Who would have thought the air fryer could replace the stovetop for perfectly “boiled” eggs? This simple method skips cracked shells, rolling water, and guesswork, delivering consistently tender eggs that peel with ease. Whether you love soft, jammy yolks for ramen or fully set eggs for meal prep and healthy breakfasts, the air fryer handles every level beautifully. It’s one of those smart kitchen shortcuts that feels like a game changer once you try it.
Air Fryer “Boiled” Eggs
Ingredients & Tools
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | Any size (large recommended) |
| Ice cubes | As needed |
| Cold water | Enough for ice bath |
| Salt, pepper, or seasoning | Optional |
Equipment
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Air fryer | Preheated |
| Heat-safe bowl | For ice bath |
| Slotted spoon or tongs | For safe handling |
Tip: Eggs that are 5–7 days old tend to peel more easily than very fresh eggs.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 270°F (130°C). If your model runs slightly cooler, adjust to 275°F (135°C). Allow it to preheat for 2–3 minutes.
Step 2: Arrange the Eggs
Place the eggs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space between each one so hot air can circulate evenly.
Step 3: Set the Cooking Time
Choose the doneness you prefer and let the air fryer work its magic.
Soft-boiled with runny yolks: 9–10 minutes
Medium-boiled with jammy centers: 11–12 minutes
Hard-boiled with fully set yolks: 13–15 minutes
There’s no need to flip or check on them during cooking.
Step 4: Ice Bath
As soon as the eggs are done, transfer them straight into a bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes to stop the cooking process, maintain yolk color, and make peeling easier.
Step 5: Peel and Serve
Lightly tap the eggs on a hard surface and roll to loosen the shells. Peel under cool running water for best results. Season simply with salt and pepper, or add your favorite spices, sauces, or dips for extra flavor.