Air Fryer Fried Egg: Perfect Timing For Breakfast

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook fried eggs without the need to babysit the stove or stand over hot oil. The cooking time depends on the type of egg you want to make and the model of the air fryer. For a runny egg yolk, cook the egg for a shorter time, and for a firm egg yolk, cook it for a longer time. The air fryer model, temperature settings, and basket size will also influence the cooking time. For example, to make soft-boiled eggs, air fry at 280°F for 9-10 minutes, and for hard-boiled eggs, air fry at the same temperature for 12-15 minutes. For a fried egg with a crispy layer on the outside and a runny yolk, preheat the air fryer to 370°F and cook for 3-5 minutes.

Preheat the air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It ensures your food cooks evenly and efficiently, and is especially important when cooking eggs, as they can cook very quickly.

To preheat your air fryer, first, ensure your appliance is set up correctly and plugged in. Set the temperature to 400°F and the timer to 5 minutes. If your air fryer does not have a timer, use a separate timer so you don't forget about your food.

While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your egg. Crack an egg into a small cup or bowl. You can season the egg with salt and pepper, or your preferred herbs and spices, at this stage, or wait until it is cooked. You can also grease your pan with butter or a non-stick spray at this point.

Once the 5 minutes are up, carefully place the egg into the hot pan or tray and place it inside the air fryer. Set the timer according to your preferred yolk consistency. For a runny yolk, cook for a shorter time, and for a firm yolk, cook for longer.

Remember, the preheating time and temperature may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

Air fry at 280°F for 9-10 minutes for soft-boiled eggs

To make soft-boiled eggs in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer. Set it to a low temperature to mimic a simmering pot of water, which is what you'd usually use to boil eggs.

Next, you'll want to prepare the eggs for cooking. Take a piece of foil and shape it into a circular bowl, leaving the bottom flat and the edges curled inward. Spray the bottom of the bowl with non-stick cooking spray and place it into the air fryer basket. Alternatively, you can use a small, oven-safe dish, such as a cake pan, a pie pan, a cast-iron skillet, or a ramekin. If you're using a dish, spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray, then place the dish inside the air fryer.

Now, you're ready to cook your eggs. Gently crack an egg into the centre of the foil bowl or dish. If you're using a foil bowl, cook the egg for around 4 minutes. If you're using a dish, cook at 280°F for 9-10 minutes. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, the size of your eggs, and your desired level of doneness. For a runny yolk, cook for a shorter time, and for a firm yolk, cook for longer.

Once the eggs are done to your liking, remove the foil bowl or dish from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts. Place the eggs on a heatproof surface and gently separate them from the foil or dish using a rubber spatula or spoon. If the eggs are stuck, carefully run a butter knife around the edges to loosen them. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy your soft-boiled eggs!

Air fry at 370°F for 3-5 minutes for a fried egg

To make a fried egg in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to 370°F (187°C) for three minutes. Then, gently crack an egg into a small, round, air fryer-safe pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Place the pan in the air fryer and cook at 370°F for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a runny yolk, cook for a shorter time, and for a firm yolk, cook for a longer time. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, so it's a good idea to check on your egg periodically to ensure it is cooked to your liking.

Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pan from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts and place it on a heatproof surface. Use a small rubber spatula or spoon to gently remove the egg from the pan. If the egg is stuck, run a butter knife around the edge of the pan to loosen it. Transfer the egg to a dish or prepared toast, and season with salt and pepper, or your favourite herbs and seasonings, to taste. Enjoy your fried egg!

It's important to note that air fryers can differ in terms of power and how they circulate air, so you may need to experiment with cooking times to find the perfect method for your specific appliance. Additionally, the size of the eggs, the temperature settings, and the fullness of your air fryer basket can also impact the cooking time.

You can also cook multiple eggs at once in an air fryer, depending on the size of your air fryer basket. In a 6-quart air fryer basket, you can cook up to two large eggs in the same bake pan at once.

Use a firm-tipped spatula to remove the egg

When your fried egg in the air fryer is cooked to your liking, it's time to remove it. This step requires a bit of caution, as you don't want to break the yolk or damage the crispy edges you've created. The best tool for the job is a firm-tipped spatula.

Using a firm-tipped spatula, carefully slide it under the egg, making sure to cover the entire surface. This will ensure that the egg is supported as you lift it out of the air fryer. Gently lift the egg with the spatula, taking care not to tilt or shake it too much, as this can cause the yolk to break. If you're cooking multiple eggs, you may need to use more than one spatula or carefully transfer each egg individually.

If your egg sticks to the pan, don't force it. Instead, try using a butter knife to gently loosen the edges. You can also run the knife around the edge of the pan to help release the egg. Once the egg is loosened, carefully slide the spatula under it again and lift.

Some air fryer models may come with accessories or tools specifically designed for removing fried eggs. These can include kitchen tongs, oven mitts, or even small rubber spatulas. If you have access to these tools, feel free to use them, but always exercise caution to avoid breaking the yolk.

Removing a fried egg from an air fryer with a firm-tipped spatula requires a gentle touch and a bit of practice. With a few tries, you'll be able to master the technique and enjoy your perfectly cooked fried egg.

Season the egg with salt, pepper, or soy sauce

Seasoning your fried egg is a matter of personal preference. You can season the egg before or after cooking it. Salt and pepper are the most commonly used seasonings, but you can also use soy sauce or coconut aminos. If you are using salt and pepper, simply sprinkle the desired amount over the egg. If you are using soy sauce, you can drizzle it over the egg or dip the egg into a small dish of soy sauce.

When seasoning with salt and pepper, it is important to remember that a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more if needed. You can always add more seasoning, but it is difficult to remove it if you add too much.

If you are using soy sauce, be aware that it can be high in sodium. A little soy sauce can add a lot of flavour, so you may not need to use much.

In addition to salt, pepper, or soy sauce, you can also experiment with other seasonings and herbs to find your perfect combination. Some people like to add shredded cheese, hot sauce, or fresh herbs to their fried eggs.

Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to start with a small amount and add more to taste. This way, you can ensure that your egg is seasoned to your liking without being overwhelmed by any one flavour.

Frequently asked questions