Can You Make Pizza in Air Fryer A Quick Delicious Guide

Yes, you can make delicious, crispy pizza in an air fryer—quickly and with minimal mess. This method delivers perfectly browned crusts and melted cheese in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or snack cravings. With no preheating and easy cleanup, air fryer pizza is a game-changer for home cooks.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can make pizza in an air fryer—it’s quick and yields crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and optimal texture every time.
• Use parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
• Keep toppings light to avoid soggy crusts and ensure faster cooking.
• Cook in batches if needed—air fryers vary in size; don’t overcrowd.
• Check at 5 minutes to avoid burning, as cook times are faster than ovens.

Can You Make Pizza in Air Fryer? A Quick & Delicious Guide

Let’s be real—nothing beats the smell of a freshly baked pizza. The gooey cheese, the crispy crust, the way the toppings bubble and sizzle. But here’s the thing: not all of us have an oven that heats evenly, or the time to wait 30 minutes for a frozen pizza to crisp up. Enter the air fryer. This little kitchen gadget has taken homes by storm, promising crispy, golden results in half the time. But can it really handle something as sacred as pizza?

As someone who’s tried everything from reheating leftovers to baking cookies in my air fryer, I had to know: can you make pizza in air fryer? The short answer? Absolutely. But like any kitchen hack, there’s a sweet spot—a balance of timing, temperature, and technique that turns a soggy mess into a golden, delicious slice. Over the past year, I’ve experimented with everything from frozen pies to homemade mini pizzas, and I’m here to share what works, what doesn’t, and how you can turn your air fryer into a pizza powerhouse. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves quick, tasty meals, this guide will show you how to make pizza in air fryer—without the guesswork.

Why Your Air Fryer Is Perfect for Pizza (Yes, Really!)

You might be thinking, “Wait, isn’t an air fryer just for fries and chicken nuggets?” Nope. At its core, an air fryer is a mini convection oven. It uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly and crisp the outside—exactly what you want in a good pizza crust. Think of it like a turbocharged toaster oven with better airflow. That means it can handle more than just frozen snacks. Pizza? Yes. And it’s faster, more energy-efficient, and often gives better results than your standard microwave or toaster oven.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the biggest wins? Time. A typical oven takes 10–15 minutes to preheat, then another 10–20 minutes to bake a pizza. In an air fryer, you’re looking at 5 to 10 minutes total, no preheating required for many models. That’s game-changing when you’re hangry at 7 p.m. and just want dinner on the table fast. I remember one night when my oven was acting up—burnt the last two frozen pizzas. I grabbed a mini pepperoni pizza, tossed it in the air fryer, and had a perfectly crisp, hot slice in under 8 minutes. It saved my sanity (and my appetite).

Energy and Space Savings

Air fryers use significantly less energy than full-sized ovens. Since they’re smaller, they heat up faster and waste less power. Plus, if you’re in a small apartment, dorm, or RV, an air fryer takes up way less counter space than a conventional oven. You can even store it in a cabinet when not in use. And let’s not forget: no more waiting for the whole oven to heat just to cook one pizza. It’s eco-friendly and practical.

Crispy Crust, Every Time

Here’s the real magic: air fryers excel at crisping. The constant airflow hits every angle of the pizza, so the crust turns golden and slightly crunchy—without drying out the center. I’ve found that even soft frozen pizzas come out with a better texture in the air fryer than in a microwave. And if you’re using a pre-baked crust or making a personal pizza from scratch, the air fryer gives you that just-out-of-the-pizza-oven feel—no soggy bottoms here.

What Types of Pizza Work Best in an Air Fryer?

Not all pizzas are created equal—and that’s especially true when it comes to air fryer cooking. The size, thickness, and ingredients all play a role in how well your pizza turns out. Let’s break down the best options and which ones to avoid.

Frozen Mini and Personal Pizzas

This is the easiest entry point for air fryer pizza lovers. Brands like DiGiorno, Tombstone, and Freschetta make mini or 7-inch frozen pizzas that fit perfectly in most air fryer baskets (usually 5–6 inches in diameter). These are designed to cook quickly and evenly, and the air fryer’s rapid heat helps them crisp up beautifully.

• Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd. One pizza per batch is ideal. Even if your basket looks like it could fit two, the airflow needs space to circulate. I once tried stacking two mini pizzas—ended up with one crispy and one soggy. Lesson learned.
• Timing: 6–10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on thickness and desired crispiness.

Store-Bought or Homemade Pre-Baked Crusts

Love the idea of customizing your pizza but hate waiting for dough to rise? Pre-baked crusts (like those from Trader Joe’s or Boboli) are perfect for air fryers. They’re already cooked, so you’re just heating and crisping the toppings. I keep a few in my pantry for “pizza emergencies.”

• How to use: Add sauce, cheese, and toppings. Air fry for 4–6 minutes at 375°F. The cheese melts fast, and the crust stays firm.
• Bonus: You can make a “pizza bar” with different toppings—great for kids or picky eaters.

Homemade Dough or Flatbread Pizzas

Feeling ambitious? You can make real homemade pizza in your air fryer. Use a small batch of dough (enough for one 6-inch pizza) or even flatbread, naan, or pita for a quick base. I’ve made mini Margherita pizzas with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil—all in under 10 minutes.

• Tip: Roll the dough thin to avoid a doughy center. Air fryers don’t have the intense radiant heat of a wood-fired oven, so thicker crusts can stay undercooked inside.
• Topping hack: Pre-cook wet ingredients like mushrooms or peppers to avoid sogginess.

What to Avoid: Large or Deep-Dish Pizzas

While it’s tempting to try a 12-inch frozen pie, most air fryers simply can’t handle it. The basket is too small, and the pizza won’t cook evenly. Deep-dish or stuffed crust pizzas are even trickier—they’re too thick for the air fryer’s rapid cooking method. Stick to 6–8 inch pizzas for best results. Save the deep-dish for your oven or a real pizzeria.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pizza in Air Fryer (With Real Examples)

Okay, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. I’ll walk you through a foolproof method, with real-life examples from my own kitchen trials. These steps work for frozen, pre-baked, or homemade pizzas—just adjust timing and prep as needed.

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer

First, don’t line the basket with foil or parchment unless the manufacturer says it’s safe. Some models warn against this because it can block airflow or even catch fire. If you’re worried about sticking, use a light spray of cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil) on the basket. I use a silicone liner that’s air fryer-safe—it’s reusable and easy to clean.

• Tip: If your air fryer has a “preheat” function, use it for 3–5 minutes at 375°F. Otherwise, just set the temperature and start.

Step 2: Place the Pizza (Don’t Overlap!)

Place your pizza in the center of the basket. Make sure it’s not touching the sides or overlapping with anything else. For frozen pizzas, leave them on the cardboard tray if it’s heat-safe (check the packaging). I’ve found that removing the tray and placing the pizza directly on the basket gives better browning.

• Example: I made a DiGiorno mini pepperoni pizza. Removed the tray, sprayed the basket lightly, and placed the pizza in. No sticking, no mess.

Step 3: Set Time and Temperature

Here’s the golden rule: start low and check often. Air fryers cook fast, and it’s easy to burn the cheese or overcook the crust.

• Frozen mini pizza: 375°F for 6–8 minutes.
• Pre-baked crust with toppings: 375°F for 4–6 minutes.
• Homemade thin crust: 380°F for 5–7 minutes.

After 5 minutes, pause the air fryer and peek. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden. If it’s not done, add 1–2 minutes. I always set a timer for 5 minutes and check—saves me from overcooking more times than I’d like to admit.

Step 4: Add Extra Toppings (Optional)

Want to jazz it up? Add fresh toppings after the initial cook. For example, I love adding arugula, fresh basil, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after the pizza comes out. If you add them before, they’ll burn or wilt. For meats like pepperoni or sausage, they’re usually pre-cooked, so they just need to heat through. But if you’re using raw bacon or chicken, pre-cook them first. Nothing worse than undercooked meat on your pizza.

Step 5: Let It Rest (Yes, Really)

This is a step many skip—but it makes a difference. Let your pizza sit for 1–2 minutes after cooking. The cheese sets slightly, and the crust firms up. I’ve burned my mouth more than once by diving in too soon. Patience pays off.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Pizza

Now that you know the basics, let’s level up. These are the insider tips I’ve picked up from months of testing—things that make a huge difference in texture, flavor, and convenience.

Use a Pizza Stone or Liner (If Compatible)

Some air fryers come with a pizza stone or a metal tray. These help distribute heat more evenly and prevent the bottom from burning. I use a small ceramic pizza stone that fits my 5.8-quart air fryer. It gives a crispier crust and prevents hot spots. Just make sure it’s oven-safe and fits your basket.

• Warning: Don’t use a stone if your air fryer’s manual says not to. Some models have airflow issues with heavy inserts.

Don’t Overload the Toppings

Air fryers work best with lightly topped pizzas. Too many toppings can block airflow, leading to uneven cooking. I once made a “kitchen sink” pizza with sausage, peppers, onions, mushrooms, and extra cheese. The result? A soggy, undercooked mess. Now, I stick to 2–3 toppings max. Less is more.

Rotate for Even Cooking (If Needed)

Some air fryers have hot spots—areas that cook faster than others. If your pizza isn’t browning evenly, pause and rotate it 180 degrees halfway through. I do this with my Cosori model, and it makes a noticeable difference in crust color.

Reheat Leftovers Like a Pro

Got leftover pizza? Don’t use the microwave. The air fryer reheats pizza better than new. Place the slice in the basket, cook at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. The crust crisps up, and the cheese melts perfectly. I’ve reheated 3-day-old pizza and it tasted like it was just made.

Clean Your Basket Right After

Cheese and sauce can burn onto the basket if you wait. I clean mine while it’s still warm (but not hot) with soapy water and a soft sponge. For stuck-on bits, soak in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes. Avoid steel wool—it scratches the nonstick coating.

Air Fryer Pizza Cooking Time & Temperature Guide (Data Table)

To make things even easier, here’s a quick-reference table based on real tests. These times are for a standard 5–6 inch pizza in a 5–6 quart air fryer. Adjust by 1–2 minutes for smaller or larger models.

Pizza Type	Size	Temperature	Time	Notes
Frozen Mini Pizza (e.g., DiGiorno)	6–7 inch	375°F (190°C)	6–8 min	Check at 6 min; rotate if needed
Pre-Baked Crust with Toppings	6 inch	375°F (190°C)	4–6 min	Lightly top to avoid sogginess
Homemade Thin Crust Pizza	6 inch	380°F (193°C)	5–7 min	Roll thin; pre-cook wet toppings
Flatbread or Naan Pizza	6–8 inch	375°F (190°C)	4–5 min	Great for quick lunches
Reheated Leftover Slice	1 slice	350°F (175°C)	3–4 min	Crisps crust without drying

Remember: these are starting points. Every air fryer is different. Use the table as a guide, but trust your eyes and nose. If it smells like burning, pause and check.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Make Pizza in Air Fryer—And It’s Worth It

So, can you make pizza in air fryer? Without a doubt. It’s fast, easy, and often better than traditional methods—especially when you’re short on time or space. I’ve made everything from classic pepperoni to gourmet flatbread pizzas, and the results have been consistently delicious. The key is understanding your air fryer, choosing the right size and type of pizza, and not rushing the process.

Is it perfect? Not always. You’re limited by size, and thick crusts can be tricky. But for quick meals, reheating leftovers, or making personalized mini pizzas, it’s a total game-changer. I’ve even started using my air fryer for “pizza nights” with friends—everyone gets to customize their own, and they’re ready in under 10 minutes. No oven preheating, no waiting, no stress.

The best part? You don’t need to be a chef to make great pizza in your air fryer. Just follow the basics, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the results. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this little machine can handle it—with crispy, cheesy, golden perfection every time. So go ahead, grab that frozen pizza or roll out some dough, and let your air fryer do the rest. Your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make pizza in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make delicious pizza in an air fryer! The hot, circulating air cooks the crust evenly while melting cheese and toppings to perfection in under 10 minutes.

How do you cook frozen pizza in an air fryer?

To cook frozen pizza in an air fryer, preheat to 360°F (182°C), place the pizza in the basket, and air-fry for 6–8 minutes. Check for a crispy crust and bubbling cheese.

What type of pizza works best for air fryer cooking?

Small personal-sized pizzas, thin-crust, or pre-baked crusts work best in an air fryer. Avoid overly thick or deep-dish styles to ensure even cooking.

Can you make homemade pizza dough in the air fryer?

You can’t make dough *in* the air fryer, but you can use homemade dough to craft mini pizzas. Roll it thin, par-bake for 2 minutes, then add toppings and finish cooking.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for pizza?

Yes, preheating your air fryer (3–5 minutes) ensures a crispy crust and prevents soggy results. This is especially important when making pizza in an air fryer.

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

Most pizzas cook in 6–10 minutes at 360°F (182°C). Cooking time depends on thickness, toppings, and whether it’s frozen or fresh.