Picture this: a busy evening where dinner plans are still up in the air. Just as I was about to succumb to the easy allure of takeout, a burst of creativity struck. In mere minutes, I transformed pantry staples into a deliciously fun treat—Air Fryer Pizza Bombs! These little bites of joy come together so effortlessly that I couldn’t believe I hadn’t made them sooner.
With gooey mozzarella goo inside and crispy, golden dough encasing it, each bite is an explosion of flavor that beats any fast-food option hands down. Plus, the kids jump with excitement at the sight of them, making this recipe a surefire crowd-pleaser! The best part? You can whip them up in just 20 minutes, perfect for those hectic nights when time isn’t on your side.
So if you're looking to elevate your snack game or impress guests without breaking a sweat, follow me as I guide you through the process of making these irresistible Air Fryer Pizza Bombs!
Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
- These Air Fryer Pizza Bombs come together in just 20 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute dinner or snack option.
- The delicious combination of gooey mozzarella and savory mini pepperoni packed inside crispy dough is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Their fun shape and golden-brown appearance make them visually appealing and exciting for both kids and adults alike.
- Plus, they're incredibly versatile; feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or dips for endless variations.
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs Ingredients
• Get ready to create mouthwatering bites!
For the Dough
- Refrigerated biscuit dough – A convenient base that transforms into golden, fluffy pockets.
For the Filling
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – Use fresh cheese for an extra gooey texture.
- Mini pepperoni – Perfectly sized for stuffing, adding delightful flavor in every bite.
- Marinara sauce – This provides a rich, tangy kick; opt for your favorite brand!
For the Seasoning
- Olive oil – Helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the outside.
- Garlic powder – Adds a savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A classic herb mix that brings an extra layer of taste.
For the Topping
- Grated parmesan cheese – A finishing touch that elevates the flavor profile of your Air Fryer Pizza Bombs!
How to Make Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
-
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious golden crispiness we're after. Let it heat for about 5 minutes while you prepare the dough.
-
Flatten the refrigerated biscuit dough pieces on a clean surface. Gently press each piece into a round shape, about 3 inches across—this will hold all the tasty fillings inside!
-
Fill each dough round with a spoonful of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and a few mini pepperoni. Don’t overfill; just a generous amount should do the trick!
-
Seal the dough into balls by pulling the edges together and pinching them tight. Make sure they’re well-sealed to keep all those gooey flavors locked inside during cooking.
-
Brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil and sprinkle them with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. This will add flavor and a lovely golden color as they cook.
-
Air fry the prepared pizza bombs for about 8-10 minutes or until they're golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to achieve the perfect texture!
Optional: Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Pizza Bombs?
Imagine a cozy gathering where crispy, cheesy delights take center stage—perfect for rounding out a memorable meal.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky flavors pair beautifully, and their crunchy texture complements the soft pizza bombs.
-
Caesar Salad: A refreshing mix of crunchy romaine and creamy dressing offers a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy goodness.
-
Marinara Dipping Sauce: Extra sauce for dipping brings a tangy punch, enhancing every bite of your pizza bombs.
-
Stuffed Jalapeños: These spicy bites add a zesty kick, balancing the rich flavors of the pizza bombs with a bold kick.
-
Fresh Fruit Platter: Bright, juicy fruit provides a sweet counterbalance, cleansing the palate between those savory morsels.
-
Craft Beer: A light, crisp craft beer pairs well, cutting through the richness and adding another layer of flavor to your meal.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm cookies create a comforting finish, combining perfectly with the pizza bombs’ nostalgic vibe.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Pizza Bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick snacking!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked pizza bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Simply thaw before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This will restore their crispy texture, making them just as delightful as when first cooked.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Pizza Bombs are fantastic for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy evenings! You can prepare the dough balls filled with cheese, pepperoni, and marinara sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble them, seal tightly, and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. When it's time to enjoy, just brush them with olive oil and season them as instructed before air frying for that crispy finish. This helps maintain the gooey center while ensuring they're just as delicious as if made fresh! With these make-ahead tips, enjoy restaurant-quality snacks without the rush!
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on classic Air Fryer Pizza Bombs!
-
Vegetarian: Swap pepperoni for diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a fresh veggie-packed option. It's a great way to enjoy a lighter take!
-
Cheesy: Add a blend of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a dollop of ricotta inside for an extra creamy texture. The blend of flavors will surprise your taste buds!
-
Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for a zesty kick that ignites the palate. Each bite will have a lovely heat that lingers deliciously.
-
BBQ Chicken: Substitute the marinara sauce with BBQ sauce and use shredded rotisserie chicken to create a smoky, sweet flavor profile that’s utterly satisfying.
-
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh basil or oregano into the dough for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall taste. Fresh herbs can elevate even the simplest recipes!
-
Sausage Lovers: Replace mini pepperoni with crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier bite that delivers robust flavors. There's something about sausage that always feels indulgent!
-
Breakfast Style: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a delightful breakfast version. Perfect for a weekend brunch that everyone will enjoy!
-
Dessert Bombs: Use sweet biscuit dough and fill with chocolate chips or Nutella for a heavenly dessert treat. A dusting of powdered sugar on top will make them irresistible!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Air Fryer Pizza Bombs, ensure your biscuit dough pieces are evenly flattened to prevent uneven cooking.
- A common mistake is overfilling the dough; keep fillings modest to ensure a perfect seal and avoid leaks.
- For a gooier texture, consider using freshly shredded mozzarella cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties, as it melts better.
- Remember to preheat your air fryer to 375°F for at least 5 minutes to guarantee a crispy exterior on your pizza bombs.
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right biscuit dough for my pizza bombs?
Absolutely! When choosing biscuit dough, look for the freshest option available; check the expiration date on the can. I often opt for the flaky variety, which produces a wonderfully fluffy texture. Avoid dough with any dark spots or leaks in the packaging, as this can impact the final result.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Pizza Bombs?
Very! Store any uneaten pizza bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid unwanted moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Air Fryer Pizza Bombs for later?
Of course! To freeze your pizza bombs, first, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or air frying!
What should I do if my pizza bombs explode while cooking?
No need to worry! If your pizza bombs have burst open in the air fryer, it typically comes from overfilling. For future batches, stick to a generous teaspoon of filling and ensure they are well-sealed. If they do burst, just enjoy the tasty filling that spills out alongside your bomb!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy and gluten, so if you're cooking for someone with those allergies, consider using gluten-free biscuit dough and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always double-check the ingredient labels to ensure they're safe for your guests.
Can I customize the fillings for my pizza bombs?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to get creative with the fillings. You can add cooked vegetables, different types of cheese, or even swap out the pepperoni for sausage or veggies, depending on your dietary preferences. Just remember not to overfill; keep those delightful flavors contained!
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and let it heat for about 5 minutes.
- Flatten the refrigerated biscuit dough pieces on a clean surface, pressing into a round shape, about 3 inches across.
- Fill each dough round with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and mini pepperoni.
- Seal the dough into balls by pulling the edges together and pinching them tightly.
- Brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Air fry the pizza bombs for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Leave a Reply