Air Fryer Hack: Warm Soups, Quick And Easy!

Air fryers have become a beloved kitchen gadget for crisping up fries and wings, but did you know they can also be used to heat up soup? Using an air fryer to heat your soup offers several benefits. These include even heating, flavour and texture preservation, convenience, energy efficiency, and more.

To heat soup in an air fryer, you'll need to use an air fryer-safe container, such as a glass or ceramic dish. You'll also want to cover your container with aluminium foil or an air fryer-safe lid to prevent moisture loss and ensure even heating.

Here's a simple step-by-step process:

1. Choose the right container: Select an air fryer-safe container that fits comfortably in the air fryer basket.

2. Transfer the soup: Pour your soup into the container, adding broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.

3. Cover the container: Use aluminium foil or an air fryer-safe lid to prevent the soup from drying out.

4. Preheat the air fryer (optional): Some models work best when preheated to around 300°F (150°C).

5. Place the container in the air fryer: Ensure it's stable and not at risk of tipping over.

6. Set the temperature and time: Heat at a moderate temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for 5-7 minutes for a single serving.

7. Stir and check: Midway through, open the air fryer, stir the soup, and check the temperature. Continue heating in short intervals as needed.

8. Serve: Once the soup is heated to your liking, carefully remove the container and stir well before serving.

Air fryer soup recipes

Yes, you can heat up soup in an air fryer. It is an unconventional method, but it offers several benefits over using a stovetop or microwave, such as even heating, flavour and texture preservation, convenience, energy efficiency, and moisture retention.

Tips for reheating soup in an air fryer:

• Choose the right container: Use an air fryer-safe container such as glass, ceramic, or metal that fits well in the air fryer basket. Avoid plastic or any material that might melt or release harmful chemicals at high temperatures.
• Avoid overfilling: Leave some space at the top of the container to prevent spillage and allow for even heating.
• Use a light cover: Cover the container with aluminium foil or an air fryer-safe lid to prevent moisture loss and ensure even heating. Poke a few holes in the foil for ventilation.
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating your air fryer can help to start the reheating process more quickly and evenly.
• Stir halfway through: Pause the heating and stir the soup to ensure even heating.
• Adjust liquidity if needed: If the soup has thickened, add a little water or broth before reheating to adjust its consistency.
• Reheat at lower temperatures: Set your air fryer to a moderate temperature, around 300°F (150°C), to avoid overheating some parts while leaving others cold.
• Safety first: Always use oven mitts or tongs when handling hot containers to avoid burns.

Air Fryer Bean Soup

This air fryer soup recipe by Summer Yule only requires three ingredients and can be adapted to make chicken soup, vegetable soup, French onion soup, or tomato soup.

Ingredients:

• 15-ounce can of chilli beans (drained)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth (store-bought or homemade)
• Soup toppings (optional): shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro, etc.
• Two 2-cup size oven-safe ramekins
• Foil
• Air fryer

Instructions:

• Drain the chilli beans and put them into a large food processor with the salsa and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth or leave it chunky, depending on your preference.
• Mist two ramekins with cooking oil spray.
• Divide the soup evenly between the prepared ramekins.
• Cover the ramekins tightly with foil, tucking the edges under the ramekins to secure the covering.
• Air fry the soup for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• After cooking, stir the soup, as the edges will be hotter than the middle.
• Carefully remove the soup from the air fryer and serve. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, avocado, and cilantro.

Air Fryer Roasted Tomato Soup

This creamy soup is made from tomatoes, onion, and garlic that have been roasted in an air fryer.

Ingredients:

• 6 fresh tomatoes, halved
• 1 small yellow or white onion, quartered
• 5 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup basil, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and line the basket with parchment paper.
• Add the tomatoes (cut side up), onions, and garlic to the basket. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and sugar.
• Air fry for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables have completely softened.
• After cooling, peel the tomatoes and remove any stems.
• Add the vegetables and basil to a food processor and pulse until smooth.
• Pour the blended veggies into a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan, and garlic powder. Heat through and serve.

Air Fryer Cheesy Potato Soup

This recipe uses an air fryer to cook the potatoes and bacon, while the rest of the ingredients are cooked in a saucepan.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium baking potatoes
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
• 4 green onions (spring onions)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups milk (1% or sharp cheddar)
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 slices of bacon or 2 ounces of bacon bits

Instructions:

• Wash the potatoes and rub them with olive oil. Sprinkle each potato with coarse salt and place them in the air fryer.
• Air fry the potatoes for 25-35 minutes at 375°F, depending on their size. The skin should be crispy, and you should be able to poke them easily with a fork.
• Let the potatoes cool, then cut them in half and scoop out the pulp. Cut the scooped-out potato into bite-sized pieces.
• If using bacon, place it in the air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip the bacon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until crispy.
• Chop the green onions.
• Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the green onions. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Stir in the flour, then slowly whisk in the milk. Heat over medium to low heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
• Add the potatoes and cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese melts.
• Serve with your favourite toppings, such as bacon bits, green onions, and extra cheese.

Other Air Fryer Soup Ideas:

• Chicken soup
• Vegetable soup
• French onion soup
• Black bean soup

Air fryer soup containers

Material

The material of the container is of utmost importance. It must be able to withstand the high temperatures generated by air fryers, typically up to 400°F (204°C). Here are some suitable materials:

• Ceramic: Known for its excellent heat tolerance and durability, ceramic is an ideal choice for air fryer soup containers.
• Glass: Ensure that the glass is oven-safe and can withstand high temperatures. Brands like Pyrex and Borosilicate are generally safe options. Avoid placing cold glassware directly into a hot air fryer, as it may crack or shatter.
• Metal: Stainless steel and aluminum are good options. However, avoid using containers with non-stick coatings, as they may release harmful fumes at high temperatures. Additionally, ensure that the metal dish does not have any plastic components, which can melt.
• Silicone: Silicone is heat-resistant and flexible, making it a versatile and safe choice for air fryer soup containers.

Size and Shape

When selecting a container, it is crucial to consider the size and shape of your air fryer. The container should fit comfortably inside the air fryer basket, allowing for proper air circulation. For compact air fryers (2-3 quarts), opt for shallow dishes, while larger models can accommodate baking pans or more spacious containers. Round or oval dishes work best in round air fryers, and square or rectangular dishes fit well in square/rectangular models.

Cover

To prevent moisture loss and ensure even heating, it is recommended to cover the container with aluminum foil or an air fryer-safe lid. This is especially important if your soup has a lot of liquid, as it can help to retain moisture and prevent splattering. If using aluminum foil, poke a few holes for ventilation.

Safety

Always use oven mitts or tongs when handling hot containers to avoid burns. Additionally, follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your air fryer model.

In summary, choosing the right container for reheating soup in an air fryer is essential for optimal results. Opt for oven-safe materials such as ceramic, tempered glass, or metal, ensuring proper airflow and avoiding plastic or wooden bowls. Cover the container to retain moisture and heat evenly, and always practice safety precautions when handling hot containers. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a warm and tasty bowl of soup with ease and convenience.

Air fryer soup preparation

Air fryers are a fantastic kitchen appliance for preparing and reheating food. They can be used for much more than just frying, and can even be used to make soup from scratch or reheat leftover soup.

Choosing the right container

When preparing soup in an air fryer, it is important to use an oven-safe container that can withstand high temperatures. Suitable options include ceramic bowls, glass containers (labelled as oven-safe), and metal pans. Avoid using plastic containers, as they can melt or release harmful chemicals. Make sure the container fits comfortably inside the air fryer with enough space for air circulation.

Preparing the soup

First, pour your desired amount of soup into the chosen oven-safe container, leaving some space at the top to prevent spilling. Cover the container with aluminium foil to retain moisture and prevent splattering.

Heating the soup

Place the covered container carefully into the air fryer basket, ensuring it is stable and not at risk of tipping over. Set the air fryer to a moderate temperature of around 300°F to 350°F (150°C to 175°C). The heating time will depend on the amount and type of soup, but it typically takes about 5-15 minutes. For a single serving, start with 5-7 minutes and adjust as needed. It is better to heat gradually than to overheat the soup.

Stirring and checking

Halfway through the heating time, carefully open the air fryer, remove the cover, and stir the soup to ensure even heating. Check the temperature and continue heating in short intervals if needed.

Serving

Once the soup has reached your desired temperature, carefully remove the container from the air fryer using oven mitts. Stir the soup well before serving.

Tips for optimal results

• Choose the right container: Use oven-safe glass, ceramic, or metal containers that fit well in the air fryer basket.
• Avoid overfilling: Leave some space at the top of the container to prevent spillage and allow for even heating.
• Use a light cover: Cover the container with aluminium foil to retain moisture and allow for air circulation. Poke a few holes in the foil for ventilation.
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating ensures a consistent temperature from the start and can lead to more even heating.
• Stir halfway through: Pause the heating and stir the soup to distribute heat evenly.
• Adjust liquidity if needed: If the soup has thickened, add a little water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
• Reheat at lower temperatures: Set the air fryer to a moderate temperature to prevent overheating some parts while leaving others cold.
• Safety first: Always use oven mitts when handling hot containers.
• Check the temperature: Ensure the soup is steaming hot but not boiling before serving.

Advantages of using an air fryer for soup

Using an air fryer for soup offers several benefits:

• Quick cooking time: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional methods, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Retains nutritional value: The rapid cooking time preserves more nutrients in the ingredients.
• Less mess to clean up: Air fryer baskets are typically non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easier.
• Allows for versatility: Air fryers can be used for a wide variety of meals, including soups, stews, casseroles, and baked goods.
• Enhances flavour: The air circulation creates a unique browning effect, adding depth to the ingredients.
• Energy efficiency: Air fryers heat up quickly and may use less energy compared to a stovetop or oven.
• Safety features: Many air fryers have automatic shut-off settings, providing peace of mind while cooking.
• Experimentation: Air fryers encourage experimentation with different recipes, ingredients, and spices.

Common mistakes to avoid

When heating soup in an air fryer, there are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not using an appropriate container: Choose a container that can withstand high temperatures and fits well in the air fryer basket without blocking air circulation.
• Ignoring portion size: Fill the container no more than three-quarters full to allow for proper air circulation and even heating.
• Skipping the temperature check: Monitor the temperature to ensure the soup reaches a safe and enjoyable temperature. Start with a lower temperature and gradually increase if needed.
• Forgetting to stir: Stir the soup halfway through the heating process to distribute heat evenly and create a consistent texture.
• Lack of proper seasoning: Add a splash of broth or herbs and spices to enhance the flavour if the soup tastes bland after heating.
• Overlooking cleaning: Clean the air fryer and the container after use to maintain the appliance in good condition.

Comparing air fryers to microwave ovens for reheating soup

Air fryers and microwave ovens have their own advantages and disadvantages for reheating soup:

• Air fryers maintain even heating and enhance flavours, but may take longer.
• Microwaves offer quick and convenient heating but can lead to uneven heating and affect the texture and flavour of the soup.

Ultimately, both appliances are effective for reheating soup, and the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Air fryer soup cooking times

The cooking time for soup in an air fryer depends on the quantity and type of soup, as well as the power and model of the air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide to reheating soup in an air fryer:

Choosing the Right Container:

Select an air fryer-safe container, such as glass, ceramic, or metal, that fits comfortably in the air fryer basket. Avoid using plastic or any material that cannot withstand high temperatures.

Transferring the Soup:

Pour the leftover soup into the chosen container. If the soup has thickened, you can add a small amount of broth or water to adjust its consistency.

Covering the Container:

Cover the container with aluminium foil or an air fryer-safe lid to prevent moisture loss and ensure even heating.

Preheating the Air Fryer (Optional):

Some air fryer models perform better when preheated. If your model recommends it, set your air fryer to around 300°F (150°C) and let it warm up for a few minutes.

Placing the Container in the Air Fryer:

Carefully place the container with the soup in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is stable and not at risk of tipping over.

Setting the Temperature and Time:

Heat the soup at a moderate temperature, typically around 300°F (150°C). For a single serving, start with a cooking time of 5-7 minutes and adjust as needed. It is better to heat the soup gradually to avoid overheating.

Stirring and Checking:

Halfway through the reheating time, carefully open the air fryer, remove the cover, and stir the soup to ensure even heating. Check the temperature at this point, and continue heating in short intervals if needed, checking every few minutes.

Serving:

Once the soup has reached your desired temperature, carefully remove the container from the air fryer using oven mitts and stir well before serving.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Choose the right container that is safe for air fryer use and fits well in the basket.
• Avoid overfilling the container to prevent spillage and allow for even heating.
• Use a light cover, such as aluminium foil with a few holes for ventilation, if your container doesn't have an air fryer-safe lid.
• Preheat the air fryer, if recommended by the manufacturer, for more even and quicker reheating.
• Stir the soup halfway through the heating process to ensure even heat distribution.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding water, broth, or cream if it has thickened during storage.
• Reheat the soup at a lower temperature to avoid overheating certain parts while leaving others cold.
• Always use oven mitts or tongs when handling hot containers to prevent burns.
• Check the soup's temperature before serving to ensure it is steaming hot but not boiling.
• Clean the air fryer after use, especially if any soup spills, to prevent burnt smells or smoke in future uses.

Air Fryer Soup Recipes:

In addition to reheating pre-made soup, you can also cook soup from scratch in your air fryer. Here is a simple recipe for air fryer tomato vegetable soup:

Ingredients:

• 4 small carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 bell peppers, deseeded and roughly chopped
• 1 large Spanish onion, peeled and quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (canola, avocado, or sunflower)
• ½ tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 large tomatoes, cut in half
• 4 cups of vegetable, chicken, or beef stock

Method:

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F / 200°C.
• Peel and chop the vegetables (except for the tomatoes) and place them in a large bowl.
• Add the oil, oregano, thyme, and other seasonings to the vegetables and toss well to coat evenly.
• Place the veggies in the air fryer basket, with the tomatoes on top, cut side up, and set the temperature to 400°F / 200°C for 20 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking.
• While the vegetables are roasting, gently warm the stock on the stovetop.
• Once the vegetables are tender, remove them from the air fryer and place them into a blender along with the warm stock.
• Blend on high power for about a minute or two until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.

This recipe takes about 35 minutes in total, including preparation and cooking time, and yields four servings. You can also add proteins or spices to customise the soup to your taste.

Air fryer soup vs. microwave soup

Air fryers and microwaves are both useful appliances for heating and cooking food. However, they have distinct features and benefits that make them suitable for different purposes, especially when it comes to heating soup.

Air Fryer Soup

Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, creating a crispy exterior and evenly cooked interior. They are ideal for achieving a crunchy texture on foods like French fries, wings, or breaded items, and for cooking without using excessive oil. When it comes to reheating soup, an air fryer offers several advantages:

• Even heating: Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, eliminating the problem of hot and cold spots that can occur in a microwave.
• Flavor and texture preservation: The gentle and consistent heating of an air fryer helps maintain the original flavor and texture of the soup, which might be altered when reheating in a microwave.
• Convenience and ease of use: Air fryers are straightforward to use and do not require constant stirring, making them a convenient option when multitasking in the kitchen.
• Energy efficiency: Air fryers heat up quickly and may use less energy compared to heating a stovetop or oven for a small amount of soup.
• No overheating: Air fryers reheat gently, reducing the risk of overheating and soup splattering, which can happen in microwaves.
• Keeps the kitchen cooler: Using an air fryer can be advantageous during warmer months as it doesn't heat up the kitchen like a stove or oven.
• Space-saving: Air fryers are countertop appliances, so they are a more space-saving option than using a stovetop, especially for those with limited kitchen space.
• Retains moisture: When covered, an air fryer can help retain the moisture in the soup, preventing it from drying out.

However, there are also some considerations to keep in mind when using an air fryer for soup:

• Not all soups are suitable: Air fryers work best with thicker soups or stews. Thin, broth-based soups may not heat evenly and could spill.
• Container requirements: You need to use air fryer-safe containers, such as glass or ceramic dishes, and follow the safety guidelines of your specific air fryer model.
• Longer heating time: Air fryers may take longer to heat up and reheat the soup compared to a microwave.

Microwave Soup

Microwaves, on the other hand, use electromagnetic waves to heat food quickly. They are renowned for their heating abilities and are perfect for infusing food with heat, especially for reheating leftovers, beverages, or pre-packaged meals. Here are some advantages of using a microwave for soup:

• Quick reheating: Microwaves excel at swiftly reheating liquids like soup due to their ability to heat food from the inside out.
• No preheating required: Microwaves do not need to be preheated, so they can heat up soup faster than an air fryer.
• High-water content foods: Microwaves agitate water molecules, making them well-suited for heating foods with high water content, such as soups and curries.
• Easy cleanup: Microwaves have a simple, rectangular shape, making them easy to clean with warm soapy water and a clean cloth. The plates are often dishwasher-safe as well.
• Cost-effective: Microwaves are generally cheaper to buy and run compared to air fryers, as they require less time to heat food and do not need to preheat.

However, there are also some drawbacks to using a microwave for soup:

• Soggy food: Microwaves tend to make food soggy, so they are not ideal for achieving a crispy texture on crumbed foods.
• Uneven heating: Microwaves can sometimes result in uneven heating, with hot and cold spots in the soup.
• Overheating: Microwaves can occasionally overheat and cause soup to splatter, which can be messy and unsafe.

Both air fryers and microwaves have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to heating soup. If you prioritize texture and flavor preservation, even heating, and are not in a rush, an air fryer is a great option. On the other hand, if speed, convenience, and cost are your main concerns, a microwave might be the better choice. Ultimately, both appliances have their place in the kitchen, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions