
These healthy air fryer tortilla pizza rolls turn your pizza cravings into a nutritious snack or quick meal you can enjoy anytime. I started making them for family movie nights and they quickly became a favorite with both the kids and the grownups. Packed with cheesy goodness and fresh basil, these come together fast and taste indulgent without the guilt. I love serving these on busy weeknights or as a fun addition to party platters.
The first time I served these at a kids birthday party I had adults hovering in the kitchen hoping for leftovers. The irresistible flavor and simplicity just win everyone over.
Ingredients
- Tortillas: perfect for rolling and get crispy when air fried look for soft flour style not corn for best results
- Marinara sauce: brings rich Italian tomato flavor try to choose one with no added sugar and simple ingredients
- Mozzarella cheese: creates that oozy stretch pair with good quality mozzarella for best melt and taste
- Fresh basil: adds a burst of herbal freshness choose bright green leaves with no wilting
- Optional swap: swap basil for parsley or spinach for a different green twist
Instructions
- Prepare the Tortillas:
- Lay your tortillas flat on a clean surface and make sure they are soft and flexible. If needed warm them slightly in the microwave for ten seconds so they roll easily without tearing
- Add the Pizza Toppings:
- Spread a generous spoonful of marinara sauce evenly over each tortilla all the way to the edges. Layer on shredded mozzarella cheese followed by a scatter of chopped fresh basil or any green herb you prefer
- Roll Up the Tortillas:
- Starting at one edge tightly roll up each tortilla making sure the filling stays tucked inside. Pinch the seam so the rolls hold together during cooking
- Slice and Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Cut the rolled tortillas into even pieces about two to three inches wide. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket with space between each roll so the air can circulate and crisp them up
- Air Fry Until Crisp and Golden:
- Set your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the pizza rolls for about five to eight minutes. Check them halfway through and flip if desired. Bake until the outsides are crispy and the cheese is bubbling
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the rolls cool for a minute before serving so you do not burn your mouth on hot cheese. Enjoy plain or with extra marinara for dipping

One of my favorite parts of these pizza rolls is seeing how quickly they disappear during family game night. Fresh basil makes them taste extra special and reminds me of summers picking herbs in the garden with my daughter.
Storage Tips
Place leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will soften a bit as they sit but you can reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back some crisp. These are best within a day but can be frozen for up to a month and air fried straight from frozen.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use vegan cheese for plant based diets. Parsley or spinach work well instead of basil if that is what you have. Gluten free tortillas should be soft flour style for easy rolling. Avoid corn or keto style wraps as they tend to crack or become tough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a bowl of warm marinara or pesto for dipping. These also taste great alongside a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli. They are perfect for lunchboxes or as an after school snack that tastes like a treat.
Cultural and Seasonal Twists
Pizza rolls borrow from classic Italian pizza but have become their own American favorite snack. In the summer fresh garden basil makes the flavor pop. In winter you can substitute with a handful of baby spinach for a hearty green touch.
Seasonal Adaptations
Pumpkin or roasted butternut squash puree can be swirled into the sauce for autumn. Try adding roasted red peppers for extra sweetness in the summer. Use a blend of mozzarella and fontina for a richer winter version.
Success Stories
Many friends have tried this recipe when looking for a healthy after school snack and sent rave reviews about how even their picky kids grab extra servings. My husband requests them for his game day snacks and never misses the frozen versions. The ease and flavor always surprise new tasters.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Roll up and slice the pizza rolls then flash freeze them on a tray before transferring to a bag. Cook from frozen in the air fryer for an instant homemade snack. This works beautifully for busy weeks or surprise guests.

I once forgot to preheat and found my first batch less crispy than usual now I always start with a hot basket for golden perfection.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → Can I bake these tortilla pizza rolls in an oven?
Yes, place rolled tortillas on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 10-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- → What other herbs can I use instead of basil?
Parsley or spinach make excellent substitutes. Both add freshness and complement the cheesy filling well.
- → Are gluten free tortillas suitable for this dish?
Yes, use soft, flour-style gluten free tortillas for best results. Avoid stiff or corn tortillas for easier rolling.
- → How do I store leftover pizza rolls?
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Note, they may lose some crispiness.
- → Do air fryer cooking times vary?
Yes, check rolls during cooking and adjust time as needed to achieve your preferred level of crispiness.
- → Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese for a plant-based alternative that melts well.