Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Bombs

This air fryer pizza bomb recipe transforms ordinary refrigerated biscuit dough into irresistible cheesy pepperoni bites. The magic happens when the dough puffs up around the melty cheese filling, creating perfect two-bite appetizers that everyone gravitates toward at parties.

I created these during a last minute game night when I needed something impressive with minimal effort. My friends were fighting over the last one and now I make double batches because they disappear so quickly.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated biscuit dough: Creates a perfect pillowy exterior with minimal effort
• Pepperoni: Adds classic pizza flavor and a slight spicy kick
• Mozzarella cheese: Becomes gloriously stretchy and melty inside
• Melted butter: Ensures a golden crispy exterior
• Garlic powder: Provides savory depth without overwhelming the other flavors
• Italian seasoning: Adds authentic pizza parlor flavor
• Pizza sauce: For dipping completes the pizza experience

How To Make Air Fryer Pizza Bombs

Prepare the dough:

Take each biscuit and split it in half horizontally creating 16 thinner rounds. This ensures the perfect ratio of dough to filling and helps them cook evenly throughout.

Cut the fillings:

Quarter each pepperoni slice to create smaller pieces that distribute flavor throughout each bite. Cube the mozzarella into 16 equal portions ensuring each bomb gets an equal amount of cheese.

Assemble the bombs:

Place eight quartered pepperoni pieces and one cube of mozzarella in the center of each dough portion. The pepperoni should be arranged so they overlap slightly around the cheese.

Seal completely:

Fold the edges of the dough up and around the filling being extremely thorough with pinching the seams closed. Any gaps will allow cheese to leak out during cooking. Roll gently between your palms to form a uniform ball.

Arrange in air fryer:

Place the pizza bombs in your air fryer basket making sure to leave space between each one. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and results in uneven cooking.

Prepare butter mixture:

Whisk together melted butter garlic powder and Italian seasoning until well combined. This mixture adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden exterior.

Brush with butter:

Use a pastry brush to generously coat each dough ball with the seasoned butter mixture ensuring even coverage all around. This step is crucial for flavor and browning.

Air fry to perfection:

Cook at 175°C for 5 to 6 minutes watching closely toward the end as air fryers can vary. The bombs are done when they're puffy and golden brown with no doughy appearance.

Serve immediately:

Warm the pizza sauce and serve alongside the hot pizza bombs for dipping. The contrast between the warm bombs and slightly cooled sauce is perfect.

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Mozzarella is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered that letting the cheese come to room temperature before assembly makes a significant difference in how it melts. My daughter now requests these for her birthday every year instead of actual pizza which speaks to how addictive they become.

Make Ahead Options

These pizza bombs can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated. Simply prepare through the sealing step then place on a parchment lined tray covered with plastic wrap. When ready to cook allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes then continue with the butter coating and air frying steps. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last minute preparation.

Ingredient Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Consider these filling alternatives for different flavor profiles. Replace pepperoni with cooked Italian sausage bacon bits or diced ham. Swap mozzarella for cheddar provolone or pepper jack cheese. Add diced bell peppers onions or mushrooms sautéed until soft and cooled before assembly. For vegetarian versions use roasted vegetables olives and herbs. Remember that any wet ingredients should be well drained to prevent soggy bombs.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheese is leaking out during cooking your seams likely weren't fully sealed. Ensure you pinch the dough firmly and check for any small openings before air frying. If your bombs are browning too quickly lower the temperature by 10 degrees and extend cooking time slightly. For bombs that aren't browning enough try increasing the temperature by 10 degrees for the last minute of cooking. Finally if the centers remain doughy after the exterior is golden you likely made them too large split the dough into smaller portions next time.

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Serving Suggestions

While these pizza bombs are delicious on their own they become a complete meal when paired thoughtfully. Serve alongside a fresh green salad with Italian vinaigrette for a light lunch. Create an appetizer spread with additional dipping options like ranch pesto or garlic butter. For game day present them in a basket lined with parchment paper alongside other finger foods. They also make an excellent after school snack that kids can help prepare teaching basic cooking skills while creating something they'll be excited to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the dough from opening during air frying?

Make sure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly by pinching firmly around the filling. Rolling the dough into smooth, tight balls will also help prevent any openings during cooking.

→ Can I prepare these pizza bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dough and filling a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Brush with butter topping right before air frying.

→ Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?

Absolutely! While mozzarella creates a gooey center, you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even spicy pepper jack for a twist.

→ What temperature should my air fryer be set to?

You should set your air fryer to 175°C (350°F) for best results. Adjust timing slightly depending on your specific air fryer model.

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of biscuit dough?

Yes, homemade dough works perfectly! Just ensure it is rolled out thinly enough to wrap around the filling securely.

→ What can I serve as a dipping sauce besides pizza sauce?

Try marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a mix of melted butter and garlic for dipping. They all pair wonderfully with pizza bombs.