Heating up pizza in an air fryer is maybe the most optimal way to restore leftover slices to their former glory. The crunch of the crust, the stringy melted cheese, and how efficient it happens makes the air fryer one of the best kitchen appliances to do so. In this ultimate guide, you will find out how long to reheat pizza in an air fryer, the ideal temperature to use, how to prevent soggy or burnt slices, and how different types of pizza influence reheating time.
How Long to Reheat Pizza in an Air Fryer?
Most standard slices warm up great at 350°F (175°C) for 4 to 6 minutes. Times will vary depending on the type of pizza, the thickness of the crust, and the amount of toppings. If your pizza is frozen or particularly thick, it will take a bit longer. Below is a handy reference chart:
Recommended Air Fryer Reheating Times by Pizza Type
| Pizza Style | Suggested Temperature | Estimated Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thin Crust | 325°F (165°C) | 3–5 minutes | Check early to avoid over-crisping |
| Regular Crust | 350°F (175°C) | 4–6 minutes | Works for most standard slices |
| Thick Crust / Deep Dish | 375°F (190°C) | 6–8 minutes | Consider covering with foil to protect toppings |
| Frozen Slice (Leftover) | 375°F (190°C) | 8–10 minutes | No need to thaw beforehand |
| Stuffed Crust | 375°F (190°C) | 5–7 minutes | Ensure interior cheese is heated thoroughly |
Step-by-Step Guide to Reheating Pizza in the Air Fryer
In order to reheat a pizza properly, simply follow these easy steps:
- Let the pizza slice rest at room temperature for a few minutes to minimize temperature shock.
- Heat up the air fryer to your preferred temperature (usually 350°F for standard slices).
- Insert the slice directly into the basket or on parchment paper, without stacking or overlapping.
- Reheat for 3 to 6 minutes depending on how thick the slice is, checking halfway.
- Take away the pizza with tongs once the cheese has melted and the crust is golden brown.
Why the Air Fryer Is Superior to Other Methods
The air fryer excels at speed and quality. Microwave pizza is faster, but at the cost of crust texture and typically resulting in a rubbery or unevenly cooked slice. Oven reheat is slow and less energy efficient.
The air fryer achieves both speed and quality: crispy crust, hot toppings, and melted cheese in minutes.
Tips to Avoid Burnt or Dry Pizza
- Never air-fry more than 375°F unless you're using a thick or frozen slice.
- Always inspect the slice early in your initial attempt. Every air fryer is unique.
- If your pizza toppings become dehydrated, try to cover the slice loosely with foil during reheating.
- To keep crust soft and not soggy, lightly brush the bottom with olive oil before air-frying.
What About Warming More Than One Slice?
Air fryers come in varying sizes, but generally speaking, you don't stack slices. Reheat in a single layer for optimal airflow and consistency of cooking. If serving more than one, cook batches to maintain consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use foil in the air fryer?
Yes. Foil is okay to use as long as it doesn't obstruct airflow or touch heating elements. It's good for reducing mess, especially where cheese-drenched slices are being used. - Is parchment paper better than foil?
Parchment paper gives better airflow under the pizza and is ideal for crispiness. Parchment paper will burn when heated extremely high, however, so monitor closely if over 375°F. - Do I flip the pizza slice?
No. Flat is the most effective method for storing a pizza to reheat. Flipping will destroy the toppings and isn't even necessary with hot circulating air. - Can I reheat an entire pizza?
Only if you have a large air fryer to hold the entire pizza flat. On most basket types, it's best to cut the pizza and reheat a slice at a time.
Conclusion
Done. Reheating pizza in an air fryer gives you speedy, tasty outcomes on par with or superior to fresh-out-of-the-box. The trick lies in the timing, temperature, and attention to detail. Thin crust, deep dish, or leftover freezer pizza doesn't have a chance against the air fryer, your best friend for reviving pizza. The next time you're going to nuke a slice in the microwave, take a bit extra time and use the air fryer—you'll thank you for it.