Beat Practices for Using an Air Fryer

An air fryer is a convenient kitchen appliance that cooks food using hot circulating air. It helps prepare crispy, delicious meals with little or no added oil.

Using it correctly can improve cooking results, extend the life of your appliance, and make your cooking safer.

Here are 15 best practices for using an air fryer.

1. Preheat your air fryer

4

• Preheat for 3–5 minutes when recommended by your recipe or manufacturer.

• Preheating helps food cook more evenly.

• Some air fryers have an automatic preheat setting.

2. Avoid overcrowding the basket

• Arrange food in a single layer whenever possible.

• Leave space for hot air to circulate.

• Cook in batches when preparing large quantities.

Tip: Overcrowding can result in soggy rather than crispy food.

3. Use a small amount of oil

8

• Lightly coat vegetables and potatoes with oil when appropriate.

• Use an oil mister or brush.

• Avoid excessive oil, which can cause smoke and dripping.

4. Shake or turn food halfway through cooking

• Shake the basket for French fries, nuggets, and smaller foods.

• Turn chicken, fish, and larger pieces halfway through.

• This helps achieve an even golden-brown finish.

5. Use the correct temperature

Different foods require different temperatures.

These are starting ranges. Adjust according to food thickness, recipe instructions, and your appliance manual.

6. Choose the right accessories

7

• Use accessories specifically labeled air-fryer safe.

• Choose perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers.

• Make sure accessories fit without blocking airflow.

• Never place loose parchment paper inside during preheating.

7. Do not use regular cooking spray with aerosol additives

• Some aerosol sprays can damage nonstick coatings.

• Use an oil mister or a small amount of cooking oil instead.

• Avoid spraying oil directly onto the heating element.

8. Avoid wet batter

• Traditional liquid batter may drip through the basket.

• Use breaded coatings or recipes designed for air frying.

• Pat food dry before cooking for better crispiness.

9. Use aluminum foil carefully

• Use only if permitted by your manufacturer's instructions.

• Secure foil under food so it cannot blow toward the heating element.

• Never cover the entire basket because it blocks airflow.

10. Cook meat to the correct internal temperature

Use a food thermometer rather than relying only on appearance.

11. Do not leave your air fryer unattended

• Keep it away from curtains and other flammable materials.

• Place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface.

• Keep its air vents clear.

• Keep children away from the hot basket.

12. Avoid putting these foods directly into the air fryer

5

Be careful with:

• Soups and liquids.

• Loose lightweight leafy greens.

• Popcorn kernels.

• Foods with excessive cheese that can drip and burn.

Use an appropriate oven-safe dish when preparing suitable foods with sauces or liquids.

13. Clean your air fryer after every use

8

• Allow the appliance to cool completely.

• Remove the basket and tray.

• Wash with warm water and mild dish soap.

• Use a soft sponge to protect the nonstick coating.

• Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.

• Remove grease and food particles regularly.

14. Do not immerse the main appliance in water

• The electrical body should never be submerged.

• Keep the power cord and plug dry.

• Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.

15. Store your air fryer properly

• Make sure all parts are completely dry.

• Store in a clean, dry location.

• Keep the power cord neatly arranged.

• Avoid placing heavy objects on top.

Bonus: 7 common air fryer mistakes to avoid

1. Overfilling the basket.

2. Using too much oil.

3. Forgetting to shake or turn food.

4. Blocking the air circulation vents.

5. Using the wrong temperature.

6. Not cleaning grease buildup.

7. Removing food without protecting your hands.

Air fryer cooking inspiration

5

0:41

0:40

0:26

My best advice: Always remember the three golden rules of air frying: do not overcrowd, allow hot air to circulate, and clean the appliance after every use.