Air Fryer Converter
Convert standard oven time and temperature for your air fryer.
Note: Air fryers cook by circulating hot air rapidly, which is much more efficient than a traditional oven. Most recipes require a 20% reduction in both heat and duration.
Chef's Tip
Always shake the basket halfway through the cooking time! This ensures the hot air reaches all surfaces of your food, resulting in that signature "deep-fried" crunch without the oil.
The Science of Air Frying
An air fryer is essentially a high-powered countertop convection oven. Its compact size and large fan allow it to circulate heat much more aggressively than a full-sized oven. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, browns the outside of food quickly while keeping the inside moist.
The 20/20 Rule
Most culinary experts recommend the "20/20 Rule" when converting recipes: Reduce the temperature by 20°C (or 25°F) and reduce the total cooking time by 20%. This prevents the intense direct heat of the air fryer from burning the exterior before the interior is fully cooked.
When to Adjust
While the 20/20 rule is a great baseline, different foods require different approaches:
- Frozen Snacks: These are often pre-fried and only need the time adjustment, not the temperature reduction.
- Baking: For cakes or muffins, you may need to reduce the temperature even further (up to 30°C) to ensure an even rise.
- Meats: Use a meat thermometer. The air fryer cooks meat significantly faster than an oven, increasing the risk of overcooking.
How to Use
- Find the Standard Oven instructions on your food packaging or recipe.
- Use the sliders to input the recommended Oven Temperature and Oven Time.
- Note the calculated Air Fryer Settings shown in the results card.
- Preheat your air fryer for 2-3 minutes for the most consistent results.
- Check your food a few minutes before the calculated time ends to ensure perfect doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to preheat?
Most air fryers reach temperature very quickly, but preheating for 3 minutes ensures the "searing" effect starts as soon as the food hits the basket.
Can I use aluminum foil?
Yes, but don't cover the entire basket. The air needs to flow through the holes to cook the food properly.
Why is my food soggy?
Overcrowding is the main culprit. If the air can't circulate between the pieces of food, they will steam instead of fry.
Is air frying healthier?
Generally, yes. It uses up to 80% less oil than deep frying while achieving similar texture and flavor results.