Air-Frying Eggs: Is It Possible?

Frying eggs in an air fryer is a quick and easy alternative to stovetop cooking. It is mess-free, requires less oil, and offers even heat distribution. The air fryer makes fried eggs more effortless than ever, and you can achieve the same satisfying fry effect with less fat and calories. The cooking time depends on the type of eggs you want to make and the model of the air fryer. In general, preheat the air fryer at 350-400°F for 3-5 minutes. Then, cook the eggs at 350-375°F for 3-8 minutes, depending on how runny you want the yolk to be.

How to fry eggs in an air fryer

Frying eggs in an air fryer is a fast, easy, and healthy alternative to stovetop cooking. It requires minimal cleanup and produces evenly cooked eggs with a unique crunchy layer on the outside and a creamy yolk within. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect fried eggs using an air fryer.

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Cookware

First, select a suitable cookware that fits inside your air fryer. You can use a small skillet, a metal heatproof dish, a shallow non-stick baking tray, a mini cast-iron skillet, a pie or cake pan, ramekins, or disposable foil pans. It is important to use non-stick, oven-friendly cookware to ensure the eggs don't stick and allow for efficient air circulation.

Once you have chosen your cookware, grease it generously with cooking spray, olive oil, butter, avocado oil, or any other cooking oil. This step is crucial to prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan and to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Place the greased cookware inside the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes at a temperature between 350°F to 400°F (180°C to 204°C). This step ensures that your eggs cook evenly. If your air fryer does not have a preheat setting, simply run it for the recommended time with empty dishes inside.

Step 3: Crack the Eggs

After preheating, gently crack your desired number of eggs into the cookware. For a 6-quart air fryer, you can typically cook 2 to 4 eggs at once, depending on their size and the size of your cookware. If you are using ramekins, you may be able to fit up to 6 ramekins at once in some larger air fryers.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

Set the air fryer temperature between 350°F to 375°F (180°C to 190°C). The ideal cooking time will depend on your preferred yolk consistency. For a runny yolk, cook the eggs for about 3 to 5 minutes. If you prefer a medium yolk, add an extra minute. For a firm yolk, cook for 5 to 7 minutes.

Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, the size of the eggs, and their temperature (room temperature or refrigerated). It is recommended to start with shorter cooking times and adjust as needed. Check the eggs periodically to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Remove and Serve the Eggs

Once the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness, remove the cookware from the air fryer using kitchen tongs or oven mitts. Use a small rubber spatula or spoon to gently separate the eggs from the cookware. If the eggs stick, carefully run a butter knife around the edges to loosen them.

Transfer the fried eggs to a plate or directly onto your preferred base, such as toast or avocado slices. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy your perfectly cooked air-fried eggs!

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Eggs:

• Always grease the cookware generously to prevent sticking.
• Preheat the air fryer and cookware for even cooking.
• Monitor the cooking process and adjust timing as needed, as different air fryers may vary in performance.
• For crispy fried eggs, use cookware with low walls to allow for efficient air circulation.
• Season the eggs before or after cooking, according to your preference.
• Use a spatula with a firm edge to scoop out the eggs from the cookware easily.

Advantages of frying eggs in an air fryer

Frying eggs in an air fryer has many advantages. Here are some of them:

No Babysitting the Stove

You don't have to stand over a hot stove or a bubbling pool of oil while frying eggs in an air fryer. This means no more sweating over a hot stove or worrying about oil splatters. The air fryer does the work for you, and you can set it and forget it until the eggs are done.

Healthier Option

Air fryers use a fraction of the oil required for traditional frying, resulting in eggs with less fat and fewer calories. This makes air-fried eggs a healthier option without sacrificing taste. You can still enjoy your favourite fried eggs without feeling guilty!

Even Heat Distribution

Air fryers circulate hot air efficiently, ensuring even heat distribution during cooking. This means your eggs will cook evenly, with no hot spots or undercooked areas. The result is a perfectly cooked egg every time.

Precise Temperature Control

With an air fryer, you can precisely control the cooking temperature, allowing you to cook your eggs exactly how you like them. Want a runny yolk? Set the temperature accordingly. Prefer a firmer yolk? The air fryer has got you covered.

Reduced Mess and Smell

Air fryers contain the cooking process within the fryer itself, resulting in less mess and reduced odours during cooking. No more greasy splatters on your stovetop or strong cooking smells lingering in your kitchen. Clean-up is also a breeze, as there are fewer dishes and less oil involved.

Easy and Fast

Frying eggs in an air fryer is incredibly easy and straightforward. You only need a few simple ingredients and tools, and the cooking process is quick. It's a great option for busy mornings when you want a delicious and healthy breakfast without the fuss.

What to cook eggs in when using an air fryer

Air fryers are a great alternative to stovetop cooking, offering even heat distribution, reduced mess, and easy cleanup. They are also healthier, as they require less oil.

When frying eggs in an air fryer, it is important to use a non-stick, oven-friendly pan or dish to allow the hot air to circulate efficiently. Here are some options for cookware to use when frying eggs in an air fryer:

• Shallow, non-stick baking tray
• Mini cast-iron skillet
• Mini pie pan, mini cake pan, or mini pizza pan
• Ramekins
• Disposable foil pans
• Small cake pan
• Lightweight aluminum pan

Before cracking the egg into the pan or dish, be sure to grease the cookware with cooking spray or oil to prevent the egg from sticking. You can also line the air fryer with foil, forming a small cup shape with high enough sides to prevent spilling.

Once you have greased the cookware, simply crack your egg into the pan and place it in the air fryer. Set the temperature to between 350-400°F (177-204°C) and cook for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a runny yolk, cook for 3-4 minutes. For a medium yolk, cook for 4-5 minutes. For a firm yolk, cook for 5-6 minutes. If you are cooking multiple eggs, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

When the eggs are done to your liking, use a spatula to remove them from the pan and serve immediately. Season with salt and pepper, or your desired herbs and spices. Enjoy!

How long to cook eggs in an air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook eggs in an air fryer depends on the type of egg you want, the model of the air fryer, and the size of the egg.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Before cooking the eggs, it's important to preheat the air fryer. The ideal temperature for preheating is between 370°F (187°C) and 400°F (204°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.

Cooking the Eggs

For a runny yolk and soft-cooked whites, cook the eggs for 3 to 5 minutes at a temperature of 350°F (177°C) or 360 to 375°F (190°C).

For a medium-runny yolk and firmer whites, cook the eggs for 5 to 6 minutes.

For a firmer but still soft yolk, cook the eggs for 6 to 7 minutes.

For a well-done hard yolk and extra firm whites, cook the eggs for 7 to 8 minutes.

Tips

• Preheat the pan along with the air fryer for a crispy egg white.
• Use a suitable container, like an oven-friendly non-stick bake pan or ramekin.
• Grease the pan with a light coating of cooking spray or oil to prevent the eggs from sticking.
• For a crispy fried egg, select cookware with a low wall setting to allow hot air to circulate efficiently.
• Monitor the cooking time as it may vary depending on the specific model of the air fryer.
• Season the eggs with salt, pepper, or soy sauce before or after cooking.
• Use a spatula with a firm edge to remove the eggs from the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer fried eggs can be served with smashed avocado, buttery toast, crispy hash browns, or vegetables of your choice.

What to serve air-fried eggs with

Air-fried eggs are a delicious and healthy breakfast option, and they go well with many dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve them with:

On Toast

This is a classic option for fried eggs. The crispy edges and runny yolk of the egg combine perfectly with buttery toast. You can also add some smashed avocado, chives, baked beans, sliced tomato, or a sprinkle of cheese to take this dish to the next level.

With Sautéed Vegetables

Air-fried eggs can be a great addition to a bed of sautéed vegetables. Try serving them with Air Fryer Peppers and Mushrooms, or leftover Air-fried Roasted Potatoes. You can also top the eggs with Air-fried Avocado Slices for a creamy finish.

On a Salad

Fried eggs make a great topping for a green salad. The warm, runny yolk can act as a delicious salad dressing, and the contrast between the cool, crunchy greens and the warm, tender egg is simply irresistible.

With Noodles or Other Grains

The runny yolk of a fried egg makes a creamy sauce that coats every noodle or grain, creating a comforting and indulgent dish. You can add a handful of raw or cooked vegetables to this dish for some extra texture and flavour.

On Pizza

Adding a fried egg on top of a pizza just before it goes into the oven is a unique way to enjoy this classic dish. The egg whites will be set, while the centres remain soft, creating a delicious and indulgent bite.

With Meat

Fried eggs can be served with various meats to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Try them with bacon, sausage, or even bourbon-glazed pork chops for a sweet and savoury combination.

In Tacos

Fried eggs are a great addition to tacos, such as breakfast tacos with crispy potatoes, chorizo, and fried eggs, or sweet potato, sage, and fried egg tacos. They add protein and flavour to the dish, making it a well-rounded and filling meal.

With Grits

Grits are a classic Southern dish that can be elevated with the addition of fried eggs. Try them with creamy-and-cheesy grits or shrimp and sausage grits for a indulgent and satisfying meal.

In a Sandwich

Fried eggs can be added to sandwiches to make them more filling and tasty. Try them with a fried-egg-topped sandwich, where the egg is served on bread rounds stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried.

With Rice

Fried eggs are a perfect pairing with rice dishes, such as fried rice or bibimbap. The runny yolk mixes with the rice, creating a delicious and creamy sauce.

No matter what you choose to serve them with, air-fried eggs are a versatile and tasty addition to any meal.

Frequently asked questions