A black air fryer on a counter
Stop Making These Big Mistakes With Your Air Fryer

NEWS

By SARAH KEELER
An air fryer basket filled with French fries

Overcrowding

An air fryer’s volume capacity
is much smaller than most conventional deep fryers or baking pans, which often leads to basket overcrowding when cooking.
An air fryer basket filled with potato wedges
An overstuffed air fryer can’t work correctly, and your food becomes steamed and soggy instead. Overcrowded baskets are also more likely to spill and splatter, creating more mess.
A person setting the temperature in their air fryer

Not Preheating

While air fryers take less time to warm up than conventional ovens, most foods still need your device to preheat before you begin cooking properly.
Uncooked French fries in an air fryer
Preheating ensures the temperature is already at your desired setting and delivers the immediate blast of heat needed for that signature air-fried texture.
A person opening their air fryer next to a plate and bowls of fruits and vegetables

Not Using Oil

Air fryer recipes require less fat than pan frying or deep frying; however, you still need to use oil for the added moisture, texture, and flavor many dishes need.
A person holding a bottle of oil near food in an air fryer
Using oil in your air fryer recipes also keeps your food from getting stuck in the crevices of the basket. Only a small spoonful or spritz is typically needed for most jobs.
A person flipping their food in an air fryer

Flipping Or Tossing

Many believe the air fryer’s powerful fans that circulate the heat inside are enough, but it’s still required that you toss or flip your ingredients for an even cook.
A person putting food in their air fryer
The technique to ensure your food gets equal exposure to moving hot air use will depend on your recipe. Flipping or tossing will also help prevent food from sticking.
A person holding a thermometer and using it on an air fryer chicken

Checking Temperature

It’s crucial that you check the internal temperature of meats cooked in an air fryer, as
eating anything undercooked can result in foodborne illnesses.
Meats have different safe internal temperatures, ranging from 145 F for ham and steaks to 165 F for poultry. Hitting these temperatures is critical, so use a thermometer to check.