Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Cheese

The air fryer sitting on my counter has become my secret weapon for everything from roasted vegetables to these impossibly crispy cheese twists. I stumbled upon this recipe during a chaotic Friday evening when my kids wanted pizza but I wanted something faster and more fun. Now they've become the most requested thing in my house, disappearing before they even hit the serving plate.

Last summer my sister came over with her three picky eaters, and I nervously put these out as an experiment. Within five minutes, every single twist was gone, and her oldest daughter was asking if we could make them for her birthday party instead of regular pizza. That's when I knew this recipe was a keeper.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: Store-bought dough works perfectly here, but feel free to use homemade if you prefer
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded, which has anti-caking agents
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that salty umami punch that makes these taste like pizzeria bread
• Pizza sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade
• Italian herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme work beautifully together
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but adds a lovely warmth
• Unsalted butter: Melted for brushing on top
• Garlic clove: Fresh minced garlic beats garlic powder any day
• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and fresh flavor

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer:

Get your air fryer heating to 375°F for about 3 minutes while you prep everything

Roll out the dough:

On a floured surface, stretch the pizza dough into roughly a 10 by 14 inch rectangle

Add the fillings:

Spread sauce over half the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, herbs, and red pepper flakes

Fold and seal:

Fold the dough in half lengthwise and press gently to seal everything inside

Slice into strips:

Cut the dough into 8 even strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter

Twist and place:

Twist each strip several times and arrange in a single layer in your air fryer basket

Prepare garlic butter:

Mix melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl

Brush and cook:

Brush each twist with garlic butter and air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway until golden

Finish and serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side

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My husband, who claims he doesn't like appetizers that require work, ate five of these straight from the air fryer basket while pretending to taste-test them for seasoning. Now whenever I make them, he hovers around the kitchen like a shark, waiting for that first batch to come out.

Making Ahead And Storage

You can assemble the twists earlier in the day and keep them refrigerated until ready to air fry. Leftovers (if you somehow have any) reheat beautifully at 350°F for just 2 to 3 minutes.

Fun Variations To Try

Sometimes I tuck pepperoni slices inside before twisting, or add chopped olives for a Mediterranean twist. My youngest daughter loves when I make dessert versions with cinnamon sugar and cream cheese instead of savory fillings.

Serving Suggestions

These twists work as an after-school snack, party appetizer, or alongside a simple salad for light dinner.

• Set up a dipping station with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli
• Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan right after they come out of the air fryer
• Pair with cold drinks or a simple green salad

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There's something magical about pulling these golden twists from the air fryer, all bubbling cheese and garlic scent. Hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade dough works wonderfully and can add extra freshness to the twists.

→ How do I prevent the twists from getting soggy?

Ensure the dough is rolled evenly and avoid overloading with sauce. Air fryer cooking crisps the twists perfectly.

→ Can I customize the filling ingredients?

Absolutely, feel free to add pepperoni, olives, or other favorite toppings to enhance flavor.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness and warmth.

→ Is it necessary to brush with garlic butter?

Brushing garlic butter adds flavor and helps achieve a golden crust, but it can be omitted if preferred.