Are you tired of the same old dinner options? Look no further! Today, we're diving into the world of air - fryer pizza, a delicious and convenient meal that combines the best of quick preparation and mouth - watering flavors. Our star ingredient here is the food processor pizza dough, a game - changer when it comes to saving time in the kitchen.
First things first, let's talk about the pizza dough. Using a food processor to make the dough is not only quick but also incredibly easy. You can throw in all the basic ingredients like flour, yeast, water, a bit of salt, and a touch of olive oil. Pulse it a few times, and in no time, you'll have a smooth and elastic dough. This dough is the perfect base for our air - fryer pizza, as it can hold up well to the high - heat cooking process of the air fryer.
Once your dough is ready, it's time to let it rise. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it sit in a warm place for about an hour. During this time, the yeast will work its magic, and the dough will double in size. This step is crucial as it gives the pizza that light and airy texture we all love.
Now, onto the toppings. The combination of cheese, garlic, and fresh basil is a classic for a reason. Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it's heating up, roll out your risen dough into a thin circle. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper that fits inside your air fryer basket.
For the sauce, you can use a simple tomato sauce or even a pesto if you're feeling adventurous. Spread a thin layer of your chosen sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Next, it's time for the cheese. Mozzarella is a great choice, but you can also mix in some Parmesan for an extra kick of flavor. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the sauce.
Garlic is another key ingredient. You can either use fresh minced garlic or garlic powder. If using fresh garlic, sauté it in a bit of olive oil until it's fragrant, then drizzle it over the cheese. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
Finally, add the fresh basil leaves. Tear them into small pieces and scatter them over the pizza. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the rich flavors of the cheese and garlic.
Carefully place the pizza, still on the parchment paper, into the preheated air fryer. Cook it for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the air fryer using tongs. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. The result is a crispy - edged, cheesy, garlicky, and basil - infused pizza that rivals any pizzeria - made pie. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad for a more balanced meal.
One of the great things about this air - fryer pizza is its versatility. You can customize the toppings according to your taste. If you're a meat lover, add some pepperoni, sausage, or bacon. For vegetarians, you can load it up with mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. The possibilities are endless.
In conclusion, this air - fryer pizza recipe with the quick and easy food processor dough is a must - try for anyone looking for a delicious and hassle - free dinner option. It's a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, and it's sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a slice of pizza heaven!