Can I Reheat Pizza in the Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Yes, you can reheat pizza in the air fryer perfectly every time—it delivers a crispy crust and evenly melted cheese in just minutes. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes, and enjoy leftovers that taste as fresh as the first bite without sogginess or uneven heating.

Key Takeaways

• Reheat pizza in the air fryer for crispy crusts and evenly melted cheese every time.
• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for optimal reheating results.
• Use a single layer to ensure even heat distribution and avoid soggy slices.
• Reheat for 3-5 minutes to preserve texture without overcooking or drying out.
• Check pizza halfway to prevent burning and adjust time as needed.
• Add a splash of water to the basket to keep cheese from drying out.
• Avoid overcrowding to maintain crispiness and ensure consistent reheating performance.

The Pizza Dilemma: Why Reheating Matters

We’ve all been there: you order a delicious pizza, devour a few slices, and then face the inevitable question—what do you do with the leftovers? Tossing them in the microwave seems like the easiest option, but let’s be honest, the results are often disappointing. The crust turns soggy, the cheese gets rubbery, and the whole experience feels like a sad shadow of your original meal.

Enter the air fryer. This kitchen gadget has become a household favorite for everything from crispy french fries to perfectly cooked chicken wings. But can it work its magic on leftover pizza? Can I reheat pizza in the air fryer and actually enjoy it again? After testing, experimenting, and eating way too many pizza slices, I’ve discovered that yes—yes, you can. And with the right technique, your reheated pizza can taste just as good as it did on day one.

How the Air Fryer Works Its Magic on Pizza

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s take a moment to understand why the air fryer is such a game-changer for reheating pizza. Unlike the microwave, which uses radiation to heat food from the inside out (often leaving the crust limp and the toppings unevenly warmed), the air fryer circulates hot air around the food. This creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside warm and moist—exactly what you want for a perfect slice.

The Science Behind Crispy Reheating

The air fryer mimics the effect of a convection oven by using a powerful fan to push hot air at high speeds across the food. This process, known as convection, helps evaporate surface moisture quickly, which is why the crust gets that satisfying crunch. Meanwhile, the cheese and toppings heat evenly without drying out. Think of it like a mini pizza oven in your kitchen—minus the preheating time and energy bill.

For example, I once tried reheating a pepperoni pizza in my microwave. After two minutes, the center was hot, but the crust was rubbery, and the cheese had separated into greasy pools. In contrast, the same slice in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes came out with a golden, crisp crust, melty cheese, and even the pepperoni had a slight crisp to it. The difference was night and day.

Air Fryer vs. Other Methods: A Quick Comparison

• Microwave: Fast but soggy. Great for speed, terrible for texture.
• Oven: Reliable, but takes longer (10–15 minutes) and uses more energy.
• Skillet (Stovetop): Can work, but requires attention and oil to prevent sticking.
• Air Fryer: Fast (3–5 minutes), energy-efficient, and delivers restaurant-quality results.

While all methods can reheat pizza, the air fryer stands out because it balances speed, energy use, and texture better than the rest. It’s the Goldilocks of reheating—just right.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Reheat Pizza in the Air Fryer

Now that you know the why, let’s get into the how. Reheating pizza in the air fryer isn’t rocket science, but a few small tweaks can make a big difference in the final result. Here’s my tried-and-true method.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer (Yes, Really)

Preheating isn’t always necessary for air fryer cooking, but for pizza, it’s a game-changer. A preheated basket ensures the crust starts crisping immediately, reducing the risk of steaming. I set my air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3 minutes while I grab my leftover slices.

Pro tip: If your model doesn’t have a preheat setting, just run it empty for 3–4 minutes at your target temperature.

Step 2: Arrange the Slices Properly

Don’t overcrowd the basket. Place slices in a single layer, leaving a little space between them so air can circulate. If you’re reheating multiple slices, you might need to work in batches. I’ve made the mistake of stacking slices before—don’t do it. The bottom slice ends up soggy, and the top one dries out.

For larger pizzas, you might need to cut slices in half to fit them better. I’ve done this with deep-dish pizza, and it works surprisingly well.

Step 3: Set the Time and Temperature

Here’s where things get interesting. The ideal temperature and time depend on your pizza type:

• Thin-crust or New York-style: 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes
• Deep-dish or thick-crust: 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes
• Frozen pizza leftovers: 360°F (182°C) for 4 minutes

Start at the lower end of the range and check frequently. Air fryers vary in power, so your first attempt might need slight adjustments. I once left a slice in for 6 minutes at 375°F—it came out more like a cracker than a pizza. Learn from my mistakes!

Step 4: Flip or Not to Flip?

For thin-crust pizza, you usually don’t need to flip. The air circulates enough to heat both sides. But for thick or deep-dish slices, flipping halfway through helps the top cheese and toppings get that golden, melty finish. I flip mine after 2 minutes and then let it go for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Check and Serve

Pull the basket out and take a peek. The crust should be golden and crisp, the cheese bubbly, and the toppings warmed through. If it needs a little more time, add 30-second increments to avoid overcooking.

Serve immediately. I’ve learned the hard way that even a 2-minute delay can make the crust lose its crispness. Eat it while it’s hot!

Tips for Different Types of Pizza

Not all pizzas are created equal, and neither are their reheating needs. Whether you’re working with a classic pepperoni, a veggie-loaded slice, or a gourmet white pizza, here’s how to adapt the method.

Thin-Crust Pizza (New York, Neapolitan)

These are the easiest to reheat. Their light, crispy crust responds beautifully to the air fryer’s heat. Stick to 375°F for 3–4 minutes. No need to flip. I’ve reheated a 3-day-old New York slice this way, and my roommate couldn’t tell it wasn’t fresh.

Bonus tip: If the crust is already a bit dry, place a small heat-safe ramekin of water in the corner of the basket. This adds a touch of steam to the interior without making the crust soggy.

Deep-Dish and Stuffed Crust Pizza

These are the heavyweights of the pizza world. The thick crust and dense toppings need a gentler approach. Lower the temperature to 350°F and give it 4–5 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even heating.

I once reheated a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza this way. The crust stayed soft and buttery, the cheese was perfectly melted, and the sausage retained its juiciness. It was so good, I forgot I was eating leftovers.

Vegetable and Meat-Loaded Pizzas

Heavy toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or extra meat can release moisture during reheating, making the crust soggy. To prevent this, preheat the air fryer a bit longer (4–5 minutes) to ensure maximum heat. You can also pat excess moisture off the toppings with a paper towel before placing them in the basket.

For meat-heavy pizzas (like a loaded pepperoni or sausage), the air fryer actually enhances the flavor. The heat crisps the edges of the meat, giving it a delicious, almost charred taste—something you can’t get in a microwave.

Gluten-Free and Alternative Crusts

These crusts are often more delicate and can dry out quickly. Use a lower temperature (350°F) and shorter time (2–3 minutes). Watch closely—they go from perfect to cracker in seconds. I’ve reheated a cauliflower crust pizza this way, and it retained its texture better than when I tried it in the oven.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to sidestep them.

Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Basket

It’s tempting to throw in as many slices as you can, but overcrowding blocks airflow. The result? Uneven heating, soggy crusts, and frustration. Always use a single layer. If you’re feeding a crowd, do multiple batches. Your taste buds will thank you.

Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Temperature

Too high, and you’ll burn the crust. Too low, and you’ll steam it. Stick to the ranges I mentioned earlier, and adjust only if your air fryer runs hot or cold (which some do). I’ve found that my older model runs a bit hotter, so I reduce the temperature by 10–15°F to compensate.

Mistake 3: Forgetting to Preheat

I get it—preheating feels like a waste of time when you’re hungry. But for pizza, it’s crucial. A cold basket means the crust starts steaming before it crisps, leading to a limp slice. Preheat for 3 minutes. It’s worth the wait.

Mistake 4: Reheating for Too Long

Air fryers are fast. A few extra seconds can turn a perfect slice into a charred mess. Check at the 2-minute mark, especially for thin-crust pizza. If it’s not ready, add time in 30-second increments. I’ve learned this the hard way—burnt pizza is a sad thing.

Mistake 5: Not Using a Trivet or Parchment Liner

Some air fryer models have baskets with large holes that can let small toppings (like pepperoni) fall through. To avoid this, use a trivet or parchment paper liner. Just make sure the paper doesn’t block airflow. I use a small piece with holes punched in it—works like a charm.

Data Table: Reheating Times and Temperatures

Here’s a quick-reference table to help you get it right every time. These are based on my testing with a 5.8-quart Ninja air fryer, but they should work for most standard models. Adjust slightly if your air fryer runs hot or cold.

Pizza Type	Temperature (°F/°C)	Time (Minutes)	Flip?	Notes
Thin-Crust (NY Style)	375°F (190°C)	3–4	No	Perfect for crispy, flaky crust
Thick-Crust (Pan Pizza)	350°F (175°C)	4–5	Yes (after 2 min)	Flip for even top heating
Deep-Dish	350°F (175°C)	4–5	Yes (after 2 min)	Lower temp prevents crust drying
Frozen Leftovers	360°F (182°C)	4	No	Ideal for store-bought pizza
Vegetable-Loaded	375°F (190°C)	3–4	No	Pat dry toppings first
Gluten-Free Crust	350°F (175°C)	2–3	No	Watch closely—can dry out fast
Meat-Heavy	375°F (190°C)	3–4	No	Meat gets crispier edges

Final Thoughts: The Air Fryer Is Your Leftover Pizza’s Best Friend

So, can I reheat pizza in the air fryer perfectly every time? The answer is a resounding yes—with a few caveats. It’s not magic, but it’s the closest thing to it. The air fryer gives you control, speed, and results that make your leftover pizza taste like it just came out of the oven.

I’ve gone from dreading leftover pizza to looking forward to it. There’s something satisfying about taking a forgotten slice from the fridge and turning it into a warm, crispy, melty delight in under five minutes. It’s a small kitchen hack, but it makes a big difference in your daily life.

Whether you’re reheating a simple cheese slice or a loaded gourmet pizza, the air fryer delivers. Just remember: preheat, don’t overcrowd, adjust for your pizza type, and watch the clock. Do that, and you’ll never settle for soggy microwave pizza again.

So the next time you have leftovers, skip the microwave and reach for your air fryer. Your taste buds—and your future self—will be glad you did.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reheat pizza in the air fryer without making it soggy?

Yes, you can reheat pizza in the air fryer to achieve a crispy crust and evenly warmed toppings. The air fryer’s circulating hot air removes moisture, preventing sogginess better than a microwave.

What’s the best way to reheat pizza in the air fryer?

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place a single slice in the basket, and heat for 3–5 minutes. For best results, lightly spray the crust with oil to restore crispness.

How long should I reheat pizza in the air fryer for?

Most pizza slices reheat perfectly in 3–5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Thicker crusts or loaded toppings may need an extra minute—check halfway to avoid overcooking.

Can I reheat multiple pizza slices in the air fryer at once?

Yes, but avoid overcrowding. Arrange slices in a single layer with space between them to ensure even reheating. Cook in batches if needed for optimal texture.

Will reheating pizza in the air fryer dry it out?

Not if you time it right! Keep the temperature at 350°F (175°C) and limit reheating to 5 minutes max. Adding a drop of water to the basket can help retain moisture.

Can I reheat deep-dish or frozen pizza in the air fryer?

Absolutely! For deep-dish, increase time to 6–8 minutes at 375°F (190°C). For frozen pizza, cook from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through.