Air Fryer Frozen Pizza: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook frozen pizza, yielding a crispy crust and melted cheese in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in a conventional oven. The high heat and air circulation inside an air fryer make it an ideal appliance for cooking frozen pizza. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to cook a frozen pizza in an air fryer, as well as some tips and tricks for achieving the perfect pizza.

What are the benefits of using an air fryer for frozen pizza?

There are several benefits to using an air fryer for frozen pizza. Here are some reasons why it's a great idea:

Quick and Easy

Air fryers are known for their ability to cook food quickly and efficiently. They can cook frozen pizza in a fraction of the time it takes in a conventional oven, making it a convenient option for busy individuals and families. This is because air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, providing a crispy texture without the need for excess oil.

Crispy Crust

The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air efficiently means you'll get a perfectly crispy crust on your pizza. This is a significant advantage over other cooking methods, as it ensures your pizza has that desirable crunch without becoming soggy.

Even Cooking

Air fryers cook food evenly, ensuring that your pizza is cooked through without any burnt or undercooked spots. This even cooking is achieved through the even circulation of hot air around the food.

Customization

Air fryers allow you to customize your pizza easily. You can add extra toppings, cheese, or spices to suit your taste preferences. This makes it a fun option for families or groups with varying tastes and dietary needs.

Easy to Use

Using an air fryer for frozen pizza is straightforward. Simply preheat your air fryer, prepare your frozen pizza, place it in the air fryer basket or on the wire rack, and cook according to the instructions. Most air fryers will cook frozen pizza within 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pizza.

Clean-up

Air fryers are typically easy to clean, making them a low-maintenance option for meal preparation. Simply allow the air fryer to cool down, remove any food particles, and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge. Some air fryer models even have removable, dishwasher-safe parts.

Using an air fryer for frozen pizza is a convenient, quick, and tasty option that delivers delicious results. It's an excellent way to enjoy a crispy, golden, and scrumptious pizza without the long wait times of traditional cooking methods.

What types of frozen pizza can be cooked in an air fryer?

You can cook all kinds of frozen pizza in an air fryer, from thin-crust to thick-crust and stuffed crust pizzas. Here are some popular types of frozen pizza that can be cooked in an air fryer:

Thin Crust Pizzas

Thin-crust pizzas are a great option for air frying as they cook faster and become crispy more easily. You can find various brands offering thin-crust pizzas, such as Palermo's, Totino's, and Red Baron.

Thick Crust Pizzas

Thick-crust pizzas require a bit more cooking time but are a hearty and satisfying option. You can cook thick-crust pizzas in your air fryer, but be sure to adjust the temperature and timing accordingly.

Stuffed Crust Pizzas

Stuffed crust pizzas are a fan favorite due to their cheesy goodness. When cooking stuffed crust pizzas in an air fryer, pay special attention to ensure the crust cooks thoroughly. You may need to adjust the temperature and timing to ensure the crust is cooked evenly.

Mini Pizzas or Personal Pizzas

Mini pizzas or personal pizzas, such as Ellio's rectangle pizzas or Totino's pizzas, are perfect for air frying. They fit well in most air fryer baskets and cook quickly.

Frozen French Bread Pizzas

Frozen French bread pizzas, such as Ellio's frozen pizza, can also be cooked in an air fryer. Adjust the temperature and cooking time for the best results.

Deep Dish Pizzas

Deep dish pizzas, like Red Baron's, can be cooked in an air fryer. Due to their thicker crust, you may need to adjust the temperature and cooking time to ensure even cooking.

No matter which type of frozen pizza you choose, always refer to the packaging for specific cooking instructions and adjust the settings as needed to achieve the desired level of crispiness and doneness.

How do you prepare a frozen pizza for an air fryer?

Preparing a frozen pizza in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving pizza perfection in your air fryer:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving an evenly cooked pizza with a crispy crust. Most air fryers require around 3-5 minutes to preheat. Set your air fryer temperature to 380°F (193°C), which is an ideal temperature for cooking frozen pizza. If you are using a Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven, you can skip the preheating step.

Step 2: Prepare the Frozen Pizza

Remove the frozen pizza from its packaging. Check to ensure that any toppings, such as cheese or meat, are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Place the Pizza in the Air Fryer

Carefully place the frozen pizza into the air fryer basket, ensuring that it is centred for even cooking. If your air fryer has a smaller capacity, you may need to cook the pizza in batches.

Step 4: Cook the Pizza

Set your air fryer timer according to the type of pizza you are cooking:

• Thin Crust: 8-10 minutes
• Thick Crust: 12-15 minutes
• Stuffed Crust: 12-16 minutes, checking around the 12-minute mark

For smaller personal pizzas or mini pizzas, cook for 6-8 minutes at 400°F until the pizza is hot and the cheese has melted. You can also experiment with different temperatures and times to find your preferred level of crispiness.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer, using oven mitts to avoid burns. The pizza is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, the crust is golden brown and crispy, and any toppings appear cooked through. If it needs more time, return the pizza to the air fryer for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Let It Cool and Serve

Allow the pizza to cool for 2-3 minutes after removing it from the air fryer. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice. Then, use a pizza cutter to slice the pizza into wedges, serve on a plate, and enjoy!

What temperature and time should you cook a frozen pizza in an air fryer?

There are many benefits to using an air fryer to cook frozen pizza. Air fryers cook food faster and more evenly than conventional ovens, and they can also make the pizza crust crispier. The exact temperature and time depend on the type of pizza and the model of the air fryer.

As a general rule, preheat your air fryer to around 380°F (190°C to 195°C). Then, place the frozen pizza in the air fryer and cook for 6 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the crust. For example, thin-crust pizzas typically take 8 to 10 minutes, while thick-crust pizzas may need 12 to 15 minutes. It is recommended to check on the pizza halfway through the cooking process to ensure it is cooking evenly and to determine if it needs more time.

It is also important to note that different air fryer models may have slightly different cooking times, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on the pizza and adjust the time and temperature as needed. The goal is to have a golden-brown crust and melted, bubbly cheese.

Additionally, some sources recommend preheating the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes before adding the pizza. This helps achieve a crispy crust by allowing the hot air to circulate evenly from the start of the cooking process.

How do you clean an air fryer after cooking a frozen pizza?

Once you've enjoyed your delicious air-fried pizza, it's important to clean your air fryer to maintain its longevity and performance. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Unplug and Cool Down

Start by always unplugging your air fryer after you're done cooking. Allow it to cool down completely before proceeding to clean it. This is an important safety measure.

Step 2: Disassemble Parts

Remove the basket and any detachable components. Most air fryers will have parts that you can separate for easier cleaning.

Step 3: Wash Components

Use warm, soapy water to clean the basket and tray. It's recommended to use non-abrasive sponges or cloths to avoid scratching the surfaces. You can also refer to your air fryer's user manual for specific cleaning instructions.

Step 4: Wipe Down

Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior and interior of the air fryer. Make sure to get into any nooks and crannies to remove any residual grease or food particles.

Step 5: Reassemble and Dry

Once all the parts are clean and rinsed, dry them thoroughly and reassemble your air fryer. Make sure it's completely dry before plugging it back in and using it again.

Additional Tips:

• Some air fryer models may have dishwasher-safe parts, so you can refer to the user manual to see if yours is safe to put in the dishwasher.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can damage the coating on the air fryer's surfaces.
• Regular cleaning will help maintain your air fryer and keep it in optimal condition.

Frequently asked questions