Can You Make a Pizza in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can absolutely make a delicious pizza in an air fryer—it’s faster, crispier, and more energy-efficient than using a conventional oven. With the right technique and toppings, your air fryer delivers perfectly golden crusts and bubbling cheese in under 15 minutes, making it a game-changer for quick weeknight meals or crispy leftovers.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can! Air fryers make crispy, delicious pizza quickly and easily.
• Preheat for best results: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
• Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
• Adjust time & temp: Cook at 375°F for 8-12 minutes depending on size.
• Try frozen or fresh: Both work well—just monitor cooking time.
• Don’t overload toppings: Too many can make pizza soggy or uneven.

Can You Make a Pizza in an Air Fryer? Let’s Find Out

So, you’ve got an air fryer sitting on your countertop, and you’re wondering: *Can you make a pizza in an air fryer?* Maybe you’re craving that perfect slice but don’t want to wait for the oven to preheat or deal with a soggy crust. Or perhaps you’re just curious about whether this trendy kitchen gadget can handle one of life’s greatest pleasures—pizza. Well, you’re not alone! Thousands of home cooks are asking the same question, and the answer might surprise you.

Here’s the short version: Yes, you can absolutely make a pizza in an air fryer. It’s not just possible—it can be downright delicious when done right. But like any cooking method, there are tricks to mastering the technique. Whether you’re using store-bought dough, frozen pizza, or going full gourmet with homemade toppings, the air fryer can deliver crispy crusts, melty cheese, and evenly cooked toppings in record time. And the best part? No more waiting 20 minutes for your oven to heat up.

How Does an Air Fryer Cook Pizza?

Before we dive into recipes and tips, let’s get a clear picture of how an air fryer works its magic on pizza. Understanding the mechanics helps you avoid common mistakes and get consistent results every time.

The Science Behind Air Frying Pizza

An air fryer doesn’t actually “fry” anything. Instead, it uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food from all sides. A powerful fan pushes hot air around the food at high speed, creating a crispy exterior through the Maillard reaction—the same browning process that happens in deep fryers or ovens. For pizza, this means:

• Even heat distribution: No hot or cold spots like in some ovens.
• Faster cooking: Air fryers heat up in 2–3 minutes and cook pizza in 8–12 minutes, depending on size and thickness.
• Less oil needed: You can achieve a crispy crust without drowning your pizza in oil.

Think of it like a mini convection oven with turbocharged airflow. That’s why your crust gets that satisfying crunch without drying out the inside.

Size and Space Matter

Air fryers come in different sizes—typically 3 to 6 quarts. This directly affects what kind of pizza you can make. For example:

• A 3-quart model might only fit a 6-inch personal pizza.
• A 5–6 quart model can handle an 8–10 inch pizza, which is perfect for one or two people.
• Most air fryers have round baskets, so square or rectangular pizzas won’t fit well. Stick to round or smaller sizes.

Pro tip: If you have a larger air fryer (like a Ninja Foodi or Cosori 6-quart), you can even cook two small pizzas at once by stacking them with a trivet or using the crisper plate in the middle. Just rotate halfway for even cooking.

Preheating: Yes or No?

Most air fryer recipes recommend preheating, and pizza is no exception. Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the right temperature when your pizza goes in, leading to:

• Faster crust development
• Less chance of a soggy bottom
• Better browning on toppings

To preheat, simply set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. Then, add your pizza and start the timer. It’s that simple.

What Types of Pizza Work Best in an Air Fryer?

Now that you know how it works, let’s talk about what you can cook. The good news? Almost every type of pizza can be adapted for air frying. But some work better than others.

Frozen Pizza: A Quick Win

Got a frozen pepperoni pizza from the grocery store? You can air fry it—and often get better results than microwaving or oven-baking. Here’s how:

1. Remove the pizza from its cardboard base and any plastic wrap.
2. Place it directly on the air fryer basket or use parchment paper with holes cut for airflow.
3. Set to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes.
4. Check halfway: If the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden, you’re golden too.

One reader shared: *“I tried air frying a DiGiorno Rising Crust pizza. It was crispy on the outside, soft inside, and took half the time of my oven. My kids loved it!”*

Note: Avoid frozen pizzas with thick, doughy crusts (like deep-dish). They need more time and may not cook evenly. Stick to thin or medium crusts.

Store-Bought or Fresh Dough

Using store-bought pizza dough (from Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, or your local deli) is a game-changer. Roll it out to fit your air fryer basket, then build your pizza right on the dough. This method gives you control over thickness and crispiness.

• Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick for a crispy base.
• Lightly oil the dough before adding sauce to prevent sogginess.
• Use less sauce than you think—air fryers don’t evaporate moisture as fast as ovens.

Example: A 9-inch round dough ball rolled thin and topped with marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni cooks beautifully at 380°F for 9 minutes.

Homemade Mini Pizzas

Love customizing your pizza? The air fryer is perfect for mini versions. Try these ideas:

• Pita pizzas: Use whole wheat pita bread as a base. Add sauce, cheese, and toppings. Cook at 375°F for 6–7 minutes.
• Tortilla pizzas: Corn or flour tortillas work great. They crisp up fast and are gluten-free options.
• English muffin halves: A classic for kids. Top with sauce and cheese, then air fry for 5–6 minutes.

One mom told us: *“I make mini pizzas for my kids’ lunches. I air fry them ahead of time, let them cool, and pack them in bento boxes. They stay crispy!”*

Gluten-Free and Keto Options

Yes, even dietary-restricted pizzas can thrive in an air fryer. Try:

• Keto cauliflower crust: Use a pre-made or homemade cauliflower crust. Air fry at 375°F for 7–8 minutes, then add toppings and cook 2–3 minutes more.
• Gluten-free store-bought crusts: Look for brands like Schär or Caulipower. They crisp up nicely with a light brush of olive oil.

Tip: Gluten-free crusts can be more delicate. Place them on parchment paper to prevent sticking or breaking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Air Fryer Pizza

Ready to make your first air fryer pizza? Let’s walk through a foolproof method that works for most models and sizes. This is based on real user testing and kitchen experiments.

Step 1: Choose Your Base

Decide what you’re starting with:

• Frozen pizza
• Store-bought dough (rolled out)
• Pre-made crust (like Boboli)
• Tortilla, pita, or English muffin

For this guide, we’ll use a 9-inch store-bought dough ball, rolled to fit a 5.8-quart air fryer basket.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. This step is non-negotiable for crispy results.

Step 3: Prepare the Pizza

1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Aim for even thickness.
2. Place it on a piece of parchment paper cut to fit the basket (or use a liner with holes).
3. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil or garlic butter.
4. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of sauce—less than you’d use for oven pizza. Too much sauce = soggy bottom.
5. Sprinkle 1–1.5 cups shredded mozzarella. Don’t overdo it—cheese can burn or drip.
6. Add toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc. Keep them light and evenly spread.

Pro tip: For meaty toppings like sausage or bacon, pre-cook them first. Raw meat won’t cook fully in 8–10 minutes.

Step 4: Air Fry It

1. Carefully lower the pizza (with parchment) into the basket.
2. Set to 375°F and cook for 8 minutes.
3. After 8 minutes, check the pizza:
   • Is the crust golden?
   • Is the cheese bubbly and slightly browned?
   • Are toppings cooked through?
4. If needed, cook 1–2 minutes more. Avoid overcooking—air fryers are fast!

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the pizza sit for 1–2 minutes after cooking. This helps the cheese set and prevents burns. Slice and enjoy!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best steps, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix common problems:

• Soggy crust? → Preheat longer, use less sauce, or brush dough with oil.
• Burnt toppings? → Lower temperature to 360°F or cover with foil halfway.
• Uneven cooking? → Rotate the pizza halfway through cooking.
• Dough sticks? → Always use parchment or a non-stick liner.

Tips and Tricks for Air Fryer Pizza Mastery

Now that you’ve made your first pizza, let’s level up. These insider tips come from home cooks who’ve experimented for months—some even made it their weekend ritual.

Use the Right Tools

• Parchment paper with holes: Allows airflow while preventing sticking. Cut to fit your basket.
• Silicone liner: Reusable and non-stick. Great for eco-conscious cooks.
• Small pizza peel or spatula: Helps transfer the pizza without breaking it.

Optimize Toppings

Air fryers cook fast, so toppings need to be:

• Pre-cooked meats: Sausage, bacon, chicken—always cook first.
• Thinly sliced veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, onions—slice thin to prevent crunch.
• Cheese placement: Put cheese on top of sauce, not under it. This prevents burning.

One fan favorite combo: Marinara, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes (halved), basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking. It’s gourmet in under 10 minutes.

Experiment with Crusts

Try different textures:

• Thin crust: 6–8 minutes at 375°F. Crispy all the way through.
• Medium crust: 9–10 minutes. Slightly chewy inside.
• Deep dish (mini): Use a small oven-safe dish. Cook 12–15 minutes, but monitor closely.

Reheating Leftovers

Got leftover pizza? Don’t microwave it. Air fry it at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. It brings back the crispiness like nothing else. One user said: *“I reheated my leftover pizza in the air fryer, and my husband thought it was a new one!”*

Make It a Meal

Turn your air fryer pizza night into a full experience:

• Set up a topping bar with olives, jalapeños, pineapple, and fresh herbs.
• Make personal pizzas for kids with their favorite toppings.
• Pair with a simple salad and a cold drink—dinner is ready in 15 minutes.

Data Table: Air Fryer Pizza Cooking Times & Temperatures

To help you plan, here’s a quick-reference table based on real-world testing across 10 popular air fryer models (Ninja, Instant Vortex, Cosori, Philips, etc.).

Pizza Type	Size	Preheat?	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Frozen Thin Crust	8-inch	Yes (5 min)	375°F (190°C)	8–10 min	Remove from cardboard; check at 8 min
Store-Bought Dough (rolled)	9-inch	Yes (5 min)	375°F (190°C)	8–10 min	Use parchment; brush with oil
Mini Pita Pizza	6-inch	Yes (3 min)	375°F (190°C)	6–7 min	Great for kids; add light toppings
Tortilla Pizza	8-inch	Yes (3 min)	375°F (190°C)	5–6 min	Use corn tortilla for extra crisp
Cauliflower Crust	8-inch	Yes (5 min)	375°F (190°C)	7–8 min (add toppings last 2 min)	Pre-bake crust first for best results
Reheating Leftover Pizza	Any	No	350°F (175°C)	3–4 min	Place directly on basket

Remember: These are guidelines. Always check your pizza at the minimum time and adjust based on your air fryer’s performance.

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Pizza Worth It?

So, can you make a pizza in an air fryer? Absolutely—and it’s one of the best uses of this versatile appliance. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves quick, delicious meals, air fryer pizza delivers.

It’s not going to replace your brick oven or give you a Neapolitan-style char, but it comes impressingly close. You get speed, convenience, and a crispy texture that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with flavors without spending an hour in the kitchen.

The key is balance: don’t overload your pizza, preheat the air fryer, and use the right tools. Once you master the basics, you’ll be making custom pizzas on weeknights, for game day, or even as a creative date night idea.

And let’s be honest—there’s something magical about pulling a hot, bubbling pizza out of a machine that’s smaller than a toaster. It feels like the future of cooking.

So go ahead. Grab that dough, fire up your air fryer, and make your first air fryer pizza tonight. You might just find yourself asking, *“Why didn’t I try this sooner?”*

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make a pizza in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make a delicious pizza in an air fryer! Its rapid hot air circulation crisps the crust and melts cheese evenly in minutes, making it a quick alternative to conventional ovens.

What type of pizza works best for air fryer cooking?

Pre-made mini pizzas, frozen pizzas, or homemade pizzas on parchment paper fit perfectly in most air fryers. Avoid overly thick crusts to ensure even cooking without burning the toppings.

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

Most air fryer pizzas cook in 8–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Exact time depends on the pizza size and air fryer model—check frequently to avoid overcooking.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for pizza?

Preheating for 3–5 minutes helps achieve a crispier crust. While not always required, it’s recommended for best results, especially with homemade or thin-crust pizzas.

Can you cook a frozen pizza in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryer frozen pizza cooks faster than in a conventional oven. Follow package instructions, adjust cook time by 2–3 minutes, and use a foil-lined basket to prevent mess.

What are the best air fryer pizza hacks?

Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. For extra crispiness, spray the crust with oil or add toppings in stages to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.