Air Fryer Tips & Tricks
Mastering your air fryer can transform your cooking experience, making meals quicker and often healthier. Here are some expert tips to help you maximise its potential.
Freshly updated 13 July 2026 · new tips every week
-
Reheat with a splash of water
When reheating leftovers like rice or pasta, add a tablespoon of water to keep them from drying out. The added moisture helps maintain the dish’s texture.
-
Preheat for crispier results
Though many air fryers claim preheating isn’t necessary, doing so can improve the crispiness of your food. Just run the air fryer for 3 minutes before adding your food.
-
Use foil wisely
Line the basket with foil to catch drips, but avoid covering the entire basket to maintain proper air circulation. Poke holes if needed to ensure even cooking.
-
Shake the basket
For foods like chips or small vegetables, shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a uniform crispiness.
-
Batch cook for efficiency
Prepare larger quantities of food and cook in batches. You can store extras in the fridge and reheat as needed, saving time on busy days.
-
Experiment with baking
Your air fryer can be used for more than just frying; try baking small cakes or muffins. Use silicone moulds for easy removal and even baking.
-
Adjust temperature for different foods
Not all foods require the same temperature. Reduce by 20°C if you’re converting a conventional oven recipe to ensure food is cooked evenly without burning.
-
Use a light oil spray
For a golden finish without excess oil, lightly spray your food with oil before cooking. This helps achieve a crispy texture without adding too much fat.
-
Clean regularly to prevent smoke
Residual oil and crumbs can cause smoke if not cleaned regularly. Wipe down the basket and the inside of the air fryer after each use to prevent build-up.
-
Pair with parchment paper
Use perforated parchment paper to line the basket when cooking messy or sticky foods. This prevents sticking and makes cleaning up much easier.
Ready to put these into practice?
Browse our air fryer recipes →
