How to Use an Air Fryer — Beginner's Guide
Published on 2026-05-15Marcus Webb
Learn how to use an air fryer with this complete beginner's guide. Covers setup, cooking basics, cleaning, and tips for the best results.
What Is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a compact convection oven that circulates hot air at high speed to cook food. It uses significantly less oil than deep-frying while producing similar crispy results. Air fryers work by combining a heating element with a powerful fan that blows hot air around the food in a basket, cooking it from all angles simultaneously.
Getting Started
When you first unbox your air fryer, wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water. Run the air fryer empty at 400°F for 10 minutes to burn off any manufacturing residue. Place it on a heat-resistant surface with at least 5 inches of clearance on all sides. Read the manual for your specific model's features and capacity limits.
Basic Cooking Principles
Air fryers cook 20-25% faster than conventional ovens. As a rule, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F and the cooking time by about 20%. Always preheat for 2-5 minutes for the best results. Do not overcrowd the basket — food needs space for air to circulate. Shake or flip food halfway through cooking for even browning.
What You Can Cook
You can cook almost anything in an air fryer: proteins (chicken, steak, fish, tofu), vegetables, frozen foods (fries, nuggets, spring rolls), and even baked goods (cookies, muffins). Some foods work better than others — wet batters don't work well, but breaded items crisp beautifully.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean the basket and tray after each use while still warm. Most baskets are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing extends their non-stick life. Wipe the heating element with a damp cloth monthly. Never use metal utensils or abrasive sponges on non-stick surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, preheating for 2-5 minutes gives the best results. It ensures food starts cooking immediately at the right temperature rather than warming up gradually.
Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
Yes, but only in the basket (not the bottom tray) and only if weighed down with food. Loose foil can fly into the heating element.
How much oil should I use?
Very little — usually 1-2 teaspoons or a quick spray. The air fryer's circulating hot air does most of the crisping work.
Want to convert your own recipes? Use our free air fryer calculator.
Air Fryer Calculator