Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch

Imagine biting into a slice of freshly made pizza, where the crust is perfectly golden and crispy, the sauce is rich and savory, and the cheese is deliciously melty. Now, imagine that you can create this masterpiece in your very own kitchen using an air fryer. Welcome to the world of Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch! This recipe is not only simple but also provides a delightful way to enjoy pizza without the fuss of traditional baking methods. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can impress your family and friends with a homemade pizza that tastes as good as it looks.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to love making Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick. The air fryer cooks the pizza to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in a conventional oven. You’ll also appreciate the healthier cooking method that uses less oil while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Plus, the beauty of making pizza from scratch is that you can customize it to suit your taste—whether you prefer classic pepperoni, a veggie-loaded delight, or a unique combination of toppings, the choice is yours. And let’s not forget the fun of involving family members in the process, creating a delicious meal together.

The Essentials

To make your Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup warm water (not hot)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
• 18 to 20 slices of pepperoni

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you dive into making your pizza, ensure you have the following kitchen gear:

• Air Fryer – Choose one with a basket that fits your pizza size.
• Mixing Bowl – For combining your dough ingredients.
• Rolling Pin – To roll out your pizza dough to the desired thickness.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy is key for the best results.
• Spatula – To help transfer the pizza in and out of the air fryer.

Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch: How It’s Done

Creating your Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch is a straightforward process that yields mouthwatering results. Follow these steps to make your delicious pizza:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the surface of the water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Make the Pizza Dough

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and place it on a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to your desired thickness, keeping in mind that thinner crusts will be crispier.

Step 6: Assemble the Pizza

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper. Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of shredded gouda cheese on top, followed by the 18 to 20 slices of pepperoni.

Step 7: Cook the Pizza

Carefully lift the parchment paper with the pizza and place it in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

After cooking, carefully remove the pizza from the air fryer. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings!

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking to customize your pizza or substitute ingredients, consider the following alternatives:

• Gluten-free flour for a gluten-free crust.
• Store-bought pizza sauce for convenience.
• Fresh vegetables instead of pepperoni for a veggie pizza.
• Vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

When making Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch, you might encounter a few common issues. Here’s how to fix them:

• Dough is too sticky: Add a little extra flour while kneading until the dough is manageable.
• Pizza is burnt on the bottom: Reduce the cooking time or check the pizza halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Sauce makes the crust soggy: Use less sauce or spread it thinly to prevent excess moisture.
• Cheese isn’t melting properly: Consider using fresh cheese or a blend of cheeses for better melting.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Air Fryer Pizza fresh and delicious, consider the following tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the slices back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispiness. You can also freeze the uncooked dough for later use—just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out and adding toppings.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using it. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the pizza in a conventional oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Can I use other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Some popular options include bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, and different meats. Just remember not to overload the pizza to ensure it cooks evenly.

How do I know when the pizza is done?

The pizza is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of cooking.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

For more delicious recipes that you can try at home, check out these favorites:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – For delightful dessert options.
• Pinch of Yum – A variety of mouthwatering meals.
• Minimalist Baker – Simple and tasty plant-based recipes.

In Closing

Making Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch is not just a fun cooking project; it’s an opportunity to create a meal that everyone will love. With its quick prep time, customizable ingredients, and healthier cooking method, you may find yourself making this pizza time and time again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this pizza is sure to become a favorite in your household. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this delicious homemade pizza experience!