Perfect Air Fryer Fried Eggs: Your Ultimate Guide to Easy, Delicious Breakfasts
Imagine a breakfast where perfectly cooked eggs with a creamy, runny yolk land on your plate without the usual mess and fuss of a frying pan. This dream becomes a reality with Air Fryer Fried Eggs! Not only are these sunny-side-up delights an excellent source of protein, but their consistent perfection and delightful texture make every bite a pure pleasure. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just starting out, this recipe promises to revolutionize your morning routine, delivering a flawless fried egg with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

This method offers a remarkably quick breakfast option, requiring just a few simple ingredients and less than 10 minutes from start to finish. You can be enjoying a perfectly cooked egg, complete with its golden, irresistible yolk, alongside your morning coffee or as part of a more elaborate meal. It’s ideal for busy weekday mornings when time is of the essence, or for a leisurely weekend where you want gourmet results without the fuss.
Beyond this fantastic fried egg technique, your air fryer is a versatile appliance for all kinds of egg creations. If you’re eager to expand your air fryer breakfast repertoire, we highly recommend trying our recipe for air fryer eggs in a basket, a delightful combination of toast and egg. For those seeking convenient, protein-packed snacks or meal prep solutions, these air fryer egg bites are an absolute winner.
Why You Will Love This Air Fried Egg Recipe
This Air Fryer Fried Egg recipe is more than just another cooking method; it’s a testament to convenience, health, and deliciousness, all rolled into one. Here are the compelling reasons why it will undoubtedly become a new favorite in your kitchen:
- Unbelievably Easy & Fast: Forget the constant attention and splattering oil of traditional pan-frying. With the air fryer, you simply set it and forget it (almost!), freeing up your hands for other morning tasks. In less than 10 minutes, your eggs are ready.
- Healthier Cooking: By utilizing just a light mist of oil spray, you significantly reduce the amount of added fat compared to frying in a pan. This makes it a wonderfully lighter and healthier way to enjoy your eggs without compromising on taste.
- Perfectly Cooked Whites, Creamy Yolks: The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures the egg whites are evenly cooked and firm, while the yolks remain beautifully creamy and runny. You’ll achieve that coveted sunny-side-up perfection consistently.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking your eggs in ramekins means no stubborn residue stuck to your skillet. Simply wash your small dishes, and you’re done! This means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
- Highly Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you’re craving a sprinkle of cheese, a dash of hot sauce, or a medley of fresh herbs, it’s incredibly easy to tailor each egg to individual preferences.
- Versatile for Any Meal: While a breakfast champion, these air-fried eggs aren’t just for mornings. They make a fantastic addition to lunch salads, avocado toast, or even as a quick protein-rich component for dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This method is ideal for families, allowing everyone to enjoy perfectly cooked eggs without a queue at the stove. It’s a particularly delightful and simple idea for feeding hungry crowds after a fun kids’ sleepover or a memorable night of backyard camping.
Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of air-fried eggs. This method is a game-changer for anyone looking for a stress-free, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying way to prepare eggs.
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Results
One of the true beauties of this recipe is its minimal ingredient list, proving that often, the simplest components create the most profound flavors. You likely have most, if not all, of these items in your kitchen right now:
- 2 Large Eggs: The star of our dish! For the best results, opt for fresh, high-quality large chicken eggs. Their freshness contributes to a beautifully firm white and a vibrant, intact yolk.
- Olive Oil Non-Stick Spray: Crucial for ensuring your eggs release cleanly from the ramekins and for facilitating a slight crisping around the edges. This also helps reduce the need for excessive oil, keeping the dish light.
- Coarse Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are vital for enhancing the natural, rich flavor of the eggs. Always season to taste, adding more or less as you prefer.
Optional Additional Flavors: Unleash your inner chef by incorporating these ingredients either before or after cooking. They’re perfect for elevating the taste and texture of your air-fried eggs to new heights!
- Shredded or Cut Block Cheese: Think sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, or a nutty Gruyère. A small amount sprinkled over the egg before cooking will melt into a luscious, savory blanket.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you appreciate a gentle warmth and a subtle kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a fantastic zing.
- Garlic Powder: For an aromatic, savory depth, garlic powder is a wonderful complement to the richness of the egg.
- Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that infuses your eggs with a Mediterranean-inspired herbal note.
- Bacon Bits: For a delightful smoky flavor and a bit of crunchy texture, pre-cooked bacon bits are an irresistible addition.

Essential Equipment for Air Fryer Fried Eggs
One of the beauties of this recipe is its minimal equipment requirements. You’ll only need two main items, making it super accessible for almost any kitchen:
- Air Fryer: Any model of air fryer, whether it’s a basket-style or an oven-style, will work for this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on your specific model’s wattage and how hot it typically runs. For reference, I achieve consistent results with my Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer.
- Ramekins or Small Oven-Safe Dishes: These are absolutely essential! They provide the perfect container to hold your eggs, giving them that classic fried egg shape. Small ceramic ramekins (typically 4-6 oz), silicone baking cups, or other oven-safe dishes that fit comfortably within your air fryer basket without overcrowding are ideal.
How to Make Fried Egg in the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide for Perfection
Achieving a perfectly air-fried egg with a set white and a creamy, runny yolk is incredibly simple when you follow these clear, step-by-step instructions. Get ready for a mess-free and delicious result!
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Prepare Your Dishes:
Begin by lightly spraying the inside of each ramekin or small oven-safe dish with olive oil non-stick spray. This is a critical step to ensure your beautifully cooked eggs don’t stick and can be easily transferred to your plate. If you prefer, a small dab of butter rubbed around the inside of the dish also works wonderfully for extra flavor.
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Crack the Eggs:
Carefully crack one egg into each prepared dish. Take extra care to keep the yolk intact, especially if you’re aiming for that classic sunny-side-up presentation with a runny center. If a yolk breaks, it’s still perfectly fine to cook and enjoy, but it will resemble more of a scrambled egg in a cup!
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Place Ramekins in the Air Fryer:
Gently arrange the ramekins containing the cracked eggs into the air fryer basket. It’s important to ensure there’s adequate space between each dish to allow the hot air to circulate freely. This even airflow is what guarantees uniform cooking and perfect results. Avoid overcrowding the basket; if necessary, cook your eggs in batches.
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Air Fry the Eggs:
Close the air fryer and set it to 370°F (185°C). Air fry the eggs for 5 minutes. This specific temperature and duration are typically ideal for achieving a perfectly set egg white while keeping the yolk delightfully runny. However, remember that air fryer models can vary, so consider this an excellent starting point for your first batch.
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Check for Doneness and Adjust:
After 5 minutes, carefully open your air fryer and check the eggs. The egg white should appear firm and opaque, indicating it’s fully cooked. For a beautifully runny yolk, 5 minutes is usually perfect. If you prefer a slightly firmer, jammy yolk, or even a completely solid one, continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until you reach your desired consistency. A fully cooked yolk might take up to 7-8 minutes in total. For softer yolks, some air fryers might even yield results at 4 minutes.
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Serve and Season:
Once cooked to your liking, carefully remove the hot ramekins from the air fryer. Using a small spatula or spoon, gently slide the perfectly air-fried eggs onto your plate. Finish by seasoning generously with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, delicious perfection!
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Eggs Every Time
While the air fryer makes cooking fried eggs incredibly easy, a few extra tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely perfect:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: While not strictly necessary for all models, preheating your air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 370°F (185°C) before adding the eggs can help achieve more consistent cooking and a slightly crispier edge on the whites.
- Choose the Right Ramekin Size: Small, oven-safe ramekins (around 4-6 ounces) are ideal for maintaining the fried egg shape. Ensure they fit comfortably in your air fryer basket without touching or blocking airflow.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers cook by circulating hot air. Overcrowding the basket with too many ramekins will restrict this airflow, leading to unevenly cooked eggs. Cook in batches if you’re making more than two at a time.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs at room temperature cook more evenly and quickly than cold eggs straight from the fridge. If you have time, let your eggs sit out for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust for Your Air Fryer: Every air fryer is different. The first time you try this recipe, monitor your eggs closely. Your preferred runny yolk might be ready at 4 minutes, or perhaps a firmer yolk needs 6-7 minutes. Make a mental note (or jot it down!) for next time.
- Experiment with Doneness:
- Runny Yolk (Classic Sunny-Side Up): Stick to 5 minutes at 370°F (185°C).
- Jammy Yolk (Soft-Boiled Texture): Try 6-7 minutes. The yolk will be thicker but still soft.
- Firm Yolk (Hard-Boiled Texture): Cook for 7-8 minutes for a fully set yolk, similar to a hard-boiled egg.
- Careful Removal: Ramekins will be hot! Use oven mitts and a small, heat-resistant spatula to gently lift and transfer the eggs to your plate to avoid breaking the delicate yolk.
Customizing Your Air Fryer Fried Eggs: Endless Possibilities
One of the greatest joys of cooking eggs is their incredible adaptability. This air fryer fried egg recipe is a perfect canvas for customization, allowing you to tailor your meal to your exact cravings. Feel free to experiment with these suggestions to make each serving uniquely delicious:
Optional Additional Toppings:
Elevate your cooked eggs with a burst of flavor and texture. These toppings are best added right after the eggs are removed from the air fryer, while they are still warm and inviting:
- Fresh Herbs: Finely chopped chives, fresh parsley, or cilantro add a vibrant color and a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese, such as sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, or creamy Monterey Jack, will melt into a gooey, savory layer over the warm egg.
- Spicy Kick: A dash of your preferred hot sauce (Sriracha, Tabasco, or Cholula) or a pinch of red pepper flakes can awaken your taste buds with a delightful heat.
- Creamy Indulgence: A small dollop of cream cheese, sour cream, or even Greek yogurt can add a rich, tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the runny yolk.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: This trendy blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt flakes provides an irresistible savory crunch and depth of flavor.
- Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Creamy avocado is a classic pairing with eggs, offering healthy fats and a smooth texture that complements the rich yolk.
- Crispy Onions or Shallots: For an added layer of flavor and crunch.
Substitutions for Oil Spray:
If you don’t have olive oil spray, or simply prefer another type of fat, here are some excellent alternatives for preparing your ramekins:
- Alternative Oil Sprays: Refined coconut oil spray, vegetable oil spray, canola oil spray, or avocado oil spray all work effectively to prevent sticking. Each offers a slightly different neutral flavor profile.
- Butter: For a richer, more traditional fried egg flavor, you can rub the inside of your ramekin dish with a small amount of softened butter instead of using a non-stick cooking spray.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ideas. The beauty of this air fryer fried egg recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to create a personalized, gourmet experience with minimal effort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) About Air Fryer Fried Eggs
What can I serve with Air Fryer Fried Eggs?
Air fryer fried eggs are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of delicious foods, making them suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For a classic savory start to your day, serve them alongside crispy bacon, juicy breakfast sausage, or thinly sliced breakfast ham. To make it a more substantial meal, they are fantastic with buttery toast (regular or avocado toast!), or a side of crispy hashbrowns. For a lighter touch, a colorful bowl of fresh fruit or a simple green salad can perfectly complement the richness of the yolk. Don’t be afraid to get creative: these eggs can also crown a bed of rice and vegetables for a quick dinner, or be slipped into a breakfast burrito.
Can I store leftover air-fried eggs?
While air fryer fried eggs are undeniably best enjoyed fresh off the “fryer,” you can store leftovers if necessary. First, allow the cooked eggs to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in your refrigerator. They will remain good for 1-2 days. However, be aware that reheating them may alter the yolk’s consistency; it’s likely to become firmer. We generally do not recommend freezing fried eggs. The freezing and thawing process can cause the texture to become rubbery and watery, resulting in a mushy and unappetizing consistency.
Is there a certain type of egg I have to use?
Absolutely not! While this recipe primarily uses large chicken eggs as the standard, you are encouraged to experiment with various types of eggs available at your local grocery store, farmers market, or specialty food shops. Duck eggs, goose eggs, and even turkey eggs can be used to make this dish. These larger eggs often boast richer yolks and a more distinct flavor profile. However, it’s important to note that because these eggs are significantly larger than standard chicken eggs, their cooking time will vary. You will typically need to add an extra 1-3 minutes to the air frying process, checking frequently, to achieve your desired level of doneness.
What other ways can I make eggs, especially using an air fryer?
Eggs are one of the most versatile and nutritious ingredients, and your air fryer can handle a surprising variety of preparations! Beyond delicious fried eggs, you can easily make fluffy scrambled eggs, perfect for a quick protein boost. Consider making individual omelets, brimming with your favorite vegetables and cheese, or a hearty skillet frittata that can be sliced and shared with the whole family. For convenient, grab-and-go snacks or for making creamy deviled eggs, you can even make perfectly air fryer hard-boiled eggs. The possibilities are truly endless!
- Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs
- Air Fryer Scrambled Eggs
- Air Fryer Egg Bites
- Air Fryer Eggs in a Basket

MORE AIR FRYER RECIPES TO EXPLORE:
The air fryer is a true marvel in the modern kitchen, capable of transforming simple ingredients into delicious meals with unparalleled ease and efficiency. If you’ve enjoyed mastering these perfect fried eggs, we encourage you to dive deeper into the world of air frying with these other fantastic recipes. Expand your culinary repertoire and discover how effortlessly you can prepare a variety of dishes for breakfast, sides, or quick snacks:
- Air Fryer Twisted Bacon: A fun, crispy, and perfectly cooked bacon treat every single time, without the greasy mess of a stovetop.
- Air Fryer Turkey Bacon: A healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon, cooked to golden-brown perfection and crispiness.
- Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs: Incredibly easy to peel and consistently cooked to your preferred doneness, perfect for meal prep or quick snacks.
- Air Fryer Scrambled Eggs: Achieve fluffy, perfectly cooked scrambled eggs with minimal effort and cleanup.
- Air Fryer French Toast Sticks: A sweet and satisfying treat, these French toast sticks are wonderfully crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
We are passionate about making cooking enjoyable, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. The air fryer helps us achieve all three, and we sincerely hope this comprehensive guide to perfect Air Fryer Fried Eggs inspires you to explore new culinary possibilities and simplify your kitchen routine. Enjoy your perfectly cooked eggs and happy air frying!
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4 votes
2
Air Fryer Fried Eggs
Jen
1 minute
7 minutes
8 minutes
Rate
Equipment
-
1 Air Fryer
-
2 Ramekins or oven-safe dishes
Ingredients
-
2
large eggs -
1/4
teaspoon
olive oil spray,
or nonstick cooking spray -
salt and pepper to taste
Prevent your screen from going dark
Instructions
-
Spray each ramekin or dish you will be using with olive oil spray.
-
Crack an egg into each dish (one egg per dish).
-
Place ramekins in the air fryer basket.
-
Air fry the eggs for 5 minutes at 370°F (185°C).
-
Make sure the egg white is firm and solid. *5 minutes should make a nice runny egg yolk. If you want a firm yolk, add 1-2 minutes to the cooking process until you get your preferred doneness.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Optional Additional Toppings: Chopped chives, shredded cheese, hot sauce, a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream, fresh parsley or cilantro, everything bagel seasoning, avocado slices.
Substitutions for Oil Spray: Use refined coconut oil, vegetable oil, canola oil or avocado oil spray instead of olive oil spray. Rub ramekin dish with butter instead of non-stick cooking spray.
I make this recipe in my Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer. Depending on your air fryer, size and wattages, cooking time may need to be adjusted 1-2 minutes. Always perform a quick check the first time you make them in your specific air fryer.
Nutrition
Calories:
68
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
0.4
g
,
Protein:
6
g
,
Fat:
5
g
,
Saturated Fat:
1
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat:
2
g
,
Trans Fat:
0.01
g
,
Cholesterol:
164
mg
,
Sodium:
63
mg
,
Potassium:
61
mg
,
Sugar:
0.2
g
,
Vitamin A:
238
IU
,
Calcium:
25
mg
,
Iron:
1
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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