Air Fryer Pizza: Crispy, Delicious, and Easy!

Let's be honest, who doesn't love a good pizza? It's the ultimate comfort food, the perfect meal for a casual get-together, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. But sometimes, firing up the oven, preheating it, and waiting for the perfect bake just seems like too much effort. And sometimes, even a takeaway pizza doesn't hit the spot. That's where the air fryer comes in. This kitchen gadget has become a real hero in my kitchen, and for good reason. It's a fantastic way to cook up a variety of dishes quickly and easily, and trust me, air fryer pizza is a game-changer.

I've always been a bit of a pizza aficionado. I've tried all sorts of different ways to make it at home, from using a cast-iron skillet to experimenting with stone baking. But nothing compares to the crispy, delicious goodness of an air fryer pizza. It’s quicker than using an oven and results in a wonderfully crispy crust with a fantastic texture. I'm going to share everything I've learned about making the perfect air fryer pizza, from choosing the right dough to topping it with your favourite ingredients. So, grab your air fryer and let's get cooking!

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Dough

The first step to making a great air fryer pizza is choosing the right dough. You can certainly buy pre-made pizza dough at the supermarket, and they’ve come a long way in recent years. But I'm a big believer in making things from scratch when you can. It's surprisingly easy and really adds a sense of accomplishment.

Homemade Pizza Dough

Here's a simple recipe for homemade pizza dough that’s perfect for air fryer pizza. The key is using a high-protein flour, like bread flour, which gives the dough a nice chewy texture.

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (105–115°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 1/2 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes, until foamy. This is a good sign that your yeast is active and ready to do its work.
• Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, and mix until a dough forms. It will be sticky at first, but don't worry, it will come together.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the dough its structure and chewiness.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven with the light on is a great place to let the dough rise.

Now, you might be thinking, "Kneading for 5-7 minutes? That sounds like a lot of work!" But honestly, it’s not that bad. You can even get a stand mixer to do the work for you. There are plenty of recipes online that use a stand mixer. I find that the extra effort of kneading by hand results in a better texture.

Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into a pizza.

Ready-Made Pizza Dough

If you’re pressed for time, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with using pre-made pizza dough. Just be sure to check the instructions on the packaging for how to prepare it. Most ready-made doughs come frozen and need to be thawed and lightly floured before you use them.

I like to let my frozen pizza dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gives it time to thaw slowly and evenly, which makes it easier to work with. You can also thaw it at room temperature, but it can take a bit longer.

(Part 2) Shaping the Dough

Now that you've got your dough, it's time to shape it into a pizza. This may seem intimidating at first, but I promise it's easier than you think. It's best to aim for a thin crust for air fryer pizza.

First, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and gently press the dough into a circular shape. If you're using pre-made dough, you can usually shape it with your hands. If you’re making your own dough, you might want to use a rolling pin. The key is to get the dough to about the size of the bottom of your air fryer basket. You can always trim away excess dough after you shape it.

If you’re really struggling to get the dough into the right shape, don’t fret. You can also use a pizza pan or a baking sheet to create your pizza. Just be sure that the pan or sheet fits in the air fryer basket. You might find that a slightly thicker crust works better in this case.

(Part 3) Preheating the Air Fryer

Before you start making your pizza, it's important to preheat your air fryer. This ensures that the crust cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy texture we're all after.

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat it for 5 minutes. This will help to ensure that the air fryer is nice and hot, which is important for getting that crispy crust. While the air fryer is preheating, you can start preparing your sauce and toppings.

(Part 4) Adding the Sauce

One of the great things about air fryer pizza is that you can customize it with your favourite toppings. But before you start piling them on, you’ll need to add a base sauce.

Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is the classic pizza base. It’s a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that complements the flavours of the cheese and toppings. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own. Here's a simple recipe for homemade tomato sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

• Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The onions should turn translucent and the garlic should be fragrant.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until thickened. This will help to develop the flavour of the sauce.

White Sauce

If you're not a fan of tomato sauce, you can also use a white sauce. White sauce is a creamy and flavorful base for pizza. It’s made with a mixture of milk, butter, and flour. It's often flavored with garlic and herbs. You can also use a store-bought white sauce or find many recipes online. I like to use a white sauce with a touch of lemon zest for a bit of brightness.

(Part 5) Adding the Cheese

The cheese is the star of the show when it comes to pizza. There’s nothing more satisfying than a gooey, melted cheese topping. I like to use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. However, the possibilities are endless.

Here are a few popular cheese choices for air fryer pizza:

• Mozzarella: A classic choice that melts beautifully and provides a stretchy, gooey texture. This is the workhorse cheese of the pizza world.
• Provolone: This cheese adds a bit of tang and richness to the pizza. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a slightly firmer cheese.
• Parmesan: Adds a salty and nutty flavour to your pizza, and it’s particularly good sprinkled on top as a final touch. It adds a bit of sophistication to your pizza.
• Cheddar: For a more intense flavour, try cheddar cheese. It's a bit more assertive than other cheeses, so it’s a good choice for those who like a strong flavour.
• Pepper Jack: This spicy cheese is a good option for those who like a little heat in their pizza. It adds a nice kick to your pizza.

I like to use a combination of mozzarella and provolone for my air fryer pizza. The mozzarella provides the gooey stretch, while the provolone adds a bit of tang and richness. I then sprinkle on a little Parmesan for a final touch.

(Part 6) Adding the Toppings

This is where things get really fun. There are so many toppings to choose from, so don't be afraid to get creative!

Classic Toppings

• Pepperoni: A classic pizza topping that never disappoints. The salty, spicy flavour of pepperoni is a perfect complement to the cheese and sauce.
• Sausage: italian sausage is a common choice for pizza, but you can also use chorizo, or even ground beef. Sausage adds a savory flavour and a bit of meatiness to your pizza.
• Mushrooms: A great source of flavour and texture. I like to use a mix of button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, and portobello mushrooms. Mushrooms add a earthy flavour and a satisfying bite to your pizza.
• Onions: Red onions are a popular choice for pizza because they add a sharp, sweet flavour. They also add a nice crunch to your pizza.
• Green peppers: A crunchy and refreshing topping that adds a bit of colour to your pizza. They also add a bit of sweetness and a slightly tart flavour to your pizza.

More Adventurous Toppings

If you’re looking to experiment, there are so many other toppings to try. These will add a unique twist to your air fryer pizza.

• Pineapple: It’s a divisive topping, but if you like it, try it! I think it's great when it’s combined with ham for a Hawaiian pizza.
• Chicken: grilled chicken or shredded chicken is a great addition to pizza. It adds a protein boost and a satisfying flavour.
• Bacon: crispy bacon is always a crowd-pleaser. The salty and smoky flavour of bacon is a delicious addition to any pizza.
• artichoke hearts: These are a great addition for a Mediterranean-inspired pizza. They add a slightly tangy and earthy flavour to your pizza.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and squash are all delicious on pizza. They add a sweetness and depth of flavour to your pizza.

(Part 7) Cooking the Pizza

You’re ready to cook! Place your pizza in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring that it’s not touching the sides of the basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

I like to check my pizza halfway through cooking and rotate it 180 degrees to ensure that it cooks evenly. You can also lift the pizza up a few times to see if the crust is browning nicely. If it’s not, you may need to cook it for a little longer. But keep an eye on it, you don’t want to overcook it.

The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your pizza and the power of your air fryer. If you’re using a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the pizza in batches.

Once your pizza is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer basket using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. It's best to serve your air fryer pizza immediately, so the cheese stays nice and gooey.

(Part 8) Air Fryer Pizza Hacks

There are a few tricks to make your air fryer pizza even better:

Use Parchment Paper

Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent the pizza from sticking. This will also make it easier to remove the pizza from the basket once it’s cooked. If you’re not using parchment paper, be sure to spray the basket with a non-stick cooking spray.

If you’re using parchment paper, make sure that it’s big enough to cover the entire bottom of the air fryer basket. You may need to trim the parchment paper if it’s too large.

Use a Pizza Stone

You can also place a pizza stone in the air fryer to help the crust cook more evenly. Just be sure that the pizza stone fits in the basket. You can also find air fryer pizza pans online, which are specifically designed for making pizza in an air fryer.

Using a pizza stone or a pizza pan can help to create a crispier crust. This is because the stone or pan absorbs heat and transfers it evenly to the pizza.

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer

If you’re making a large pizza, you may need to cook it in batches. This is especially true if you’re using a smaller air fryer. If your air fryer is overcrowded, your pizza won’t cook evenly. The crust may not get crispy, and the cheese may not melt properly.

I find that it’s best to cook two pizzas at a time in my air fryer. This gives the pizzas enough space to cook evenly.

(Part 9) Air Fryer Pizza Variations

Air fryer pizza is incredibly versatile. There are many different variations to try, all of which are incredibly easy to make in your air fryer.

Calzones

Instead of spreading the dough flat, you can fold it in half to make a calzone. Fill it with your favourite pizza toppings and cook for 10-12 minutes. You can even brush the calzone with a little egg wash before cooking for a golden brown crust.

Pizza Rolls

You can also use the air fryer to make pizza rolls. Simply roll out the dough and cut it into small squares. Add your favourite toppings, then roll them up and cook for 5-7 minutes. These are a great way to use up leftover pizza dough and make a fun and easy snack.

Breadsticks

If you're feeling adventurous, try making breadsticks in your air fryer. Simply roll out the dough into long strips, brush them with olive oil, and sprinkle with herbs or spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. These are a delicious and easy side dish for your air fryer pizza.

Flatbread

You can use the air fryer to make flatbread. Simply roll out the dough into a thin circle and cook for 3-5 minutes. Top it with your favourite toppings, and enjoy. This is a great way to make a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

(Part 10) FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about air fryer pizza:

1. Can I use frozen pizza dough in an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can use frozen pizza dough in an air fryer. Just be sure to thaw it completely before using it. I recommend letting the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This will help to ensure that it’s evenly thawed and easy to work with. You can also defrost frozen pizza dough at room temperature, but this can take a bit longer.

2. What temperature should I cook my air fryer pizza at?

The best temperature for cooking air fryer pizza is 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help to ensure that the crust cooks evenly and gets crispy. However, you may need to adjust the temperature slightly depending on the size and power of your air fryer. If your air fryer is too hot, the crust may burn before the cheese melts. If your air fryer is too cool, the pizza may not cook through properly.

3. How long should I cook my air fryer pizza?

The cooking time for air fryer pizza will vary depending on the size and power of your air fryer, as well as the thickness of the dough and the amount of toppings you're using. I generally cook my air fryer pizza for 8-10 minutes. However, it's always a good idea to check the pizza after 5 minutes to see how it's browning. If it's not browning enough, you can cook it for a few more minutes. Be careful not to overcook the pizza, as it will become dry and hard. Once the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly, your pizza is ready!

4. What are some of the best air fryer pizza recipes?

There are endless possibilities when it comes to air fryer pizza recipes. Some of my favourites include:

• Pepperoni Pizza: A classic pizza topping that never disappoints.
• Margherita Pizza: A simple and delicious pizza made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
• Hawaiian Pizza: A sweet and savory pizza topped with ham, pineapple, and mozzarella cheese.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza: A flavourful pizza topped with barbecue sauce, chicken, red onion, and mozzarella cheese.

You can find many more air fryer pizza recipes online. I encourage you to experiment and find your favourite combinations.

5. What are the best air fryers for making pizza?

There are many different air fryers on the market, and the best one for making pizza will depend on your needs and budget. However, some of the best air fryers for making pizza include:

When choosing an air fryer for making pizza, it's important to consider the size of the air fryer and the features it offers. Look for an air fryer with a large enough capacity to fit your pizza, and with features such as a timer and a digital display. You'll also want to make sure that the air fryer has a good temperature control, as this is important for cooking the pizza evenly.

I hope this guide has inspired you to try making your own air fryer pizza! It’s truly one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy pizza at home. It’s so much fun experimenting with different toppings and combinations. So, get creative and have fun with it!