Can You Reheat Pizza in Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can reheat pizza in an air fryer—and it’s one of the best ways to restore its crispy crust and melty cheese. The air fryer’s rapid, even heat outperforms microwaves by reviving leftovers in just 3–5 minutes without sogginess. For optimal results, use a low temperature (325–350°F) and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can reheat pizza in an air fryer—it restores crispiness better than a microwave.
• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for even, consistent reheating without sogginess.
• Use aluminum foil or a basket liner to prevent cheese from sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Reheat for 3-5 minutes—check often to avoid burning delicate toppings or crust.
• Add a splash of water to the basket to prevent overly dry, tough reheated slices.
• Store leftover pizza properly—airtight in the fridge—for best air fryer reheating results.

Can You Reheat Pizza in Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like that first bite of a fresh, hot slice of pizza. But what happens when you’re left with a few cold, sad slices the next day? The microwave seems like the go-to, but it often turns your pizza into a rubbery, soggy mess. Enter the air fryer: your kitchen’s unsung hero for crispy, reheated pizza that tastes almost as good as it did straight from the oven. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you reheat pizza in an air fryer?” the answer is a resounding yes—and it might just be the best way to do it.

As someone who’s reheated countless slices (and learned a few hard lessons along the way), I can tell you the air fryer is a game-changer. It’s fast, efficient, and gives you that crispy crust without drying out the toppings. Whether you’re dealing with leftover Domino’s, homemade deep-dish, or even frozen pizza, the air fryer can bring it back to life. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the science behind why it works to step-by-step instructions, tips, and even a few mistakes to avoid. So grab that leftover slice and let’s get started!

Why the Air Fryer Is the Best Way to Reheat Pizza

How the Air Fryer Works

The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly. Unlike a microwave, which heats food from the inside out using radiation, the air fryer mimics the effects of a convection oven. This means it crisps the outside while keeping the inside moist—perfect for pizza. The hot air moves around the slice, heating the cheese, toppings, and crust simultaneously without making the base soggy. It’s like giving your pizza a second life in a mini oven.

Advantages Over Other Methods

Let’s compare the air fryer to other common reheating methods:

• Microwave: Fast, but often leaves the crust limp and the cheese rubbery. The moisture gets trapped, creating steam that sogifies your pizza.

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• Oven: Great for larger quantities, but it takes longer (10-15 minutes) and requires preheating. Not ideal for a quick snack.
• Skillet: A good option for crispy crusts, but it can be messy and requires constant attention to avoid burning.
• Toaster oven: Similar to the air fryer but slower and less efficient at circulating air.

The air fryer wins because it’s fast (3-5 minutes), energy-efficient (no preheating), and consistent (no hot spots). Plus, it’s versatile—you can reheat pizza, chicken wings, or even fries with the same device.

Real-Life Example

I once tried reheating a leftover slice of pepperoni pizza in the microwave. Two minutes later, the cheese was bubbling but the crust was a sad, floppy mess. Frustrated, I popped it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. The result? A crispy, golden crust and perfectly melted cheese. My roommate, who’d written off reheated pizza forever, was convinced after one bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reheating Pizza in an Air Fryer

Preparing Your Pizza

Before you start, make sure your pizza is ready for reheating:

• Remove excess grease: If your pizza is greasy (looking at you, extra-cheese slices), blot it with a paper towel. Too much oil can smoke in the air fryer.
• Single layer: Don’t stack slices. Overcrowding prevents even heating and can lead to soggy spots.
• Room temperature: Let the pizza sit out for 5-10 minutes if it’s been in the fridge. Cold slices take longer to reheat and may dry out.

Pro tip: For thin-crust pizza, place it directly in the basket. For thick or deep-dish slices, use a small oven-safe dish or parchment paper to prevent the bottom from burning.

Setting the Temperature and Time

The key to perfect reheated pizza is the right balance of heat and time. Here’s a general guideline:

• Thin-crust pizza: 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
• Thick or deep-dish pizza: 325°F (160°C) for 4-5 minutes.
• Frozen pizza: 375°F (190°C) for 5-6 minutes (check the package for specifics).

Start with the lower end of the time range. You can always add 30 seconds if it’s not hot enough. Overcooking is the enemy—it dries out the cheese and makes the crust hard.

Monitoring and Flipping (Optional)

Most air fryers don’t require flipping, but for extra-crispy crusts or thicker slices, you can flip the pizza halfway through. Use tongs to gently turn it over. This ensures even heating on both sides. Just be careful—hot cheese is sticky!

Example: Reheating a New York-Style Slice

Here’s how I reheat my favorite NY-style slice:

1. Place the slice in the air fryer basket.
2. Set to 350°F (175°C).
3. Reheat for 3 minutes.
4. Check for crispiness. If the top needs more color, add 30 seconds.
5. Enjoy with a side of marinara sauce!

The result? A crust that’s crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside, and toppings that are hot but not overcooked.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Even the best air fryer can’t fix a bad reheat if you make these errors:

• Overcrowding: Don’t try to reheat multiple slices at once unless your air fryer is large. It’ll steam them instead of crisping.
• Too high heat: Starting at 400°F (205°C) might seem like a shortcut, but it’ll burn the cheese before the crust heats through.
• Skipping the pre-check: Always inspect your pizza for loose toppings (like pepperoni) that might fall off during reheating. Tuck them in or use a toothpick to secure them.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Want to take your reheated pizza to the next level? Try these hacks:

• Add moisture: For dry slices, spritz the top with a little water or olive oil before reheating. It keeps the cheese from drying out.
• Extra toppings: Add fresh basil, arugula, or a drizzle of hot honey after reheating for a gourmet touch.
• Cheese boost: Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top and let it melt for a gooey upgrade.

Special Cases: Reheating Different Types of Pizza

Not all pizzas are created equal. Here’s how to handle specific styles:

• Deep-dish or stuffed crust: Lower the temperature (325°F/160°C) and increase time (5-6 minutes) to prevent burning.
• Thin and crispy: Keep the heat high (350°F/175°C) and time short (2-3 minutes) to avoid overcooking.
• Vegetable-heavy: Veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers release moisture. Pat them dry first or reheat at 325°F (160°C) to avoid sogginess.
• Meat lovers: Greasy meats (bacon, sausage) can smoke. Line the basket with parchment paper or use a drip tray.

How Long Does Reheated Pizza Last?

Storage and Reheating Multiple Times

Reheated pizza is safe to eat, but it’s best enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers after reheating:

• Store in the fridge: Place in an airtight container or wrap in foil. It’ll last 2-3 days.
• Reheat again: Yes, you can reheat pizza twice! Follow the same steps, but reduce time by 30 seconds to avoid drying.
• Freeze for later: Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Food Safety Tips

Never leave reheated pizza at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria grow rapidly in the “danger zone” (40°F-140°F/4°C-60°C). If you’re reheating for a party, keep it warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish.

Example: Reheating Frozen Pizza Slices

Found a half-eaten frozen pizza in your freezer? Here’s how to revive it:

1. Remove the slice and let it thaw for 10 minutes (optional but helps with even heating).
2. Place in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C).
3. Reheat for 5 minutes. Check for hot, bubbly cheese and a crisp crust.
4. Add 30 seconds if needed, but don’t overdo it.

The result? A slice that tastes almost as good as when it was first baked.

Data Table: Reheating Times for Different Pizzas

Pizza Type	Temperature	Time	Notes
Thin-crust (NY style)	350°F (175°C)	3-4 minutes	Flip halfway for extra crispness.
Thick/Deep-dish	325°F (160°C)	4-5 minutes	Use a dish to prevent burning.
Frozen pizza	375°F (190°C)	5-6 minutes	Check package instructions.
Vegetable-heavy	325°F (160°C)	3-4 minutes	Pat veggies dry first.
Meat lovers (greasy)	350°F (175°C)	3-4 minutes	Line basket with parchment.
Stuffed crust	325°F (160°C)	5-6 minutes	Lower heat to prevent burning.

Conclusion: The Air Fryer Pizza Revolution

So, can you reheat pizza in an air fryer? Absolutely—and it’s probably the best way to do it. From the crisp crust to the perfectly melted cheese, the air fryer delivers results that other methods just can’t match. It’s fast, easy, and gives you that “fresh out of the oven” taste without the wait.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who hates wasting food, the air fryer is your new best friend. Remember the key tips: use the right temperature, avoid overcrowding, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors. And if you’re reheating a tricky slice (like deep-dish or veggie-loaded), don’t stress—just adjust the time and temperature, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal.

Next time you’re staring at a cold slice of pizza, don’t reach for the microwave. Grab your air fryer, set it to the right settings, and enjoy a second helping that tastes just as good as the first. Your taste buds (and your leftovers) will thank you. Now go reheat that pizza and savor every crispy, cheesy bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you reheat pizza in air fryer without making it soggy?

Yes, reheating pizza in an air fryer is one of the best ways to retain its crispy crust. The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures even heating while preventing the sogginess common with microwaves.

What temperature should you use to reheat pizza in air fryer?

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes, depending on thickness. This temperature perfectly reheats the pizza without burning the cheese or toppings.

How do you reheat pizza in air fryer to make it crispy again?

Place the pizza in a single layer in the air fryer basket and heat for 3–4 minutes. For extra crispiness, lightly spritz the crust with oil before reheating.

Is it better to reheat pizza in air fryer or oven?

The air fryer is faster and more energy-efficient than an oven while achieving similar crispiness. Both work well, but the air fryer’s rapid air circulation gives it an edge for quick reheating.

Can you reheat multiple slices of pizza in air fryer at once?

Yes, but avoid overcrowding to ensure even heating. Reheat slices in a single layer, and add 1–2 extra minutes if stacking two layers (flip halfway through).

Can you reheat cold pizza in air fryer the next day?

Absolutely! Air fryers are ideal for reheating cold pizza, restoring its fresh-baked texture. Just follow the same time and temperature guidelines for best results.