There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm, crispy bite of a pizza roll, especially when it’s fresh from the air fryer. Perfect for after-school snacks, movie nights, quick lunches, or weekend gatherings, these air fryer pizza rolls bring together convenience and irresistible crunch. The inspiration for this recipe comes from busy weeknights when a satisfying, no-fuss option is exactly what everyone needs. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can transform simple pizza rolls into a golden, flavorful treat that tastes homemade.

This recipe builds on that nostalgic love for classic pizza rolls while elevating them with a perfectly crisp exterior and melty, savory filling. Whether you’re making these for yourself or feeding a crowd, this guide ensures every batch turns out reliably crunchy and delicious.

Why Air Fryer Pizza Rolls Are a Game Changer

Air fryers have completely changed the way many home cooks prepare quick snacks. Instead of waiting for an oven to preheat or settling for a soggy microwave version, pizza rolls become consistently crunchy every single time with almost no effort. The circulating hot air creates that perfect golden texture while keeping the filling warm and flavorful.

These pizza rolls offer versatility as well—you can make classic cheese rolls, veggie-filled rolls, or even turkey-pepperoni variations. They are customizable, fun to serve, and easy to pair with dipping sauces like marinara, garlic dipping sauce, or herb-infused olive oil alternatives.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

This recipe uses simple ingredients and provides exact measurements so you can easily scale it up or down.

• 2 cups (240 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup (250 g) marinara sauce

• 1 cup (140 g) diced turkey pepperoni or your favorite non-pork pizza protein

• 1 cup (130 g) diced bell peppers (any color)

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil

• 20 small wonton wrappers or egg roll wrappers cut into squares

• 1 teaspoon (2.5 g) dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon (2.5 g) dried basil

• 1 teaspoon (2.5 g) garlic powder

• 1 egg (for sealing the edges)

These ingredients blend together to create crispy, flavorful pizza rolls that taste like they came straight from a pizzeria.

Directions

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that each pizza roll cooks evenly from the moment it enters the basket. By heating the air fryer in advance, the circulating hot air immediately begins crisping the outer layer, which creates the signature crunchy texture that makes air-fried snacks so appealing. If the air fryer is not fully preheated, the wrappers may soften before browning, which can lead to uneven texture or sogginess. Allow the machine to run empty for 3–5 minutes, similar to how you would preheat a standard oven, so the temperature stabilizes properly.

Prepare the Filling Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, diced turkey pepperoni, diced bell peppers, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients blend into a cohesive mixture. Each scoop should offer a balanced combination of cheese, vegetables, spices, and sauce. Ensure the mixture is not too watery; excess liquid can make the wrappers difficult to seal. If it appears overly loose, simply add a small handful of mozzarella to thicken it. A well-balanced filling creates consistent results and prevents leaks during cooking.

Fill the Wonton Wrappers

Lay one wonton wrapper on a clean, dry surface. Keep the remaining wrappers covered with a lightly dampened towel to prevent them from drying out. Place 1 tablespoon of the filling directly in the center of the wrapper. This amount is intentional: overfilling increases the risk of bursting, while underfilling leaves the rolls too dough-heavy. Center the filling neatly to ensure even folding. For larger wrappers, you may increase the filling slightly while still leaving enough space to seal the edges properly.

Seal the Edges Securely

Brush the edges of the wrapper with a thin layer of whisked egg, which acts as the adhesive that bonds the wrapper together. You can use a small pastry brush or your fingertip for this step. Fold the wrapper into your preferred shape—triangle, rectangle, or roll—making sure to press out any air pockets surrounding the filling. Air pockets expand during cooking and can cause splitting. Seal all edges firmly with your fingers, pressing each seam tight to prevent leaks. A strong seal is crucial because even a small opening can allow filling to escape.

Repeat the Rolling Process

Continue filling and sealing each wrapper until all the filling has been used. Place the completed rolls on a parchment-lined tray as you work. If your environment is warm or dry, loosely cover the assembled rolls with a damp towel to prevent the wrappers from becoming brittle. Consistency in size and shape helps the rolls cook evenly inside the air fryer, so take your time to shape each one neatly. This step also helps make the cooking process more efficient, especially if preparing a large batch.

Brush with Olive Oil

Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil to enhance browning and crispness. Use only a thin coat; too much oil can make the rolls overly greasy or cause the air fryer to smoke. This light brushing helps the wrappers develop a beautiful golden color and a delicate crunch. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the oil, but the finished rolls will have a softer exterior.

Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the pizza rolls in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping or stacking them, as this prevents proper air circulation. Adequate spacing allows the hot air to reach every surface of the wrappers, ensuring they crisp uniformly on all sides. If you’re making more rolls than the basket can comfortably hold, cook them in separate batches rather than crowding the basket. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and inconsistent texture.

Cook and Flip for Even Crisping

Cook the pizza rolls for 6–8 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Turning the rolls ensures both sides achieve the same level of crispness and prevents flattening on the side resting against the basket. Start checking them around the 6-minute mark, since air fryer performance varies slightly by model. The rolls should appear golden, firm, and lightly blistered when they are done. If you prefer a deeper crunch, you may add an extra minute or two.

Cool and Serve

Remove the rolls from the air fryer once they reach a crisp, golden finish. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. This short cooling period lets the filling settle and thicken, reducing the risk of burns and improving the eating experience. The wrappers also firm further as they cool slightly, giving you that perfect crispy bite. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Getting the Perfect Crunch

• Avoid overfilling the wrappers to keep them from bursting.

• Make sure to seal edges completely.

• Lightly brushing the exterior with olive oil creates a more even browning.

• Every air fryer is slightly different—adjust the time by 1–2 minutes if needed.

• Serve immediately for the crispiest bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

1. Can I make these pizza rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the rolls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before air frying. If you prefer to prepare them days ahead, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, place them directly into the air fryer—no thawing required. You may need to add 1–2 minutes to the cooking time to ensure even heating. This make-ahead method is ideal for busy schedules or party prep.

2. How do I prevent my pizza rolls from bursting?

Pizza rolls burst when the filling becomes too hot too quickly or when the wrapper isn’t sealed properly. To avoid this, ensure the edges are fully sealed with egg wash and avoid overstuffing. Also, leaving a small amount of space between rolls in the air fryer promotes proper air circulation. Another trick is to lightly pierce the top with a toothpick before cooking—this allows steam to escape without compromising the texture.

3. What dipping sauces pair best with air fryer pizza rolls?

Marinara is the classic choice, but there are great alternatives. A creamy ranch-style dip offers contrast, while basil pesto adds vibrant, herbaceous notes. A garlic yogurt dip also works beautifully and keeps the meal light. If you prefer a spicier option, consider a chili-infused tomato sauce. The versatility of pizza rolls allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles based on your preference or the occasion.

4. Can I make these pizza rolls vegetarian?

Yes. To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the turkey pepperoni and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, onions, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use plant-based cheese or protein alternatives if desired. The cooking method and timing remain the same. With so many ways to customize the filling, vegetarian pizza rolls can be just as hearty and flavorful as traditional variations.

Final Thoughts

Air fryers offer an incredible way to transform simple ingredients into something remarkably satisfying, and these air fryer pizza rolls are no exception. What makes them truly special is how approachable and customizable they are. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, feeding hungry kids, or simply craving a quick snack, this recipe consistently delivers crisp, golden perfection with minimal effort.

Creating your own pizza rolls also allows you to control the ingredients, choose healthier options, and enjoy a fresher, more flavorful bite compared to store-bought varieties. With endless possibilities for fillings and dips, each batch can be tailored to your tastes or seasonal ingredients. The air fryer does most of the work, offering a fast, efficient cooking method that avoids the greasiness of frying and the long wait times associated with ovens.

The best part is how satisfying the results are—every bite captures the essence of pizza in a compact, crunchy package. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again. It’s an excellent way to elevate an everyday snack into something memorable, delicious, and effortlessly enjoyable.

Michelle Davis