Can I Cook Pizza in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can cook pizza in an air fryer—and it delivers crispy, golden results in minutes, often faster than a conventional oven. From frozen to homemade, the air fryer handles all pizza types perfectly, making it a quick, energy-efficient option for delicious, evenly cooked slices every time.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook pizza in an air fryer—it’s fast, crispy, and requires minimal preheating.
• Use parchment paper or a liner to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup after cooking.
• Pre-cooked crusts work best to avoid undercooked centers or burnt edges in thin air fryer baskets.
• Cook at 375°F–400°F for 5–8 minutes for optimal browning and melted cheese every time.
• Don’t overload toppings—excess weight can make pizza soggy and unevenly cooked.
• Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to restore crispiness without drying out the pizza.

Can I Cook Pizza in an Air Fryer? The Ultimate Guide

Picture this: it’s Friday night. You’re craving pizza, but you don’t want to wait 30 minutes for delivery or deal with a hot, oven-heavy kitchen. You glance at your air fryer—sitting there like a tiny, unassuming kitchen hero—and wonder: *Can I cook pizza in an air fryer?*

Great question. And yes, the answer is a resounding **yes**—with some caveats, tips, and a few “aha!” moments along the way. I’ve tested frozen pizzas, homemade dough, reheating leftovers, and even gourmet toppings in my air fryer over the past year, and I’ve learned more than I expected. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about speed, crispiness, and making your kitchen work smarter. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who just hates waiting, cooking pizza in an air fryer might be your new go-to. But before you toss a frozen pepperoni pizza in and hit “start,” let’s dive into the *how*, the *why*, and the *what to avoid* so you get perfect results every time.

How Air Fryers Work and Why They’re Great for Pizza

The Science Behind the Crisp

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. A heating element at the top warms the air, and a powerful fan pushes it down and around the food at high speed. This creates a convection effect—similar to a convection oven—but in a much smaller space. The result? Food cooks faster and gets crispy on the outside while staying moist inside.

For pizza, this is a game-changer. Traditional ovens take 10–15 minutes to preheat and another 12–18 minutes to cook a pizza. An air fryer can preheat in 2–3 minutes and cook in 8–12 minutes. That’s a **50% time savings**—and less heat in your kitchen.

The intense airflow also helps the crust crisp up without drying out the toppings. Unlike microwaves, which leave pizza soggy, or ovens, which can overcook edges while undercooking the center, air fryers offer a more balanced heat distribution. It’s not perfect—but it’s pretty darn close.

Size Matters: Air Fryer Capacity and Pizza Diameter

Most standard air fryers range from 3.5 to 6 quarts. That’s important because **pizza size must match your air fryer basket**. A 12-inch pizza won’t fit in a 3.5-quart model, and even a 9-inch might be too tight depending on the basket shape.

Here’s a quick rule of thumb:

• 3.5–4.5 quarts: Best for 6–7 inch personal pizzas or small flatbreads.
• 5–6 quarts: Can handle 8–9 inch pizzas (common for frozen mini pizzas).
• 6+ quarts or dual-basket models: Can fit 10-inch pizzas, but check the basket shape—round baskets are better than square ones for even cooking.

I once tried cooking an 8-inch frozen pizza in a 3.7-quart air fryer. The crust stuck out, and the edges burned while the center stayed doughy. Lesson learned: **measure your basket and choose your pizza size accordingly**.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: A Quick Comparison

You might wonder: *Why not just use the oven?* Here’s the breakdown:

• Time: Air fryer wins. Preheat + cook = 10–15 minutes vs. 25–35 minutes in a standard oven.
• Energy use: Air fryers use about 1.2–1.5 kWh per hour, while ovens use 2–3 kWh. That’s a 40–50% energy savings.
• Cleanup: Air fryer baskets are easier to clean than oven trays, especially if you use parchment liners.
• Evenness: Ovens win for large pizzas, but air fryers do better with smaller, thinner crusts.

So if you’re cooking for one or two, or just want a quick snack, the air fryer is a smart choice. For a 14-inch family-style pizza, stick with the oven.

Best Types of Pizza to Cook in an Air Fryer

Frozen Pizzas: The Go-To Convenience Pick

Frozen pizzas are the most popular option for air fryer cooking—and for good reason. They’re pre-portioned, easy to store, and designed for even cooking. I’ve tested everything from DiGiorno to Trader Joe’s mini pizzas, and here’s what works:

• Mini or personal-sized pizzas (6–7 inches): These fit perfectly in 4–5 quart air fryers. Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. The crust gets crispy, and the cheese bubbles without burning.
• Thin-crust frozen pizzas: Better than thick-crust in air fryers. The intense heat can dry out thick crusts, but thin crusts crisp up beautifully.
• Brands to try: Tombstone, Freschetta (thin crust), and Trader Joe’s “Pizza al Taglio.”

One tip: **Don’t thaw first**. Cooking from frozen prevents soggy centers. Just place it directly in the basket and follow the time guidelines below.

Homemade Pizza: From Dough to Delicious

Yes, you can make *homemade* pizza in an air fryer! I was skeptical at first, but it’s totally doable—especially if you use store-bought dough or a simple no-rise recipe.

Here’s my go-to method:

1. Roll out dough to fit your air fryer basket (6–7 inches for smaller models).
2. Place on a parchment round or lightly greased air fryer liner.
3. Add sauce, cheese, and toppings (keep it light—air fryers struggle with heavy loads).
4. Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

I tried a homemade margherita pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes. The crust was crisp on the bottom and slightly chewy inside—just like a wood-fired oven. The only downside? The tomatoes released moisture and made the top a bit soggy. Next time, I’ll roast them separately or use less sauce.

Reheating Leftover Pizza: Crispy, Not Soggy

Reheating pizza in a microwave is a crime against humanity. It turns crust into rubber and cheese into a sad, melted blob. But an air fryer? It’s a redemption arc.

To reheat leftover pizza:

• Place slices in the air fryer basket (don’t stack).
• Cook at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
• For extra crisp, add 1–2 minutes.

The result? Crust crisps up, cheese reheats evenly, and the pizza tastes almost as good as fresh. I reheated a slice of deep-dish pizza this way, and my roommate thought I ordered new delivery. That’s the power of the air fryer.

Alternative Pizza Options: Flatbreads, Pita, and More

Not all “pizza” needs to be traditional. Try these creative options:

• Flatbread pizza: Use pre-made flatbreads (like Stonefire or naan). Add toppings and cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes. Perfect for quick lunches.
• Pita pizza: Split a pita, add sauce and cheese, and cook for 5–6 minutes. Great for kids or snack-sized portions.
• English muffin pizza: A classic. Toast first, then add toppings and air fry for 4–5 minutes.

These are ideal for air fryers because they’re small, thin, and cook quickly. Plus, they’re fun to customize!

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Pizza in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Always preheat. This ensures even cooking from the start. Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it run for 2–3 minutes. I once skipped this step with a frozen pizza—the center was doughy, and the edges were overdone. Preheating is non-negotiable.

Step 2: Prepare the Basket

Use a parchment liner or lightly spray the basket with oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I prefer parchment because it’s reusable (if not too greasy) and doesn’t smoke like oil can at high temps.

For homemade pizza, roll the dough directly onto the liner. For frozen pizzas, place them on a liner or use a silicone mat.

Step 3: Add Toppings (If Homemade)

Less is more. Air fryers have less vertical space than ovens, so heavy toppings can block airflow and cook unevenly. Stick to:

• 1–2 tablespoons of sauce (avoid pooling).
• Light cheese (mozzarella, provolone—avoid wet cheeses like ricotta).
• Thinly sliced toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers).

I learned this the hard way when I loaded up a pizza with sausage, olives, and extra cheese. The center was raw, and the edges were charcoal. Now I keep it simple.

Step 4: Set Time and Temperature

Here’s a quick guide for common pizza types:

Pizza Type	Size	Temperature	Time	Notes
Frozen (thin crust)	6–7 inch	375°F	8–10 min	Flip halfway for even browning (optional)
Frozen (thick crust)	7–8 inch	360°F	10–12 min	Lower temp to prevent burning edges
Homemade (thin crust)	6–7 inch	375°F	8–10 min	Check at 7 min—toppings cook fast
Reheating (leftover)	1–2 slices	350°F	3–4 min	No preheat needed
Flatbread/pita	6 inch	375°F	5–7 min	Watch closely—cooks fast

Pro tip: **Check at the halfway point**. Open the basket, peek at the crust, and rotate the pizza 180 degrees if needed. This helps with even browning.

Step 5: Remove and Rest

Use tongs or a spatula to remove the pizza. Let it rest for 1–2 minutes. This allows the cheese to set and prevents burns. I once grabbed a hot pizza straight out of the basket—my fingers paid the price. Learn from my mistakes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

One of the biggest mistakes? Trying to cook two pizzas at once. Air fryers rely on airflow. If you block it, the pizza won’t cook evenly. I tried stacking two English muffin pizzas—the top one was burnt, the bottom one was cold.

Solution: Cook one pizza at a time. If you’re feeding a crowd, batch-cook and keep pizzas warm in a low oven (200°F) or covered with foil.

Ignoring Moisture from Toppings

Fresh veggies, wet cheeses, and thick sauces release moisture during cooking. This can make the crust soggy. I once added fresh spinach to a homemade pizza—it turned into a watery mess.

Fix it:

• Pat veggies dry before adding.
• Use pre-cooked toppings (e.g., sauté mushrooms first).
• Blot excess sauce with a paper towel.

Setting the Wrong Temperature

Too hot? Crust burns. Too low? Pizza is doughy. Stick to 350–375°F for most pizzas. For thick-crust or deep-dish, go as low as 360°F and extend time slightly.

One time, I set my air fryer to 400°F for a frozen pizza. The crust turned black in 5 minutes. Oops.

Not Using a Liner or Oil

Without a liner, cheese and sauce can stick to the basket, making cleanup a nightmare. I once had to soak my basket for an hour after a cheese explosion. Now I always use parchment.

If you don’t have liners, lightly spray the basket with oil—but don’t overdo it. Too much oil can smoke.

Skipping the Rest Time

Hot pizza straight from the air fryer is a burn hazard. And the cheese is molten lava. Let it rest for 1–2 minutes. Trust me—it’s worth the wait.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Pizza

Upgrade Your Crust

For extra crispiness, brush the crust with a little olive oil or melted butter before cooking. Or sprinkle with garlic powder, parmesan, or dried oregano. It adds flavor and helps with browning.

I tried this with a frozen garlic knot pizza—game-changer. The crust was golden and garlicky, not pale and bland.

Add a Crispy Cheese Edge (Optional)

Love that crispy cheese edge from a wood-fired oven? You can get it in an air fryer. After the pizza is done, sprinkle a little extra cheese on the crust and air fry for 1–2 more minutes. The edges will crisp up beautifully.

Use a Meat Thermometer (For Precision)

If you’re unsure if the center is cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the pizza. The internal temp should be at least 165°F for safety—especially with meat toppings.

Experiment with Toppings

Air fryers handle most toppings well, but some work better than others:

• Great: Pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, cooked sausage.
• Use sparingly: Fresh spinach, tomatoes, wet cheeses (ricotta, feta).
• Pre-cook first: Bacon, chicken, onions, pineapple (to remove moisture).

Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly

Grease and food particles can build up and affect flavor. Wash the basket and tray after every use. For stubborn residue, soak in warm, soapy water or use a baking soda paste.

I clean mine weekly, but if I cook pizza often, I do it after every use. It keeps my air fryer tasting fresh.

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Pizza Worth It?

So, can you cook pizza in an air fryer? Absolutely. Is it perfect? No—but it’s fast, energy-efficient, and delivers surprisingly crispy results. It’s not a replacement for your oven when cooking large pizzas, but for personal-sized, frozen, or leftover slices, it’s a kitchen superstar.

I’ve used mine to:

• Cook a 7-inch frozen pizza in 10 minutes (including preheat).
• Reheat leftover pizza so well, my partner couldn’t tell it wasn’t fresh.
• Make a quick flatbread pizza for a midnight snack—no mess, no wait.

The key is managing expectations. Air fryer pizza won’t have the same depth of flavor as a wood-fired oven, but it’s close enough for most cravings—and way faster. Plus, you’re not heating up your entire kitchen.

So go ahead, toss that frozen pizza in, set the timer, and enjoy a hot, crispy slice in under 15 minutes. Your future self (and your hungry stomach) will thank you.

And remember: the best tool is the one you use. If your air fryer gets you eating more home-cooked meals, more power to it. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook pizza in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook pizza in an air fryer! The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation creates a crispy crust and evenly melted toppings in less time than a conventional oven.

What types of pizza work best in an air fryer?

Pre-made frozen pizzas, store-bought dough, or personal-sized homemade pizzas cook well in an air fryer. Avoid oversized pizzas that won’t fit or block airflow.

How long does it take to cook pizza in an air fryer?

Most pizzas cook in 8–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on thickness and toppings. Check halfway through to avoid overcooking the crust.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer for pizza?

Preheating for 3–5 minutes ensures a crispier crust, especially for homemade or thin-crust pizzas. Skipping this step may result in a softer, less golden base.

Can I cook a frozen pizza in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen pizza cooks perfectly in an air fryer. Follow package instructions, but reduce cooking time by 2–3 minutes since air fryers heat more efficiently.

How do I prevent my air fryer pizza from drying out?

Brush the crust with olive oil or butter before cooking, and avoid overcooking. For extra moisture, add sauce or cheese to the top during the last 2 minutes.