Air Fryer Tips & Tricks
Mastering your air fryer involves more than just knowing recipes; it requires understanding how to maximise its potential for everyday cooking.
Freshly updated 20 July 2026 · new tips every week
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Preheat the Air Fryer
Unlike ovens, air fryers reach the desired temperature quickly but preheating ensures even cooking and crispier results. Set your air fryer to the cooking temperature for 3-5 minutes before adding food.
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Use Parchment Paper Wisely
Cut parchment paper slightly smaller than the basket to prevent it from interfering with air circulation. Pre-punched parchment sheets are ideal for keeping food from sticking without blocking airflow.
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Shake the Basket
For even cooking, especially with foods like chips or vegetables, shake the basket halfway through the cooking process. This helps distribute the heat and ensures all sides become crisp.
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Avoid Overcrowding
To achieve a crispy finish, ensure there is space between items for air to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy food.
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Use a Misting Bottle
A light mist of oil can enhance the crispiness of your food. Use a refillable misting bottle to apply oil sparingly, avoiding excessive calories and ensuring a perfect golden finish.
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Adjust Cooking Times
Air fryers often cook faster than conventional ovens. Check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests, particularly when trying new dishes, to prevent overcooking.
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Layer Flavours with Marinades
For more flavourful results, marinate meats and vegetables before air frying. The rapid cooking process can lock in these flavours, providing a deeper taste experience.
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Utilise Air Fryer Racks
If your air fryer came with a rack, use it to cook multiple layers of food simultaneously. This increases capacity and is especially useful for cooking different components of a meal.
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Clean the Basket Regularly
Prevent flavour transfer and maintain your air fryer’s efficiency by cleaning the basket and tray after each use. A quick wash with warm soapy water is usually sufficient.
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Experiment with Baking
The air fryer can bake small batches of cookies or muffins quickly and evenly. Use silicone moulds or small baking tins to take advantage of the air fryer’s even heat distribution.
Ready to put these into practice?
Browse our air fryer recipes →
