Air Fryer Conversion Calculator

Convert oven recipes to air fryer settings. Calculate adjusted temperature and cooking time for perfect air fryer results.

How This Tool Works

This calculator converts oven recipes to air fryer settings using standard conversion formulas. Air fryers cook faster and more efficiently than ovens due to their compact size and powerful air circulation, so both temperature and time need adjustment.

The tool reduces oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) and reduces cooking time by 20%. These are general guidelines - your specific air fryer model and the food you're cooking may require slight adjustments. Always check food halfway through and adjust as needed.

Conversion Formula

The calculations are based on:

Air Fryer Temperature = Oven Temperature - 25°F (or -15°C)
Air Fryer Time = Oven Time × 0.8 (20% reduction)

Example: Oven recipe at 350°F for 30 minutes:

Air Fryer Temperature = 350 - 25 = 325°F
Air Fryer Time = 30 × 0.8 = 24 minutes

Air Fryer Tips

  • Preheat: Preheat air fryer for 2-3 minutes for best results
  • Don't Overcrowd: Leave space between items for air circulation
  • Shake or Flip: Shake basket or flip food halfway through for even cooking
  • Check Early: Start checking food a few minutes before the calculated time
  • Use Oil Sparingly: Air fryers need less oil than deep frying - a light spray is usually enough
  • Know Your Model: Different air fryer models have different heating patterns - learn yours

What Works Best in Air Fryers

  • Excellent: Frozen foods, chicken wings, french fries, vegetables, small batches of cookies
  • Good: Fish fillets, small cuts of meat, reheating leftovers, roasted vegetables
  • Challenging: Large roasts, casseroles, delicate pastries, very large quantities, foods that need steam

FAQ

  • How do I convert oven temperature to air fryer?
    Generally, reduce oven temperature by 25°F (or 15°C) when converting to air fryer. Air fryers circulate hot air more efficiently, so they cook faster at slightly lower temperatures. For example, 350°F oven becomes 325°F in air fryer.
  • How much faster does an air fryer cook?
    Air fryers typically cook 20-30% faster than ovens due to their compact size and efficient air circulation. A 30-minute oven recipe usually takes 20-24 minutes in an air fryer. Always check food halfway through and adjust as needed.
  • Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
    Yes, preheating for 2-3 minutes helps achieve consistent results, especially for recipes that require specific temperatures. Some air fryers have a preheat function, or you can simply run it empty at your cooking temperature for a few minutes.
  • Can I cook everything in an air fryer that I cook in an oven?
    Most foods work well, but some don't translate perfectly. Air fryers excel at: frozen foods, chicken wings, vegetables, small batches of cookies. They're less ideal for: large roasts, casseroles, delicate pastries, very large quantities.
  • Why does my food cook unevenly in the air fryer?
    Shake or flip food halfway through cooking for even browning. Don't overcrowd the basket - food needs space for air to circulate. Use the air fryer's recommended capacity. For larger items, rotate or flip them halfway through.
  • Should I adjust the time for different foods?
    Yes. Thinner items (fries, wings) cook faster. Thicker items (whole chicken, large potatoes) may need the full converted time or slightly more. Start with the converted time, check halfway through, and add time if needed. Experience will help you learn your air fryer's quirks.

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