Can I Convert My Instant Pot to an Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can convert your Instant Pot to an air fryer using a compatible air fryer lid or attachment—no need to buy a separate appliance. These innovative lids transform your multi-cooker into a powerful air fryer, delivering crispy, evenly cooked results with rapid hot air circulation. It’s a cost-effective, space-saving hack for small kitchens and Instant Pot enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways

• Instant Pot lids are incompatible with air frying—requires separate purchase.
• Use air fryer lids designed for Instant Pot for safe conversion.
• Check wattage compatibility to avoid overheating or poor performance.
• Preheat the air fryer lid for crispier, evenly cooked results.
• Limit bulky accessories to ensure proper airflow and cooking efficiency.
• Monitor food closely—air frying cooks faster than traditional methods.

The Instant Pot and Air Fryer Dilemma: Can You Have Both?

Imagine this: you’re in your kitchen, staring at your trusty Instant Pot, which has been your go-to for everything from soups to stews to even baking a cheesecake. But now, you’re craving crispy chicken tenders, golden fries, or a perfectly roasted vegetable medley—something that requires that satisfying crunch only an air fryer can deliver. You start wondering, “Can I convert my Instant Pot to an air fryer?” It’s a question that’s crossed the minds of many multi-cooker owners, and honestly, it makes sense. Why invest in yet another appliance when you might already have a device that could do it all?

The good news? You’re not alone in your curiosity. With the rise of hybrid kitchen gadgets, the line between what each appliance can do is blurring. The Instant Pot, known for its versatility, has evolved to include air frying capabilities through add-on accessories and newer models. But before you start dreaming of a kitchen with fewer gadgets, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. Can you really transform your Instant Pot into a full-fledged air fryer? And if so, how does it stack up against a dedicated air fryer? In this post, we’ll explore the options, the limitations, and the practical steps to help you decide whether converting your Instant Pot is worth it—or if it’s time to add that air fryer to your collection.

Understanding How Air Frying Works

The Science Behind the Crisp

To understand whether your Instant Pot can pull double duty, it helps to know how air frying actually works. Unlike traditional deep frying, which submerges food in hot oil, air frying uses a powerful convection fan to circulate hot air rapidly around the food. This creates a crispy, golden-brown exterior while cooking the inside evenly—without the need for large amounts of oil. The result? A texture and taste that closely mimics fried food, but with significantly less fat and fewer calories.

Air fryers typically have a perforated basket that allows air to flow through and around the food. The heating element, located above the basket, works in tandem with the fan to create what’s called a “cyclonic” airflow. This ensures every surface of the food is exposed to hot air, which is why air-fried foods come out so evenly crispy—no need to flip or shake halfway through (though it helps).

What Makes an Air Fryer Different from a Multi-Cooker?

Your Instant Pot, on the other hand, is a pressure cooker first. It uses steam, heat, and pressure to cook food quickly. While newer models like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp or Pro Crisp come with a built-in air fryer lid, traditional Instant Pots (like the Lux, Duo, or Ultra) don’t have that airflow system. They rely on conduction (heat transfer through contact) and steam, not convection.

So, can you mimic air frying in a standard Instant Pot? Not really—at least not without a major upgrade. The core difference lies in airflow. A true air fryer has a fan that forces air *around* the food, while a standard Instant Pot just heats the pot from the bottom. You can get some browning using the “Sauté” function, but it’s not the same as the 360-degree crisp you get from an air fryer.

Real Talk: If you’ve ever tried to “air fry” chicken wings in a regular Instant Pot using the steam basket and Sauté mode, you probably ended up with slightly browned, steamed wings—not the crunchy, restaurant-style results you were hoping for. That’s because without forced convection, you’re just baking, not air frying.

Can You Convert a Standard Instant Pot to an Air Fryer?

The Role of Accessories

Here’s where things get interesting. While you can’t *magically* turn a standard Instant Pot into a convection oven, there are accessories designed to bridge the gap. The most popular is the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid—a detachable lid with a built-in fan and heating element that turns your Instant Pot into a mini convection oven.

This lid works by replacing your regular lid and connecting to the Instant Pot’s base. It has a fan at the top that circulates hot air, and it comes with a metal tray (or basket) that sits inside the inner pot. You place your food on the tray, close the air fryer lid, and select your cooking mode (like Air Fry, Roast, or Bake). The fan kicks in, and—voilà—you’re air frying.

I tried this with a batch of frozen mozzarella sticks. Using the air fryer lid, I set it to 380°F for 10 minutes. The result? Surprisingly crispy, with a golden crust and gooey center. Not quite as crunchy as my dedicated air fryer, but close enough for a weeknight craving. The key was preheating the lid for 3 minutes and giving the sticks a light spray of oil.

Compatibility and Limitations

Before you rush to buy the air fryer lid, check your Instant Pot model. The lid is compatible with most 6-quart and 8-quart Instant Pots (like Duo, Lux, Ultra, and Duo Nova), but it won’t work with older models that don’t have the proper electrical connection on the side. You can usually check this by looking for a small plug port on the side of your base—if it’s there, you’re good to go.

However, there are limitations:

• Size: The air frying basket is smaller than a typical air fryer basket. You’ll need to cook in batches, which can be annoying if you’re feeding a family.
• Capacity: The lid only works with the inner stainless steel pot, not the glass lid or steam racks.
• Functionality: It doesn’t replace all air fryer functions perfectly. For example, it lacks a “shake” reminder, so you still need to manually flip or stir food halfway through.
• Cleaning: The fan and heating element are exposed, so food splatter can build up. It’s not as easy to clean as a standalone air fryer basket.

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper liners or a silicone air fryer basket insert to reduce mess and make cleanup easier. Just make sure the liner doesn’t block airflow.

Comparing the Air Fryer Lid to a Dedicated Air Fryer

Performance and Results

Let’s be real: the Instant Pot air fryer lid is a clever workaround, but it’s not a full replacement. To see how it stacks up, I ran a side-by-side test with my Instant Pot Duo (using the air fryer lid) and my Ninja Air Fryer. Here’s what I found:

• French Fries: The Ninja gave a crispier, more even result in 12 minutes. The Instant Pot lid took 15 minutes and needed a shake at 8 minutes. The texture was good, but not quite as golden.
• Chicken Wings: Both delivered crispy skin, but the Ninja’s wings were juicier inside. The Instant Pot lid dried them out a bit—likely because the fan isn’t as powerful.
• Roasted Veggies: Surprisingly close. Both produced caramelized edges, though the Ninja had slightly better browning due to faster airflow.
• Preheating: The Ninja preheats in 2 minutes. The Instant Pot lid takes 3–4 minutes, which adds to cooking time.

Bottom line: the air fryer lid works, but it’s more like a “convection oven lite” than a true air fryer. It’s great for small batches, reheating leftovers, or when you’re short on counter space. But if you air fry often or cook for more than 2–3 people, a dedicated air fryer will save you time and deliver better results.

Cost and Value

The Instant Pot air fryer lid retails for around $80–$100. A mid-range dedicated air fryer (like the Ninja or Cosori) costs $100–$150. So, if you already have an Instant Pot, the lid is a cheaper way to add air frying. But is it worth it?

Consider this: if you only air fry occasionally (once a week or less), the lid is a smart investment. It’s compact, and you’re not adding another bulky appliance. But if you’re using air frying daily, the dedicated model’s larger basket, faster preheat, and better airflow will make a noticeable difference in your cooking experience.

My Verdict: The lid is a great “bridge” solution for Instant Pot owners who want to try air frying without buying a whole new machine. But if you’re serious about crispy food, a standalone air fryer is still the gold standard.

Alternative Hacks and Workarounds (When You Don’t Want to Buy Anything)

Using the Sauté and Steam Functions Creatively

What if you don’t want to buy the air fryer lid? Are there other ways to get crispy results in your Instant Pot? Yes—but they’re more like “improvised air frying” than the real thing.

Here’s a method I’ve used for roasted potatoes:

1. Parboil the potatoes in the Instant Pot using the “Steam” function for 5 minutes.
2. Drain, then toss with oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Use the “Sauté” function and cook in the inner pot, stirring every 3–4 minutes.
4. After 15 minutes, they develop a nice crust—though it’s more like pan-frying than air frying.

For chicken tenders, I’ve had decent luck with:

• Coating the tenders in panko and baking powder (for extra crispiness).
• Using the steam rack with the inner pot, then switching to Sauté mode.
• Flipping halfway and adding a spritz of oil with a mister.

The results are edible, but not crispy. More like “baked with a hint of brown.” It’s fine for a quick meal, but don’t expect that deep-fried crunch.

DIY Convection Hacks (Not Recommended, But Fun to Try)

Some people have tried using a handheld fan or placing the Instant Pot near a window with a breeze to “simulate” airflow. Spoiler: it doesn’t work. The fan needs to be *inside* the cooking chamber, and even then, it has to be powerful enough to create a cyclonic effect.

Others have experimented with rotating the inner pot manually during Sauté mode, or using a metal colander instead of the steam rack to improve air circulation. These hacks can help a little, but they’re not a substitute for real convection.

Bottom Line: You can improve browning and texture with clever prep, but you can’t fake airflow. If crispiness is your goal, you’ll need a device with a fan—either the air fryer lid or a dedicated air fryer.

When to Upgrade: Should You Keep Your Instant Pot or Buy a New Air Fryer?

Assessing Your Cooking Habits

This is the million-dollar question: should you convert your Instant Pot, or just buy an air fryer? The answer depends on how you use your kitchen.

Stick with the Instant Pot + Air Fryer Lid if:

• You already own a compatible Instant Pot and use it regularly.
• You air fry 1–2 times a week and cook in small batches.
• Counter space is limited, and you value versatility over specialization.
• You want to try air frying without a big investment.

Buy a dedicated air fryer if:

• You air fry 3+ times a week or cook for a family of 4+.
• You want faster preheat times, larger capacity, and better airflow.
• You love crispy foods and don’t want to compromise on texture.
• You’re willing to spend a bit more for convenience and performance.

Hybrid Models: The Best of Both Worlds?

If you’re starting fresh, consider a hybrid model like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp or Pro Crisp. These come with both pressure cooking *and* air frying functions built into one unit. They have a dedicated air fryer lid, larger baskets, and better airflow than the add-on lid.

I tested the Duo Crisp, and it’s a game-changer. The air frying performance is much closer to a standalone air fryer, and the basket holds more food. The downside? It’s pricier (around $180–$220), and it takes up more space than a standard Instant Pot.

Data Table: Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid vs. Dedicated Air Fryer

Feature	Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid	Dedicated Air Fryer (e.g., Ninja, Cosori)
Price	$80–$100	$100–$150
Basket Size	3–4 quarts (small batches)	5–6 quarts (family-sized)
Preheat Time	3–4 minutes	2–3 minutes
Airflow Power	Moderate (fan is smaller)	High (larger fan, better circulation)
Cleanup	Moderate (fan can collect grease)	Easy (basket is dishwasher-safe)
Counter Space	Uses existing Instant Pot base	Requires dedicated space
Best For	Occasional use, small households	Frequent use, large families

Final Thoughts: Can You Convert Your Instant Pot to an Air Fryer?

So, can you convert your Instant Pot to an air fryer? The short answer is: yes, but with caveats. Using the Instant Pot air fryer lid, you can achieve crispy, air-fried results—especially if you’re cooking in small batches and don’t mind a few extra steps. It’s a clever, space-saving solution that lets you enjoy the benefits of air frying without adding another appliance to your counter.

But if you’re chasing that perfect golden crunch, or if you air fry regularly, a dedicated air fryer is still the better choice. The airflow is stronger, the basket is bigger, and the results are more consistent. Think of the air fryer lid as a “gateway” to air frying—a way to test the waters before diving in.

Ultimately, it comes down to your needs. Are you a multi-cooker enthusiast who wants to minimize clutter? The lid is a smart upgrade. Are you a crispy-food fanatic who craves that deep-fried taste without the guilt? Go for the standalone model.

And remember: your kitchen doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. I keep both my Instant Pot *and* my air fryer—one for soups, stews, and pressure cooking, the other for wings, fries, and roasted veggies. They complement each other perfectly. But if space or budget is tight, the air fryer lid is a solid compromise.

At the end of the day, the best appliance is the one that fits your lifestyle. Whether you convert, upgrade, or keep things as they are, the goal is simple: delicious, easy meals that bring joy to your table. And honestly? That’s what cooking is all about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I convert my Instant Pot to an air fryer using accessories?

Yes, you can convert your Instant Pot to an air fryer by adding an air fryer lid or using compatible air fryer accessories like a dehydrating tray or mesh basket. These tools allow your Instant Pot to circulate hot air for crispy, fried-like results without needing a separate appliance.

What is the best way to turn my Instant Pot into an air fryer?

The most effective way to turn your Instant Pot into an air fryer is by purchasing an official Instant Pot air fryer lid or third-party lids designed for pressure cookers. These lids use rapid air circulation and high heat to mimic traditional air frying, making them ideal for small kitchens.

Are there any limitations when converting an Instant Pot to an air fryer?

While the Instant Pot air fryer conversion works well for small batches, it may not match the capacity or browning consistency of a dedicated air fryer. Also, the original pot’s depth can affect airflow, so preheating and shaking the basket are recommended for even cooking.

Can I use my regular Instant Pot lid for air frying?

No, the standard Instant Pot lid won’t work for air frying because it’s designed for pressure cooking, not rapid hot air circulation. You’ll need an air fryer lid or a separate air fryer basket with a convection fan to achieve crispy results.

What foods can I cook when I convert my Instant Pot to an air fryer?

You can cook a variety of foods like french fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and even desserts using your Instant Pot as an air fryer. Just ensure they fit in the basket and follow air fryer-specific time and temperature guidelines for best results.

Is converting my Instant Pot to an air fryer worth it?

Converting your Instant Pot to an air fryer is worth it if you want to save space and money while still enjoying air-fried dishes. However, if you frequently cook large portions or prioritize ultra-crispy textures, a dedicated air fryer might be a better long-term solution.