Air Fryer Recipes: Can You Use An Oven Instead?

Air fryers are a popular alternative to deep-frying, as they require less oil and produce a similar texture. They are also more convenient than ovens, as they preheat faster and don't heat up the entire kitchen. However, some people may prefer to cook air fryer recipes in their oven, especially if they already have an oven with an air fryer option. It is possible to cook air fryer recipes in an oven, but there are some adjustments that need to be made to the temperature and cooking time. Additionally, a crisper air fryer tray is needed to allow air to circulate properly.

Can you cook air fryer recipes in an oven?

Convection ovens vs. air fryers

Convection ovens and air fryers are both kitchen appliances used for cooking food. While they operate on a similar principle of circulating hot air around food items, there are a few key differences between them.

One of the main differences is that air fryers require less oil than deep fryers, typically only needing one to two tablespoons of oil compared to the four to six cups used in deep frying. This makes air frying a healthier alternative to deep frying, as the food is not submerged in oil. Air fryers are also known for their convenience and versatility, allowing users to recreate deep-fried favourites with little to no oil, such as chicken, vegetables, baked goods, and even pasta. They are also compact, easy to use, and often come with additional settings like bake, roast, or broil.

On the other hand, convection ovens are larger and take longer to preheat. They are more traditional cooking appliances that use fans to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking. While convection ovens can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks, they may not offer the same convenience and specific functionalities as air fryers.

When deciding between a convection oven and an air fryer, it's important to consider your cooking needs and preferences. If you're looking for a quick, convenient, and healthy way to cook deep-fried foods, an air fryer might be a better option. On the other hand, if you need a versatile appliance for a wide range of cooking tasks and don't mind the longer preheat times, a convection oven could be more suitable.

Additionally, it's worth noting that some ovens come with built-in air fryer settings, combining the functionalities of both appliances. These ovens with air fryer settings can offer the best of both worlds, providing the convenience and health benefits of air frying, along with the versatility and capacity of a traditional oven.

Preheating your air fryer

To preheat your air fryer, set the desired cooking temperature and leave the basket in so that it can also get hot. If your air fryer has a preheat button, simply press it and wait for the appliance to warm up to that temperature. If it doesn't have a preheat button, turn on the air fryer and let it sit empty for about 2 to 5 minutes. For larger air fryers, preheating may take up to 4 to 5 minutes.

It's important to note that not all air fryers are the same, and some may not be equipped for preheating. Always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific instructions. Additionally, if you are cooking in batches, the first batch may take longer to cook, and the rest may burn if you're not careful.

When deciding whether or not to preheat your air fryer, consider the type of food you are cooking and your desired outcome. Preheating can speed up cooking time and make your food crispier, but it may not be necessary for all recipes or types of food. For example, if you are baking cakes, donuts, or cookies, you may want to follow the same approach as you would with an oven and preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature before adding your food.

Air fryer recipes

Air fryers are a great way to cook your favourite foods with little to no oil. They are healthier than deep-frying and can cook your food a few minutes faster. If you're looking to cook air fryer recipes in an oven, you'll need an oven with an air fryer option.

Air fryer ovens may vary slightly by model, but the basic principles are the same. Air fryer ovens use hot air circulation to cook food, so it's important to ensure that your food is placed in a single layer with enough space around each item to allow for proper air circulation. You can also use a catch-tray under your air fry basket to catch any excess oil or drippings.

Before cooking, lightly oil your food to help it crisp up and brown nicely. High-heat cooking oils, like avocado, grapeseed, and peanut oils, work best. You can also use an alarm thermometer to know exactly when your meats are done.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your air fryer oven for about 5 minutes. Then, follow the time and temperature instructions for your recipe, turning your food halfway through. Check your food towards the end of the cooking time, and if it's not done, add a few extra minutes as needed.

There are plenty of delicious air fryer recipes to try, including crispy golden chicken, extra-crispy potatoes, beef and broccoli, and even desserts like berry crisp, vegan zucchini chocolate cake, and GF peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.

Air fryer settings

Air fryers are a convenient and versatile cooking option that can deliver crispy and juicy results with little to no oil. They are similar to convection ovens, but with a dedicated air frying feature optimising temperature and air circulation. Here are some key air fryer settings and tips to help you get the most out of this handy appliance.

Preheating

Not all air fryers require preheating, so it's best to refer to your manual for specific instructions. However, preheating can help you achieve more consistent results. If your air fryer has a preheat option, preheat it to the desired temperature. If it doesn't have a preheat function, simply turn on the air fryer setting and let it sit empty for about 5 minutes.

Oil and Food Placement

Lightly oil the food you will be cooking, especially if it's a vegetable. High-heat cooking oils like avocado, grapeseed, or peanut oil work best. Place the food in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and even cooking. If you're cooking something with multiple ingredients, use an oven-safe cake insert, foil pan, or bowl to prevent small pieces from falling through the basket.

Temperature and Time

Air fryers typically use higher temperatures than conventional ovens. When converting an oven recipe, reduce the temperature by 25°F and the cook time by about 20%. Keep in mind that cooking time can vary depending on the amount of food in the basket, so always refer to the cooking instructions or labels. Shake or flip your food during the cooking process to ensure even crisping and browning.

Additional Settings

Some air fryers offer additional settings like bake, roast, or broil. For example, select KitchenAid® countertop ovens with Air Fry feature nine cooking settings, including proof, dehydrate, and toast. These extra settings expand your recipe options beyond air frying.

Clean-up

After the air fry cycle is finished, remove the basket to prevent the food from drying out. Clean the basket according to the product instructions, either by hand or in the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe.

Air fryer maintenance

Air fryers are a great way to cook your favourite foods with less oil and fewer calories. They are also relatively easy to clean and maintain. Here are some tips to keep your air fryer in good condition:

Cleaning the Air Fryer

Cleaning your air fryer regularly is important to prevent charred food and gunk buildup. It is recommended to clean the basket, tray, and pan after each use, either by hand or in the dishwasher, depending on the model. The exterior may not need to be cleaned as frequently, but it is a good idea to wipe it down after a few uses to prevent lingering smells and smoke.

Removing Food Residue

For stubborn food residue, create a paste with baking soda and water, and scrub it with a soft-bristled brush. Then, wipe it clean with a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using utensils, steel wool, metal scrubbers, or abrasive sponges, as these can scratch the non-stick coating.

Cleaning the Interior

Wipe down the interior of the air fryer with a damp microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge and a mild detergent. Be sure to wipe away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth and ensure that the air fryer is thoroughly dry before using it again.

Heating Element and Coil

To clean the heating element, turn the air fryer upside down and wipe it with a damp cloth or sponge. The heating coil should be checked every few months for oil residue and cleaned with a damp cloth if necessary. Allow it to dry completely before using the air fryer.

Other Tips

When cooking with an air fryer, it is important to preheat it for about 5 minutes before adding food. Additionally, remember to flip your food halfway through cooking and adjust the temperature as needed to prevent over-browning.

Converting Oven Recipes

If you want to convert an oven recipe for an air fryer, a good rule of thumb is to reduce the temperature by 25°F and halve the bake time. However, always keep an eye on your food and adjust the time and temperature as needed for your desired doneness.

Frequently asked questions