Air Fryer Fried Egg: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Making fried eggs in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy alternative to stovetop cooking. Using a fraction of the oil, your eggs will be ready in minutes with minimal cleanup.

Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

- 1 large egg, refrigerated

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Cooking oil spray

- A shallow, non-stick tray or a small low-setting bake pan

Instructions:

1. Spray the pan with oil, place it in the fryer basket, and preheat it for 5 minutes at 400°F (204 °C).

2. Crack the egg into a small cup or bowl and carefully pour it onto the hot pan or tray.

3. Air fry for 3 minutes for a sunny side up or over-easy egg. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred yolk consistency.

4. Use a spatula to remove the egg from the pan gently.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

How to get the perfect yolk consistency

The key to getting the perfect yolk consistency in an air fryer is timing. Depending on your air fryer model, the cooking time may vary, so it's important to keep an eye on your eggs as they cook. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect yolk consistency:

• For a runny yolk, cook the eggs for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (177°C) to 370°F (187°C). Start with 3 minutes and then check on your eggs. If you prefer a very runny yolk, you can cook for as little as 3 minutes.
• For a medium-runny or slightly gooey yolk, increase the cooking time to 5-6 minutes.
• For a firmer but still soft yolk, cook the eggs for 6-7 minutes.
• If you prefer a completely firm yolk, it's recommended to make hard-boiled eggs instead, as the texture will be better. However, if you wish to do it in the air fryer, cook the eggs for 7-8 minutes.
• Remember that the size and temperature of the egg will also affect the cooking time. Smaller and room-temperature eggs will have a shorter cooking time.
• Always preheat your air fryer for at least 2 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• If you're worried about breaking the yolks, crack the eggs into a small bowl first and then carefully pour them into your cooking vessel.
• Use a suitable cooking vessel such as a small cake pan, pie pan, or ramekin. Make sure it's oven-safe and fits your air fryer.
• Grease your cooking vessel with oil or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the eggs.
• After cooking, remove the eggs from the air fryer and transfer them to a plate or toast. The eggs may continue to cook if left in the hot dish.
• Season with salt and pepper, and enjoy your perfectly cooked eggs!

Choosing the right pan

Pan Material and Coating:

• Non-Stick Pans: It is crucial to use a non-stick pan when making fried eggs in an air fryer. This coating ensures that the eggs don't stick to the pan, making them easier to remove and minimising cleanup.
• Oven-Safe Cookware: Choose a pan that is oven-safe or heat-resistant. This is important because the air fryer cooks at high temperatures, and you don't want your pan to warp or get damaged.

Pan Shape and Size:

• Shallow Pan: Opt for a shallow pan or tray to allow hot air to circulate efficiently around the egg. This will help cook the egg evenly and reduce the chances of overcooking or undercooking.
• Small to Medium Pan: Depending on the size of your air fryer, select a small to medium-sized pan. A good option is a 3- to 4-inch cake or pie pan, a mini cast-iron skillet, or a ramekin. You can also use disposable foil pans.

Pan Preparation:

• Greasing the Pan: Before cracking the egg into the pan, it is essential to grease it well. Use cooking spray, oil, or butter to coat the pan evenly. This step ensures that the egg doesn't stick to the pan and makes it easier to remove the cooked egg.
• Preheating the Pan: Some recipes recommend preheating the pan in the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the egg. This step can help ensure even cooking and a crispy fried egg.

When choosing a pan for making fried eggs in an air fryer, look for a shallow, non-stick, oven-safe pan that fits comfortably in your air fryer. You can use a variety of pan options, such as cake pans, pie pans, cast-iron skillets, or ramekins. Greasing the pan generously and preheating it are also crucial steps to ensure your fried eggs turn out perfectly.

How to get the eggs out of the pan

Once your fried egg is ready, it's time to take it out of the pan. Here are some tips to help you with this process:

• Use a Spatula: Use a spatula with a firm edge to carefully scoop out and release the egg from the pan. This will help you lift the egg without breaking it.
• Be Gentle: When removing the egg, be gentle to avoid breaking the yolk. If you prefer a runny yolk, you'll want to take extra care.
• Check for Stuck Edges: If the egg is stuck to the pan, gently run a butter knife or a spatula around the edges to loosen it before lifting it out.
• Work Quickly: Fried eggs are best served hot and fresh. Remove the egg from the pan promptly and transfer it to your dish or toast.
• Season to Taste: After removing the egg from the pan, season it with salt and pepper, or your desired herbs and spices.
• Clean the Pan: Don't forget to clean your pan promptly to prevent the egg residue from hardening. You can use cold water and a soft sponge to clean non-stick pans effectively.

How to peel your boiled eggs

Now that you know how to make a fried egg in an air fryer, here are some tips on how to peel your boiled eggs:

First, it's important to note that peeling hard-boiled eggs can be frustrating and time-consuming. However, there are some simple tips and techniques to make the process easier.

One tip is to use eggs that have been in the fridge for a few days, as they are easier to peel than fresh eggs. Starting with the right type of egg can make the process much smoother.

Now, let's get into the step-by-step process:

• Crackle the egg all over by gently tapping it on your counter or another hard surface. This will create small cracks in the shell, making it easier to peel.
• Roll the egg gently between your hands to loosen the shell further. You can also try shaking the egg in a jar with a little water to achieve a similar effect.
• Start peeling the egg from the large end. Hold the egg under cold running water or dip it in a bowl of water, as this will help remove the shell more easily.
• If you're having trouble, try using a spoon to gently separate the shell from the egg. You can also try blowing into the larger end of the egg after cracking both ends to push the egg out of the shell.
• Rinse the egg under cold water to remove any remaining shell fragments.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all technique, and you may need to experiment with different methods to find what works best for you. Additionally, some people suggest that adding a bit of baking soda, salt, or vinegar to the water before boiling can help make the eggs easier to peel, so you may want to give that a try as well.

What to serve with your fried eggs

So, you've made your fried eggs in the air fryer, but what to serve them with? Here are some ideas to elevate your breakfast, lunch, or dinner:

On Toast

This combination is a classic for a reason. It's a simple, quick, and easy way to serve fried eggs. For a little extra flavour, you could add baked beans, sliced tomato, or a sprinkle of cheese.

With Meat

Fried eggs go well with bacon or sausage patties. For a healthier option, try serving with salmon or avocado slices.

On a Pizza

Crack a few eggs on top of your pizza just before it goes into the oven. The whites will be set, and the yolks will still be soft. This option is best eaten with a knife and fork!

With Hash Browns or Breakfast Potatoes

Fried eggs are a great addition to a classic breakfast. Serve with hash browns or breakfast potatoes, and some meat and vegetables for a well-rounded morning meal.

On a Burger

You can add fried eggs to a burger for a juicy, protein-packed meal.

On a Sandwich

Fried eggs are a tasty addition to a sandwich, especially a BLT with cheddar or a banh mi.

On Ramen or Noodles

The runny yolk of a fried egg makes a great sauce for ramen or noodles. This is comfort food at its best and is delicious with a handful of raw or cooked vegetables.

On a Salad

Fried eggs make a simple green salad more exciting and nutritious. The warm, runny yolk also acts as an instant salad dressing.

On Hearty Greens

Try serving fried eggs on kale or another type of hearty green. The combination of bitter greens and rich egg is a perfect flavour match.

With Rice

Fried eggs go well with rice bowls, especially those with Korean or Japanese flavours.

With Polenta

A fried egg can be served with creamy polenta for a simple yet elegant dish.

In a Quesadilla

Try a sweet potato and cilantro quesadilla with a fried egg on top for a surprising combination of flavours and textures.

With Asparagus

Asparagus and fried eggs are a match made in heaven. Try them together in a soup, or with parmesan cheese.

On a Biscuit

A fried egg can be served on a biscuit for a hearty breakfast.

With Udon Noodles

Savoury udon noodles and a fried egg is a tasty combination.

On Avocado Toast

For a fresh take on eggs on toast, serve your fried eggs on avocado toast. Add some cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for a caprese twist.

With Black Beans

Black beans and fried eggs are a delicious combination, especially in a breakfast burrito or on a cheeseburger.

With Spinach and Feta

Spinach and feta breakfast quesadillas with fried eggs are a tasty and underrated breakfast option.

With Chorizo

Spicy chorizo and scrambled eggs are a match made in heaven. Add some pico de gallo, avocado, and feta, and serve in tortillas for breakfast tacos.

With Noodles

Try serving fried eggs with sesame-garlic soba noodles for a quick and tasty meal.

With Ravioli

A fried egg can turn a boring bowl of ravioli into something exciting.

With Potato Salad

A fried egg can liven up a potato salad, especially one with spinach.

With Soup

A fried egg can add some protein to a bowl of soup, especially asparagus soup.

With Baked Goods

Fried eggs go well with cinnamon rolls or biscuits for a sweet and savoury combination.

With Vegetables

Fried eggs can be served with sautéed vegetables, such as peppers and mushrooms, or roasted potatoes.

With Fruit

For a well-rounded breakfast, serve fried eggs with fresh fruit, such as grapefruit, oranges, cantaloupe, or berries.

The options are endless, so get creative and enjoy your fried eggs!

Frequently asked questions