5 Air Fryer Tips to Guarantee the Best Results

With more than 1.8 million posts on Instagram, the air fryer is a steadfast kitchen appliance that inspires some pretty creative recipes across the board. In fact, it may be even better than the Instant Pot.

Regardless, this “it” appliance is worth the investment — so long as you know what to expect from it (spoiler alert: it’s not exactly the same as frying) and how to use it. Here are our smartest air fryer tips for how to air fry like a boss.

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1. Do: Use some (high-quality) oil.

A big reason the air fryer has become so popular is because you need a fraction of the oil to cook fried favorites, such as fries and chicken. But you still need some. Depending on how large of a batch you’re cooking, you only need a teaspoon to a tablespoon.

It’s also important to choose an oil that can withstand high heat. Avocado oil is our fave.

2. Don’t: Overcrowd your air fryer.

For the best results, make sure that your food has space to get crispy. To avoid overcrowding, all the food in the air fryer should touch the bottom. If you pile up everything in the air fryer, you’ll end up steaming the food and miss out on that fry texture.

3. Do: Think beyond French fries.

If you’re only using your air fryer to make plain old fries, you’re not getting the most out of your air fryer. For example: “Brussels sprouts were made for the air fryer,” says registered dietician Dana Angelo White, author of The Healthy Air Fryer Cookbook. Thinking outside the box can transform your vegetables using this toasty machine.

Here’s some air fryer recipe inspiration to get you started:

• • 7 Healthy Trader Joe’s Foods You Can Pop in the Air Fryer
  • 20 Quick and Healthy Air Fryer Snacks You Can Make in a Snap
  • 10 Best Air Fryer Broccoli Recipes

4. Don’t: Get carried away.

We know, we know: We just told you to think outside the proverbial box. But some things, like air fryer pasta chips, just aren’t worth it. So get creative, but also keep things simple. Flavorful, crispy vegetable sides will never disappoint.

5. Do: Preheat your air fryer.

Preheating your air fryer is a game changer if you’re not already doing so. The sudden blast of heat is beneficial for getting an even cook on your food, as well as making sure they crisp up nicely.

Slow and gradual heating, which is done when you immediately put your food in an air fryer before preheating, doesn’t give your food the same effect.

Read More on Clean Plates

• Are Air Fryers Worth It? Experts Weigh In
• Kitchen Appliances That Help You Eat Healthier
• 9 Healthy Air Fryer Recipes We’re Loving Right Now