Key Takeaways
- Cooking Totino’s pizza in an air fryer yields a crispy crust and gooey cheese in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the pizza for 8-10 minutes, ensuring you check for doneness to achieve the golden, bubbly cheese crust.
- Customize your pizza by adding extra toppings before cooking for a personalized flavor experience.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer by cooking one pizza at a time to ensure even crispiness and optimal cooking results.
- For thicker crusts, increase the cooking time by 1-3 minutes and monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Pair your air-fried pizza with complementary side dishes and dips to enhance your meal experience.
Ever find yourself craving a quick and delicious snack but don’t want to deal with the hassle of the oven? You’re not alone! Totino’s pizza is a classic go-to for many, but cooking it in an air fryer takes it to a whole new level. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden crust with gooey cheese and toppings that are perfectly cooked.
How To Cook Totino’s Pizza In Air Fryer
Cooking Totino’s pizza in an air fryer is quick and easy. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked pizza every time.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 Totino’s pizza
- Cooking spray (optional)
- Air fryer
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F. Allow it to heat for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Pizza: Remove the pizza from its packaging. If preferred, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the Pizza in the Air Fryer: Carefully place the pizza in the basket of the air fryer. Ensure it’s flat and not folded.
- Air Fry the Pizza: Cook the pizza for 8–10 minutes. Monitor it closely during the last few minutes for your desired crust crispiness.
- Check Doneness: The pizza is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Use tongs to remove the pizza from the air fryer.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a minute before slicing. Enjoy your delicious air-fried Totino’s pizza!
- Cook in Batches: If you’re making multiple pizzas, cook them one at a time for optimal crispiness.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Thicker or larger pizzas may require extra cooking time. Check frequently to prevent burning.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings before cooking for a customized flavor.
Preparing The Pizza
Preparing Totino’s pizza for the air fryer is simple and ensures a delicious result. Follow these steps to get the best out of your pizza before cooking.
Choosing The Right Type Of Totino’s Pizza
Select from various Totino’s pizza options, including classic pepperoni, four cheese, or combination. Each variety offers a unique flavor. Consider your taste preferences and any dietary restrictions when choosing. If you’re cooking for a group, opt for multiple types to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Thawing And Prepping
Thawing isn’t necessary for frozen Totino’s pizza. If you prefer a softer crust, allow the pizza to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Check the packaging for any special instructions. Remove the pizza from its packaging and place it on a flat surface. For extra flavor, sprinkle additional toppings, like extra cheese, vegetables, or seasonings. Ensure toppings are evenly distributed to avoid uneven cooking.
Air Fryer Settings
Setting the right temperature and cooking time is crucial for achieving a crispy and delicious Totino’s pizza in an air fryer. Here are some key recommendations to ensure perfect results.
Temperature Recommendations
Use 400°F for cooking Totino’s pizza in an air fryer. This temperature provides the right balance to cook the crust thoroughly while melting the cheese perfectly. Always check the air fryer’s settings, as some models may have variations. Adjust your temperature slightly if your air fryer uses hot air circulation differently.
Cooking Time Guidelines
Cook the pizza for 8–10 minutes for optimal doneness. Start by setting a timer for 8 minutes, then check the pizza. Look for bubbly, golden brown cheese as a sign of readiness. If the pizza requires more time, add 1-2 minutes and monitor closely to avoid overcooking. For thicker crusts, extend the cooking time by 1–3 minutes. Keep an eye on the pizza to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Process
Cooking Totino’s pizza in an air fryer is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a delicious, crispy pizza experience.
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set it to 400°F. This ensures even cooking and a nice crust.
- Prepare the Pizza: Remove the pizza from its packaging. If desired, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for a softer crust.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Enhance your pizza with extra toppings like cheese, veggies, or pepperoni. Distribute them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Cook the Pizza: Place the pizza in the air fryer basket. Cook it for 8–10 minutes. Check for doneness around the 8-minute mark.
- Check for Doneness: Look for bubbly, golden cheese and a crispy crust. If necessary, add 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the pizza from the air fryer. Let it cool for a minute, then cut and enjoy your meal.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook one pizza at a time to maintain air circulation for an even crispiness.
- Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about sticking, place parchment paper in the basket, but ensure air can circulate.
- Adjust Cooking Time: For thicker crust varieties, extend cooking time by 1–3 minutes while keeping an eye on the pizza.
- Experiment With Temperature: If you prefer a darker crust, try increasing the temperature slightly but monitor closely to avoid burning.
- Rotate Halfway: For consistent cooking, rotate the pizza halfway through the cooking time.
Following these steps and tips guarantees a mouthwatering air-fried pizza that satisfies your cravings.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Totino’s pizza with thoughtful serving suggestions that elevate your meal. Pairing pizza with the right sides and toppings makes for a satisfying dining experience.
Complementary Side Dishes
Select side dishes that complement your pizza for a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a delicious bread option to scoop up extra sauce.
- Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, offer a nutritious balance to your pizza slice.
- Dips: Serve marinara or ranch dressing for dipping pizza crusts, adding extra flavor.
Creative Toppings To Try
Experiment with creative toppings to elevate your pizza experience. Here are some ideas:
- Extra Cheese: Sprinkle additional mozzarella or cheddar for an extra cheesy treat.
- Spicy Peppers: Top with banana peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Onions: Add sliced red or green onions for a burst of flavor.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon bits introduce a savory element to every bite.
- Pineapple: Sweet pineapple chunks can balance out the savory flavors.
Feel free to combine these suggestions to customize your air-fried pizza for your taste preferences, turning a simple dish into an exceptional meal.
Conclusion
Cooking Totino’s pizza in an air fryer is a game changer for your snack time. You get that crispy crust and gooey cheese without the hassle of using an oven. Plus you can easily customize your pizza with your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
Whether you’re enjoying a solo movie night or feeding a group, air-fried pizza delivers deliciousness in no time. So fire up that air fryer and get ready to satisfy your cravings with a quick and tasty treat. You won’t regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cook Totino’s pizza in an air fryer?
To cook Totino’s pizza in an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F. Prepare your pizza by removing it from the packaging and adding any desired toppings. Cook the pizza for 8–10 minutes, checking for doneness when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Do I need to thaw the pizza before cooking in the air fryer?
No, thawing is not necessary for frozen Totino’s pizzas. However, if you prefer a softer crust, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
What temperature should I set my air fryer for pizza?
Set your air fryer to 400°F for optimal results. This temperature helps achieve a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese on your Totino’s pizza.
How long should I cook the pizza in an air fryer?
Start with 8 minutes of cooking time and check for doneness. If needed, add an extra 1–2 minutes. For thicker crusts, you may need to extend the time by 1–3 minutes, while monitoring closely.
Can I add extra toppings to my Totino’s pizza?
Yes! Adding extra toppings like cheese, peppers, or onions can enhance the flavor. Just ensure that the toppings are evenly distributed for consistent cooking across the pizza.
What are some serving suggestions for air-fried pizza?
You can serve air-fried pizza with sides like a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Dips such as marinara or ranch dressing also complement the dish nicely.
What types of Totino’s pizza are best for air frying?
Options like classic pepperoni, four cheese, or combination are great choices. Select based on your taste preferences or dietary needs to ensure everyone enjoys the meal.
Should I overcrowd the air fryer when cooking pizza?
No, avoid overcrowding the air fryer, as it can lead to uneven cooking. If cooking multiple pizzas, ensure there is enough space for air circulation for best results.
Can I use parchment paper when cooking in an air fryer?
Yes, using parchment paper can help prevent sticking. Just make sure to cut it to size and place it under the pizza to allow for proper airflow in the air fryer.
What should I do if my pizza isn’t cooking evenly?
If your pizza isn’t cooking evenly, try rotating it halfway through the cooking time. This helps ensure each side receives equal heat, resulting in a perfectly cooked pizza.
