Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

Introduction

You’ll never boil water for hard boiled eggs again once you try this incredibly simple air fryer method. This technique delivers perfectly cooked eggs with creamy yolks and easy-to-peel shells every single time. It’s a game-changer for meal prep or a quick protein snack.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 11 minutes

Total Time: 26 minutes

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 10 eggs (you can cook up to 12 depending on the size of your air fryer)

Instructions

1. Set the air fryer to 270°F (132°C). Cook for 11 minutes.
2. While the eggs are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice.
3. When the cooking time is complete, immediately transfer the hot eggs to the prepared ice bath using tongs.
4. Let the eggs cool in the ice bath for at least 10-15 minutes.
5. Peel the eggs by gently tapping them on the counter and rolling them under your palm. The shells should slip off easily under running water. Enjoy immediately or store for later.

Variations

1. Softer Yolks: For jammy, soft-boiled eggs with a runny center, reduce the cook time to 9-10 minutes.
2. Easy-Peel Trick: Add a tablespoon of white vinegar or baking soda to the ice water bath; many find this helps loosen the shell membrane.
3. Marinated Eggs: Peel the cooked eggs and soak them in a mixture of soy sauce, water, and a touch of mirin for a few hours to create flavorful ramen eggs.
4. Serving Ideas: Slice and serve over salads, mash for egg salad, or simply sprinkle with salt and pepper for a quick snack.

Tips for Success

1. Use large eggs for the most consistent results. Extra-large or jumbo eggs may require an additional 1-2 minutes.
2. If your eggs are straight from the refrigerator, you can cook them immediately; no need to bring them to room temperature.
3. Avoid stacking eggs. A single layer ensures even cooking and prevents them from knocking into each other and cracking.

Storage & Reheating

FAQ

1. Why did my eggs crack in the air fryer?

A small crack is normal and won’t affect the final egg. To minimize cracking, ensure eggs aren’t touching each other or the sides of the basket, and avoid preheating the air fryer.

2. Can I cook fewer than 10 eggs at once?

Absolutely! The time and temperature remain the same whether you cook 2 eggs or 10, as long as they are in a single layer.

3. How do I get the eggs to peel easily?

The ice bath immediately after cooking is crucial. It contracts the egg inside the shell, creating a gap. Peeling under cool running water also helps.

4. What if my air fryer doesn’t go as low as 270°F?

Set it to the lowest possible temperature (often 300°F or 150°C) and reduce the cook time. Start checking at 9 minutes and adjust as needed.

5. Are the eggs safe to eat? The yolks look a little green sometimes.

Yes, they are safe. A greenish-gray ring around the yolk is a harmless reaction between iron in the yolk and sulfur in the white, often caused by a slightly longer cook time or a very hot ice bath. Using the recommended time and a properly icy bath minimizes this.

6. Can I make soft-boiled eggs using this method?

Yes. For a runny yolk, cook at 270°F for 9-10 minutes. Experiment with a single egg first to find your perfect timing.