Crispy Air Fryer Cheese Twists (Printable)

Golden cheese twists with herbs and garlic butter, air-fried for a crunchy, flavorful bite.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dough

01 - 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough

→ Cheese & Fillings

02 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1/2 cup pizza sauce, plus more for dipping
05 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
06 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Topping

07 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
08 - 1 garlic clove, minced
09 - 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# How to Make:

01 - Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 10 x 14 inches.
03 - Spread the pizza sauce evenly over half of the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the sauce.
04 - Fold the dough in half lengthwise to cover the filling. Gently press together.
05 - Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 8 strips.
06 - Twist each strip several times and place in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
07 - In a small bowl, mix melted butter and minced garlic. Brush the tops of each twist with garlic butter.
08 - Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
09 - Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

# Helpful Tips:

01 -
  • Faster than delivery and infinitely more satisfying when that craving hits
  • The crispy outside meets gooey cheese inside in a way that feels like magic
02 -
  • Work in batches if your air fryer basket is small because overlapping twists create soggy spots instead of crispy edges
  • The cheese will try to escape during twisting and that is completely normal
03 -
  • Freeze uncooked twists on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag for up to 3 months
  • Add a pinch of sugar to your garlic butter to help the exterior caramelize beautifully