Poached eggs are a versatile and delicious addition to so many meals, from breakfast to dinner. Whether you love them atop avocado toast, in a salad, or simply enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, they’re a true comfort food. But what if I told you that you could achieve perfectly poached eggs without having to deal with a pot of simmering water? Thanks to the air fryer, it’s possible! In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make poached eggs in the air fryer, an easy and quick way to get a creamy, tender yolk every time.
The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the eggs, making it a hands-off method with minimal cleanup. Plus, the result is a beautifully poached egg that’s just as tasty as the traditional method, but with way less effort. So, if you’re ready to get started, let’s dive into this hassle-free recipe for Air Fryer Poached Eggs that will leave you wanting more!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Eggs: The star of this dish! Fresh eggs will give you the best results for poaching. Choose eggs that are still in their shells and not cracked.
Water: You’ll need a bit of water to create the steam that helps poach the eggs in the air fryer. A small amount is enough, just enough to steam the egg without drowning it.
Olive Oil or Non-stick Spray: A light spray of oil will ensure that your eggs don’t stick to the air fryer basket or tray. You can use olive oil for a subtle flavor or non-stick spray for ease.
Salt and Pepper (optional): To taste. You can season the eggs after they’re cooked with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper, or any seasonings you like.
Ingredients List
- 2 large eggs (or as many as you want to cook)
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Olive oil or non-stick spray
- Salt and pepper (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Poached Eggs
Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Spray the air fryer basket or tray with a light coating of olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent the eggs from sticking. This will also help make cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Add Water
Pour about 1 tablespoon of water into the bottom of the air fryer basket. This water will create steam during the cooking process, helping to poach the eggs evenly.
Step 3: Crack the Eggs
Crack the eggs into small, oven-safe ramekins or dishes. Be gentle to ensure the yolk stays intact. If you prefer, you can use silicone egg molds as well.
Step 4: Place Eggs in the Air Fryer
Carefully place the ramekins or dishes with the eggs into the air fryer basket. Make sure the eggs don’t touch each other to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry the Eggs
Set the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and cook for 7-9 minutes, depending on how runny you like your yolk. For soft yolks, 7 minutes is perfect, but if you like them firmer, go for the full 9 minutes.
Step 6: Remove and Season
Once the eggs are done, carefully remove the ramekins from the air fryer. Use a spoon to gently lift the eggs out, being careful not to break the yolks. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Check the Doneness: Keep in mind that every air fryer is a little different. If it’s your first time making poached eggs, start by checking after 7 minutes. If the yolk is too soft for your liking, cook for another minute or two.
- Silicone Egg Molds: If you have silicone egg molds, they work perfectly for this recipe. They’ll help the eggs maintain a perfect shape and make removing them even easier.
- Egg Freshness: Fresh eggs are key for poaching. Older eggs may not hold their shape as well, resulting in more spread-out whites.
- Make Multiple Eggs: If you’re cooking more than one egg, make sure they’re spaced out in the air fryer basket. Crowding them together could affect how evenly they cook.
FAQs
Can I use cold eggs straight from the fridge?
Yes, you can! However, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time if your eggs are straight from the fridge.
Can I poach more than two eggs at once?
Absolutely! You can poach multiple eggs at once in the air fryer, just make sure they’re in separate ramekins or egg molds so they don’t touch.
Can I cook these eggs for longer for firmer yolks?
Yes! If you prefer your yolks less runny, simply cook the eggs for a few extra minutes, checking on them periodically to make sure they don’t overcook.
Can I add other seasonings to the poached eggs?
Of course! Try adding fresh herbs like chives, tarragon, or parsley for extra flavor. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle some cheese for a more indulgent twist.
Enjoy these perfectly poached eggs straight from the air fryer—no stovetop required! They’re quick, easy, and sure to become a go-to in your breakfast rotation.