Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is not only fast and convenient, but it also results in that perfect combination of crispy and gooey that every pizza roll lover craves. The air fryer, known for its ability to produce fried-like results with less oil, has revolutionized how we prepare frozen snacks, including pizza rolls. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack for yourself or serving friends at a gathering, learning how to cook pizza rolls to perfection is key.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the exact cook time and temperatures needed for various types of pizza rolls, as well as answer common questions and provide tips to help you master the art of air frying.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Pizza Rolls?
First, let’s talk about why pizza rolls and air fryers are a match made in snack heaven. Traditionally, pizza rolls are either baked in an oven or microwaved. However, both methods have their downsides. Baking takes longer, requiring you to preheat the oven and wait for about 15–20 minutes for the rolls to be ready. Microwaving, while fast, often leaves pizza rolls soggy rather than crispy.
With an air fryer, you get the best of both worlds—quick cooking times with a crispy exterior and gooey interior. Because air fryers use hot air circulation rather than submerging food in oil, they’re also a healthier option.
The Perfect Cooking Time for Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
The general rule of thumb for cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is 6–10 minutes at 375°F to 400°F. Depending on the brand and how crispy you want your pizza rolls, you can adjust the time within that range. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- 6–8 minutes at 380°F: This is the optimal temperature and time for most frozen pizza rolls, giving you a crispy outer layer with a perfectly cooked center.
- 7–9 minutes at 400°F: If you like your pizza rolls extra crispy, cooking them at 400°F for an extra minute or two will achieve that crunch you love.
- 5–7 minutes at 375°F: For a softer texture with a slight crisp, cook at a lower temperature. This is also a good option if you’re trying out different brands or homemade pizza rolls.
Every air fryer is different, so it’s essential to test and adjust cooking times as needed. Make sure to check your pizza rolls after the initial 6 minutes to see if they’re done. Always shake the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Interested in more air fryer snack ideas? Try these delicious loaded fries for your next gathering!
Temperature Settings: Best Practices for Cooking Pizza Rolls
Now that we’ve covered the cooking times, let’s discuss temperature. Temperature settings play a crucial role in how your pizza rolls turn out. Using the right heat can mean the difference between a crispy, golden brown snack and a soggy or burnt disappointment.
The best temperature range for pizza rolls is between 375°F and 400°F. Here’s why:
- 375°F: Cooking at this lower temperature ensures the inside of the pizza rolls cooks evenly without burning the outside. This setting works particularly well for homemade pizza rolls or when cooking a larger batch.
- 400°F: For those who prefer a crunchier exterior, cooking at this higher temperature is ideal. The pizza rolls will cook faster, and you’ll achieve that satisfying crispy bite. However, be cautious as higher temperatures can cause the rolls to burst if overcooked.
Should You Preheat the Air Fryer?
While some air fryer models benefit from preheating, it’s not always necessary when cooking pizza rolls. Preheating can help reduce overall cook time and may lead to more even cooking, but pizza rolls can be placed directly in the basket without preheating, especially if you plan to shake them halfway through.
Experiment with your air fryer to see if preheating makes a difference for you. If your air fryer tends to run cool, preheating for 3–5 minutes at the desired cooking temperature can help achieve better results.
Curious about how air fryers work with desserts? Check out this indulgent Strawberry Earthquake Cake for a sweet treat after your pizza rolls.
Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
If you’re new to using an air fryer or simply want to perfect your pizza rolls, follow this step-by-step guide:
- Preheat (Optional): Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for about 3–5 minutes if your air fryer model requires it.
- Arrange Pizza Rolls: Place your frozen pizza rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent them from cooking evenly.
- Set the Timer: Set the cooking time to 6–8 minutes at 380°F. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get evenly crispy.
- Check for Doneness: After the timer goes off, check your pizza rolls. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a gooey filling. If they need more time, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the pizza rolls and allow them to cool for a minute before serving. The inside will be hot!
- Enjoy with Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any dipping sauce of your choice.
How to Prevent Pizza Rolls from Exploding in the Air Fryer
One of the most common issues people face when cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is that they can sometimes burst open, spilling their contents. While this won’t ruin your snack, it can make for a messy air fryer basket. Here are a few tips to help prevent this:
- Don’t Overcook: One of the main causes of bursting is cooking the pizza rolls for too long. Be sure to follow the recommended cook times and adjust based on your air fryer.
- Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures that the heat distributes evenly. This reduces the chance of hot spots that can cause the rolls to burst.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When the pizza rolls are too close together, the air can’t circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking. Always cook in a single layer for the best results.
Different Types of Pizza Rolls You Can Make in an Air Fryer
While store-bought frozen pizza rolls are convenient, you can also get creative with homemade versions. The air fryer’s versatility allows you to experiment with various pizza roll flavors and fillings. Here are a few ideas:
- Basic Frozen Pizza Rolls: The classic go-to option for a quick snack. Just follow the instructions above for perfect results every time.
- Homemade Pizza Rolls: If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own pizza rolls from scratch. Fill them with your favorite ingredients—mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage, or even veggies. You can use wonton wrappers or homemade dough for the outer layer.
- Flavored Pizza Rolls: Want to take your pizza rolls to the next level? After cooking, toss them in garlic butter or sprinkle Parmesan cheese over them. For a spicy twist, drizzle them with hot sauce or dip them in buffalo sauce.
Try experimenting with savory snacks like hot honey pizza to complement your pizza rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
Even though cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is straightforward, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Basket: This is one of the biggest mistakes people make. If you fill the basket too full, the air won’t circulate properly, and the pizza rolls will cook unevenly. Always cook in a single layer.
- Not Shaking the Basket: Failing to shake the basket halfway through can result in one side of the pizza rolls being crisp while the other side is soft. Make it a habit to shake the basket at least once during cooking.
- Incorrect Temperature Settings: Cooking at too high of a temperature can cause the pizza rolls to burn on the outside while the inside remains cold. Similarly, cooking at too low of a temperature will leave the rolls soggy.
Reheating Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
If you have leftover pizza rolls (though we doubt you will), you can easily reheat them in the air fryer to maintain their crispy texture. Reheating in a microwave often results in soggy rolls, but the air fryer avoids this problem. Here’s how:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
- Place the leftover pizza rolls in a single layer in the basket.
- Reheat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
This method ensures that your pizza rolls stay delicious and crispy, just like when they were first cooked.
FAQs About Cooking Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer
Q: How do you prevent pizza rolls from getting soggy in the air fryer?
- To prevent sogginess, make sure you don’t overcrowd the basket, allowing proper air circulation. Also, be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking.
Q: Can you cook pizza rolls at 350°F in an air fryer?
- Yes, but it will take longer—about 8–10 minutes. At this temperature, the pizza rolls may not get as crispy as they would at a higher temperature, but they’ll still be delicious.
Q: Do you need to preheat an air fryer for pizza rolls?
- Preheating is optional but can lead to more even cooking. Some air fryers don’t require preheating, so check your model’s instructions. If you choose to preheat, do so for 3–5 minutes.
Q: How do you know when pizza rolls are done in the air fryer?
- Pizza rolls are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, with the filling heated through. If you’re unsure, carefully cut one open to check the inside.
Q: Can you cook pizza rolls with other snacks in the air fryer?
- Yes, you can cook pizza rolls alongside other frozen snacks in the air fryer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for each item, and don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic snack. With the right temperature and time, you can achieve perfectly crispy pizza rolls without the need for excessive oil or long baking times. Whether you prefer your pizza rolls soft or crunchy, the air fryer offers versatility that traditional methods can’t match.
Feel free to experiment with homemade variations or additional flavors to make your pizza rolls even more enjoyable. And don’t forget—you can reheat them just as easily for a quick snack the next day!
For more exciting air fryer recipes, like how to make a creamy and flavorful Rotel Dip, be sure to explore our collection of air fryer delights!
1 thought on “How Long Do You Cook Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer?”