Air Fryer Ready Meals: What You Need To Know

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance that can cook a variety of foods, including ready meals. They use hot air circulation to create a crispy texture similar to deep frying, making them a great option for heating up convenience foods.

When preparing ready meals in an air fryer, it is important to check the packaging for any specific instructions or warnings. Most ready meals can be cooked in an air fryer, but meals with delicate toppings or sauces might not withstand the high heat and strong air circulation.

To cook a ready meal in an air fryer, simply preheat the appliance, remove the meal from its packaging, and place it directly into the air fryer basket. Adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed, and consider flipping or stirring the meal halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, as they require significantly less oil. They also provide faster cooking times compared to conventional ovens, making them a convenient option for busy individuals.

In summary, air fryers are a versatile and convenient way to cook ready meals, offering a crispy and tasty upgrade to soggy microwave dinners.

Air fryer ready meals: cooking times and temperatures

Air fryers are a great alternative to traditional cooking methods, and they can be used to cook ready meals. They are designed to evenly distribute hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy, golden brown finish.

Cooking Times and Temperatures

When cooking ready meals in an air fryer, it is important to adjust the time and temperature settings. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature stated on the meal's packaging or start with a default temperature of 180°C (350°F).
• Remove all packaging, including plastic wrap and aluminium containers.
• Place the meal in the air fryer basket, ensuring sufficient space for proper air circulation.
• Cook the meal for the suggested time on the packaging or refer to your air fryer manual.
• Halfway through the cooking time, flip or stir the meal to ensure even browning and crispiness.
• Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the meal and let it cool before serving.

Tips for Optimal Results

• Always check the packaging of your ready meal for specific instructions or warnings regarding air frying.
• For even cooking, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the meal.
• To add extra crispiness, consider giving your meal a light spritz of cooking oil before air frying.
• Keep a close eye on your meal during the cooking process, especially towards the end, to prevent overcooking or burning.
• If cooking a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can affect airflow and lead to uneven cooking.
• Most ready meals designed for oven or microwave cooking can be cooked in an air fryer. However, meals with delicate toppings or sauces might not withstand the high heat and strong air circulation.
• Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens due to their smaller size and faster cooking times.
• Always refer to the packaging instructions as a starting point and adjust the settings based on your air fryer's performance and your personal preferences.

Air fryer safety

Air fryers are a convenient and quick way to cook food. They are essentially small, powerful convection ovens that cook food faster and are more energy-efficient than traditional ovens. However, there are some safety precautions to be aware of when using an air fryer.

Burns and Fires

Air fryers can get very hot, with internal temperatures reaching almost 500° F. This high heat can be transmitted to the exterior of the machine, causing burns if touched. It is important to use oven mitts or heat-proof gloves when handling any part of the air fryer other than the handle. Keep the air fryer out of reach of children and pets, and leave space around it for adequate air circulation.

The high heat of air fryers also poses a fire risk. To reduce this risk, follow these guidelines:

• Allow at least 5 inches of space between the back of the air fryer and any walls or objects.
• Use the air fryer only on a surface that can handle high temperatures, such as a kitchen countertop.
• Avoid using cooking sprays with propellants. Instead, use an oil spray or pump with a high-flash-point oil.
• Read the user manual and unplug the appliance when not in use.

Food Safety

Air fryers generally have limited space inside, so overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation and lead to uneven cooking. When cooking large quantities of food, it is best to do so in batches.

To ensure food safety, follow these four steps:

• Clean: Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before and after preparing food. Clean and sanitise surfaces before and after food preparation.
• Separate: Do not place cooked food on plates that previously held raw food. Keep raw meats, poultry, and seafood away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and poultry, and fruits and vegetables.
• Cook: Avoid overfilling the air frying basket to ensure even cooking. Cook all foods to a safe minimum internal temperature, measured with a food thermometer:
• Fish: 145° F
• Whole cuts of beef, pork, veal, and lamb: 145° F with a 3-minute rest time
• Ground meat products: 160° F
• Poultry, including ground poultry: 165° F
• Chill: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours to prevent the growth of foodborne illness bacteria.

Cancer Risk

Some air fryers contain polyfluorinated molecules (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," in the non-stick coating of the basket. Exposure to high levels of PFAS has been linked to health problems such as infertility, hormone disruption, and certain types of cancer. To reduce PFAS exposure, purchase an air fryer with stainless steel or glass coatings.

Air fryer pros and cons

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods. They are touted as a healthier alternative to deep frying and are highly convenient for preparing quick meals.

Pros of Air Fryers:

• Fast Cooking: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional ovens due to rapid air circulation. They are ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal.
• Healthier Option: Air fryers require minimal oil, often just a spritz or light coating, resulting in reduced calorie intake and less saturated fat.
• Easy Cleanup: The non-stick baskets or trays in air fryers make cleaning a breeze compared to scrubbing oil splatters from stovetops or oven walls.
• Versatility: Air fryers are not limited to frying; they can roast vegetables, bake cookies, reheat leftovers, and more.
• Energy Efficiency: Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional ovens due to their smaller size and faster cooking times.

Cons of Air Fryers:

• Limited Capacity: Air fryers have a smaller capacity than standard ovens, making them less ideal for large meals or bigger households.
• Not Suitable for All Foods: Certain foods, like leafy greens or dishes with high moisture content, may dry out or burn easily in an air fryer. It is best suited for fried foods and crispy components like breaded items, fries, or samosas.
• Small Batches: Air fryers can only cook small batches of food at a time, and overfilling the basket can affect cooking results.
• Counter Space: Air fryers are bulky appliances that require sufficient counter space and ventilation during use.
• Drying Out: Some foods may get dried out in an air fryer, especially if left inside for too long due to the high temperatures.

Yes, you can cook ready meals in an air fryer. However, some adjustments may be necessary. Remove all plastic packaging and follow the package instructions as a starting point. Reduce the cooking time and temperature slightly as air fryers cook faster than ovens. You may also need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket and ensure even cooking.

Overall, air fryers offer convenience, versatility, and healthier cooking options but may not be suitable for all households or food types. They excel at preparing fried foods and crispy treats with minimal oil and faster cooking times.

Air fryer cleaning and maintenance

Air fryers are a convenient and safe way to cook a variety of foods. However, like all kitchen appliances, they require regular cleaning and maintenance to function optimally and safely. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for cleaning and maintaining your air fryer:

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:

• Unplug and Cool: Before cleaning, always ensure that the air fryer is unplugged from the power source and has cooled down completely. This is important for safety and to prevent burns.
• Wash Removable Parts: Remove the basket, tray, and any other removable parts. Wash these with warm or hot soapy water in the sink. Many air fryer components are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing may help prolong the non-stick coating.
• Wipe Down Interior and Exterior: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside and outside of the air fryer, being careful not to get the heating element wet. Avoid using abrasive sponges or metal utensils as they can damage the non-stick coating.
• Dry Thoroughly: Make sure all components are completely dry before reassembling the air fryer. Moisture can affect performance and even cause malfunction.
• Clean the Heating Element: Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently clean the heating element if it has accumulated grease or residue. Be cautious not to damage the heating coil or dislodge any parts. Ensure the heating element is completely dry before reassembling.

Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Residue:

For tough, baked-on grease and food residue, you can use a paste made of baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush or sponge and rinse well.

Maintenance Tips for a Cleaner Air Fryer:

• Use Liners or Parchment Paper: Air fryer liners, made of paper or silicone, catch drippings and prevent food from sticking to the basket, reducing cleanup time.
• Wipe it Down Regularly: Instead of waiting for a deep clean, give your air fryer a quick wipe down after each use, especially if you've cooked greasy foods.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Overfilling the basket can cause food to touch the heating element and create excess splatter, leading to more cleanup.
• Clean After Each Use: Regular cleaning after each use is essential to prevent buildup and make future cleanings easier.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasive Materials: Stick to mild dish soap and water for cleaning. Strong chemicals and abrasive sponges can damage the non-stick coating and leave harmful residue.
• Don't Skip the Heating Element: Grease can accumulate on the heating element over time, reducing efficiency. Clean it gently and thoroughly.
• Proper Storage: Store your air fryer in a clean, dry place when not in use to prevent dust and buildup of grime.

Air fryer ready meal recipes

Air fryers are a fantastic kitchen gadget that can cook a variety of foods, including ready meals. They use hot air circulation to create a crispy texture similar to frying, making them a great option for heating up convenience foods. Here are some tips and tricks for cooking ready meals in your air fryer.

Adjust Time and Temperature

Air fryers cook faster than conventional ovens, so when converting oven or microwave instructions, consider slightly lower temperatures and reduced cooking times. Start with the recommended cooking time on the packaging and adjust as needed.

Preheating (Optional)

Preheating your air fryer is not always necessary, but it can help achieve more consistent results. If you choose to preheat, do so for just a few minutes at the cooking temperature mentioned on the packaging.

Arrange Food in a Single Layer

Air fryer success is all about creating a single layer of food in the basket. Gently arrange your ready meal components, ensuring they have room to breathe. If you have protein and veggies, you may need to rearrange to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Add a Spritz of Oil

Air fryers use minimal oil, but a light spritz of your favourite cooking oil can take your meal to the next level. Just be cautious not to overdo it!

Monitor the Cooking Process

Keep a close eye on your meal as it cooks to avoid any mishaps. Give the basket a little shake or gently stir the contents to ensure even cooking.

Choose Suitable Ready Meals

Most ready meals that can be heated in an oven or microwave can also be cooked in an air fryer, particularly those with crispy components like breaded items, fries, or samosas. Avoid items with a very high fat content or extremely delicate foods, as they may cause excessive smoke or splattering.

Reheat Leftovers

The air fryer is also excellent for reheating leftovers, helping to revive the crispy texture and maintain the flavour of your food.

Now that you know the basics, here are some specific ready meal recipes you can try in your air fryer:

Frozen Lasagna

Cooking frozen lasagna in the air fryer gives it a crispy, cheesy top. Simply remove any plastic wrapping and place the lasagna in the air fryer. Cook for around 25 minutes at 180°C/360°F or until piping hot.

Frozen Sausages and Mash

Start by removing any packaging and placing the meal in the air fryer. Defrost for 10 minutes at 120°C/250°F, then cook for 15 minutes at 180°C/360°F.

Frozen Lamb Hotpot

Follow the same method as the sausages and mash, but after the defrost, air fry for 15 minutes at 180°C/360°F or until piping hot.

Frozen Breakfast

This is a quick and easy option for a busy morning. Remove the packaging and defrost for 10 minutes at 120°C/250°F. Stir the beans, then air fry for 8 minutes at 180°C/360°F.

Frozen Beef Roast Dinner

Remove the Yorkshire pudding first to prevent it from overcooking. Defrost for 10 minutes at 120°C/250°F, then cook for 14 minutes at 180°C/360°F. Add the Yorkshire pudding back in for the last 4 minutes.

With these tips and recipes, you're ready to start enjoying your favourite ready meals cooked to crispy perfection in your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions