As I opened the fridge, the glimmer of refrigerated biscuits caught my eye, and the thought of creating something incredible struck me. To satisfy that pizza craving, I decided to whip up a batch of Air Fryer Pizza Bombs. These quick and cheesy snack delights are not only a breeze to prepare but are also customizable, making them perfect for any palate. Just a few minutes in the air fryer transform simple ingredients into crispy-on-the-outside, ooey-gooey perfection that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re looking for a party appetizer or a fun family treat, these pizza bombs have got you covered. Ready to elevate your snacking game? Let’s dive into the recipe and get those air fryer wheels turning!
Why are Air Fryer Pizza Bombs a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: These Air Fryer Pizza Bombs come together in just minutes, making them the perfect snack for busy nights or last-minute cravings.
Customizable Flavors: Easily swap out ingredients to cater to your taste—try adding fresh veggies or different meats for a unique twist!
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Whether for a family gathering or a movie night, these bombs are sure to impress everyone. Serve them with a side of pizza sauce for the ultimate experience!
Crispy Perfection: You’ll love the contrast of the flaky dough with the gooey cheese and savory filling inside, delivering comfort food in every bite.
Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the beloved flavors of pizza without the guilt, as these are a quick and satisfying snack option that won’t derail your health goals.
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs Ingredients
For the Dough
- Refrigerated Biscuits – Provides a flaky outer shell; substitute with homemade biscuit dough if you prefer a more personal touch.
For the Filling
- Pepperoni – Adds savory flavor; mini pepperoni works well too for a bite-sized twist.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Offers classic pizza goodness and gooey texture; opt for a block rather than shredded for better melting.
For the Topping & Flavoring
- Melted Butter – Enhances browning and richness; feel free to use olive oil for a lighter touch.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the dough’s flavor; fresh minced garlic can provide a more robust taste if desired.
- Italian Seasoning – Complements the pizza theme; you can skip it if you’re aiming for a different flavor profile.
For Dipping
- Pizza Sauce – A must-have for dipping; tomato sauce or marinara can substitute if you’re in a pinch!
Enjoy whipping up these Air Fryer Pizza Bombs for a quick and delicious snack that will delight friends and family alike!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures your Air Fryer Pizza Bombs will cook evenly, becoming beautifully golden and crispy on the outside. While the air fryer heats up, gather your ingredients and get ready for the delicious magic ahead.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and carefully separate each biscuit into two thin pieces. You should now have a total of 16 individual pieces ready to be transformed. Use your hands to gently stretch or roll them out a bit, ensuring there’s enough room to hold all the delicious filling you’ll be adding later.
Step 3: Add the Pepperoni
Cut your pepperoni slices into quarters and place 8 pieces in the center of each biscuit. Gently lay the pepperoni in a neat stack, allowing it to span most of the biscuit without overfilling. This flavorful layer will form the heart of your Air Fryer Pizza Bombs that will bring those savory pizza flavors to life.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Next, chop the mozzarella cheese into small cubes and set one cube atop the pepperoni in each biscuit piece. This cheesy addition will melt beautifully during air frying, creating that irresistible ooey-gooey center every pizza lover dreams of. Ensure each bomb has enough cheese to achieve maximum melty goodness.
Step 5: Seal the Bombs
Gently fold the edges of each biscuit piece to completely seal in the pepperoni and cheese. Roll them into balls, pinching the seams to ensure no filling escapes while cooking. You want these Air Fryer Pizza Bombs tightly sealed for the ultimate flavor experience.
Step 6: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Lay the sealed pizza bombs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving enough space between each one to allow for expansion. This will help ensure they cook evenly and achieve that delightful crispiness. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on your air fryer size.
Step 7: Brush with Flavor
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the tops of the pizza bombs, enhancing both taste and browning. This step is key to achieving a delicious, golden crust reminiscent of your favorite pizza.
Step 8: Air Fry to Perfection
Carefully place the basket in the preheated air fryer and cook the pizza bombs for 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them, checking for doneness before removing them, as each air fryer may differ slightly in cooking times.
Step 9: Serve with Sauce
Once cooked to perfection, remove the pizza bombs from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a minute. Warm up your pizza sauce in a small pot or microwave, and serve it alongside for dipping. Dive into these Air Fryer Pizza Bombs and relish every savory bite!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Pizza Bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy them later, freeze the cooled pizza bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, air fry frozen pizza bombs at 325°F (163°C) for about 6-8 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Enjoy Freshness: For the best texture, always store these pizza bombs sealed tightly to prevent drying out, ensuring you savor that gooey goodness with every bite!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
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Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure mozzarella is at room temperature before use; cold cheese may result in uneven melting and a less gooey center.
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Avoid Overfilling: Don’t pack the biscuits too tightly with pepperoni and cheese, as this will help prevent any filling from leaking during the cooking process.
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Seal Tight: Make sure to pinch and roll the edges of the biscuit dough securely; a good seal keeps the flavor inside while cooking your delicious Air Fryer Pizza Bombs.
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Choose the Right Biscuits: For the best results, opt for “Grands!” flaky layers biscuits. Their size and texture create the perfect outer shell for your pizza bombs.
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Check for Doneness: Since air fryers can vary, keep an eye on the bombs in the last couple of minutes of cooking for that perfect golden brown finish.
Variations & Substitutions for Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
Feel free to get creative with your Air Fryer Pizza Bombs—each twist adds a delightful touch to this already scrumptious treat!
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Veggie-Loaded: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a fresh and colorful filling. Sauté them first to soften and enhance flavor.
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Cheesy Delight: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack to add a spicy kick. Each cheese will bring its unique character to the pizza bombs.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a fiery flavor boost. These additions will satiate your cravings for heat while complementing the savory filling.
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Meat Lovers: Experiment with cooked sausage, ham, or even bacon bits instead of pepperoni. Varied meats can create a rich and hearty experience for your taste buds.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free biscuit and plant-based cheese to make these bombs a great option for lactose-intolerant friends.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or oregano to the filling for an extra punch of flavor. This will transport your pizza bombs into gourmet territory.
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Sweet Twist: Try filling them with Nutella or fruit preserves for a dessert-style version. Serve with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
For even more fun ideas, consider bringing in elements from other favorites; think about pairing with a side of pizza sauce or trying them alongside homemade ranch for dipping. Enjoy every delicious bite!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
Ready to impress your family and friends? Pair these delightful snacks with the perfect sides and drinks to create a memorable meal.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy, garlic-infused bread complements the cheesy pizza bombs while adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Caesar Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad dressed in creamy Caesar dressing adds a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the bombs.
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Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies such as carrots and bell peppers serve as a colorful, healthy contrast to the savory pizza indulgence.
Gather your family around to enjoy these delicious sides alongside your Air Fryer Pizza Bombs—the combination will make your dinner table come alive!
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Craft Beer: An ice-cold craft beer, with its hoppy notes, beautifully pairs with the savory elements, enhancing your snack experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, classic chocolate chip cookies provide a comforting hint of nostalgia to this delightful snack spread.
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Homemade Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dips perfectly balance the gooey flavors of the pizza bombs, making every bite a flavor sensation.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon cleanses the palate, allowing you to savor the flavors fully.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Pizza Bombs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and assemble the bombs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first five steps of the recipe, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also ensures the dough stays fresh. When you’re ready to serve, brush them with the butter mixture and air fry directly from the fridge—just allow a minute or two extra in the cooking time. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy warm, melty pizza goodness with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of biscuits should I use?
I recommend using “Grands!” flaky layers biscuits for the best results. Their size and texture create the perfect outer shell, allowing the pizza bombs to bake beautifully, turning crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
How can I ensure my mozzarella melts perfectly?
For an ooey-gooey center, make sure your mozzarella is at room temperature before you chop it into cubes. Cold cheese may not melt as thoroughly, which can lead to a less satisfying bite.
How do I store leftover pizza bombs?
Store leftover Air Fryer Pizza Bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful, so you can enjoy them again as a quick snack or appetizer!
Can I freeze pizza bombs for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cooked pizza bombs to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For reheating, simply air fry directly from frozen at 325°F (163°C) for about 6-8 minutes, until they are heated through and crispy again.
What if my pizza bombs leak during cooking?
This can happen if they are overfilled. Be careful not to pack too much filling into each biscuit. It’s important to pinch and roll the edges securely to create a tight seal. A good seal will help keep all the delicious flavors locked inside while cooking!
Can I make these pizza bombs for my kids?
Absolutely! These pizza bombs are a kid-friendly snack. However, be mindful of any allergies, particularly with cheese and pepperoni. You can also customize the filling, opting for ingredients your kids love, such as different cheeses or veggie options.
Air Fryer Pizza Bombs: Quick Cheesy Goodness in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Open the can of biscuits and separate each into two thin pieces.
- Cut pepperoni into quarters and add 8 pieces to the center of each biscuit.
- Chop mozzarella cheese into small cubes and place one cube atop the pepperoni in each biscuit.
- Fold the edges of each biscuit piece to seal in the filling, rolling into balls.
- Arrange the sealed bombs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Whisk together melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning and brush over the tops of the pizza bombs.
- Air fry the pizza bombs for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from air fryer and allow to cool for a minute. Serve with warmed pizza sauce.
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