Air Fryer Poached Eggs

I need to clarify something first: traditional poached eggs are cooked gently in simmering water, and that’s not directly possible in an air fryer since it’s a dry-heat appliance.

However, there are two excellent workarounds to get a poached-egg result using an air fryer.

Method 1: Ramekin Method (Closest to Poached)

This uses small ramekins or silicone egg cups to contain the egg.

Ingredients

• 1–2 large eggs

• 1 tsp water per egg

• Salt and pepper

• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes.

2. Prepare ramekins — Spray two small ramekins (oven-safe) or silicone egg cups with cooking spray.

3. Crack egg into each ramekin. Add 1 tsp water on top of each egg (creates steam for gentle cooking).

4. Place ramekins in the air fryer basket.

5. Cook for 5–7 minutes:

   • 5 minutes = runny yolk (classic poached)

   • 6 minutes = semi-soft yolk

   • 7 minutes = firm yolk

6. Remove carefully — Use a spoon or silicone spatula to lift the egg out. It will hold its shape like a poached egg.

Method 2: Water Bath in Air Fryer (Advanced)

Some air fryers allow a small baking dish with water.

Instructions

1. Place a small, shallow oven-safe dish (like a 6-inch cake pan) in the air fryer.

2. Fill with ½ inch of hot water.

3. Preheat air fryer to 300°F (150°C).

4. Crack eggs directly or into small greased cups sitting in the water bath.

5. Cook for 8–10 minutes.

Note: This works best on air fryer models with a covered heating element (not exposed).

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