Meat

Beef, pork and lamb in the basket

Meat cooks fast in an air fryer because hot air moves around the surface, which browns the outside and keeps the inside juicy. Steak takes about 10 to 14 minutes at 400 °F, and pork chops cook through in a similar time. Lamb chops and pork tenderloin also work well at high heat, while larger roasts such as pork roast use a lower 350 °F so the center cooks before the crust darkens.

Ground meat, sausage and bacon

Hamburgers, meatballs and bacon release fat as they cook, and the basket drains it away from the food. Pat meat dry, season it well, and leave space between pieces.

Use an instant-read thermometer rather than time alone: 145 °F for steaks, chops and roasts of beef, pork and lamb, followed by a 5-minute rest, and 160 °F for ground meat. The air fryer cooking times chart lists starting times for common cuts and for reheating leftovers.