Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Twists

My teenage son walked into the kitchen last weekend declaring he was starving, and I happened to have a can of pizza dough sitting on the counter from an abandoned dinner plan. Twenty minutes later, we were both standing over the air fryer watching these golden twists bubble and brown, and I knew this accidental snack was a keeper.

Last Friday night, my book club ended up talking more about these twists than the actual novel. Three people asked for the recipe before they even finished their first helping, and someone mentioned they smelled them from the hallway.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: The shortcut that makes this possible on busy weeknights, though homemade dough works beautifully too
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates those irresistible cheese pulls when you bite into a warm twist
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that balances the mild mozzarella perfectly
• Pizza sauce: Spread inside the twists and served alongside for double the flavor
• Italian herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme bring that familiar pizza shop aroma
• Melted butter and garlic: Brushed on top for that golden, restaurant style finish

Instructions

Get your air fryer ready:

Preheat to 375°F for 3 minutes while you prep everything else

Roll out the dough:

On a floured surface, stretch the pizza dough into a rectangle about 10 x 14 inches

Layer the fillings:

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

Fold and slice:

Fold the dough in half to cover the filling, press the edges together, and cut into 8 even strips

Twist and brush:

Twist each strip several times, place them in the air fryer basket, and brush tops with garlic butter

Crisp them up:

Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown and crispy all over

Save

My husband admitted he ate three of these standing up at the counter before I could even get the serving plate to the table. That is when I knew these were not just for parties anymore.

Make Them Your Own

I have tucked pepperoni slices inside the dough before twisting, and the spicy pork adds such a wonderful dimension. Chopped olives, sautéed mushrooms, or even cooked sausage crumbles work beautifully too if you want heartier twists.

Serving Suggestions

These disappear fastest when served alongside warm marinara for dipping, but ranch dressing or garlic infused olive oil are fantastic alternatives. They also make an unexpected partner to a simple green salad for a light dinner.

Storage and Reheating

While these are undeniably best fresh from the air fryer, they reheat beautifully at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes. The toaster oven works well too, bringing back most of the original crunch.

• Avoid the microwave unless you enjoy soggy bread
• Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Freeze unbaked twists on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag

Save

There is something deeply satisfying about turning a simple can of dough into something that makes people light up. These twists have become my go to for I want something comforting but do not want to try days.

Recipe FAQs

→ What temperature should I air fry the twists?

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the twists for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway for even crispiness.

→ Can I add extra fillings inside the twists?

Yes, add pepperoni slices or chopped olives before folding the dough for additional flavor and texture.

→ How do I get the twists crispy and golden?

Brushing the tops with melted garlic butter before air frying helps achieve a golden, crispy finish.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftover twists?

Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness without drying them out.

→ Are there common allergens in these twists?

They contain wheat and dairy, and possible soy traces depending on the dough and sauce brands used. Always check ingredient labels.