Can You Steam Food in the Air Fryer?

The Versatility of An Air Fryer

The air fryer is known for its ability to crisp up food with little to no oil, but can it also be used for steaming? While air fryers circulate dry heat rather than moisture, there are ways to create a steaming effect for perfectly tender vegetables. In this post, I will share the do’s and don’ts of steaming in the air fryer, which vegetables work well, and which don’t.

You can watch the test and the results on my YouTube channel, where I Tested Steaming in the Air Fryer!

Steaming Vegetables in the Air Fryer

Best Vegetables for Steaming in the Air Fryer

These vegetables steam well using this method:
✅ Broccoli – 12–15 minutes
✅ Cauliflower – 12-15 minutes
✅ Carrots (sliced very thin) – 15-18 minutes
✅ Green beans – 12-15 minutes
✅ Asparagus – 10-12 minutes
✅ Zucchini (thick slices or spears) – 6–8 minutes
✅ Bell peppers (sliced) – 10-12 minutes
✅ Brussels sprouts (halved) – 12-15 minutes

Vegetables That Don’t Steam Well

These vegetables tend to dry out or need too much moisture to steam in the air fryer correctly:
❌ Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce) wilt too quickly.
❌ Corn on the cob – Needs more water than the air fryer can provide.
❌ Potatoes/fries/sweet potatoes – Require longer cooking times and are better boiled or roasted.
❌ Mushrooms – Release too much moisture and are better sautéed or roasted.

How to Steam Vegetables in the Air Fryer

If your air fryer has a tray or a raised basket, you can create a steaming effect by adding a little water underneath. The key is to keep the water away from the vegetables. Only use a little bit of water so the water doesn’t rise above the tray. You can also try placing a ramekin filled with water in the basket to create steam.

Here’s how to create steam in the air fryer:

Step 1: Add a Small Amount of Water Below the Tray

Pour about ¼ to ½ cups of water into the bottom of the air fryer basket (or underneath the tray if your model has a separate drip pan). This will create steam as it heats up. You can also microwave water to get it hot before adding it to the preheated air fryer.

Step 2: Preheat with Water

Set the air fryer to 300°F to 325°F and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes to start generating steam.

Step 3: Place Vegetables on the Tray

Arrange your vegetables in a single layer on the air fryer tray or raised basket, making sure they are not overcrowded to give the hot air plenty of circulation.

It is best not to use oil on vegetables or steam fatty foods. Grease can actually prevent the vegetables from absorbing moisture properly. Toss your vegetables in a little oil or butter and seasonings after steaming.

• Cover Loosely (Optional): To trap more steam, lightly cover the vegetables with aluminum foil or a heat-safe silicone lid. This helps retain moisture.

Step 4: Air Fry

Steam at 220°F (104°C) to 250°F for best results. Higher temperatures create a crispy exterior on the vegetables instead of a soft, tender texture. The water did not boil for me but got hot enough to produce steam without drying the vegetables.

• Check for Doneness: Cook for 10-15 minutes, depending on the vegetable, your air fryer model, and the cooking temperature. Check for fork tenderness and adjust as needed.
• Season After Cooking: Since steaming doesn’t add much flavor, toss the vegetables with olive oil, butter, salt, or herbs after steaming.

Is Water Safe in an Air Fryer?

Safety Tips for Adding Water to an Air Fryer:

✅ Add Water Below the Tray, not on the Heating Element – Always pour water into the bottom of the air fryer basket or drip pan, not directly on the heating element, as this could cause damage or create smoke.

✅ Use Only a Small Amount of Water – Stick to about ¼ to ½ cup of water. Too much water can splash onto the fan or heating element, which may cause electrical issues or excessive steam buildup.

✅ Avoid Pouring Water While the Air Fryer is Running – Always add water before preheating or placing food inside. Pouring water into a hot air fryer can create sudden bursts of potentially dangerous steam.

✅ Keep Air Vents Clear – Steam should be able to escape properly. Avoid blocking vents with foil, lids, or excessive food, as this can disrupt airflow and cause overheating.

✅ Use a Heat-Safe Dish for Extra Control – If your air fryer has a solid bottom, consider placing the water in a small, heat-safe ramekin or dish instead of directly in the basket. This helps control steam production and prevents water from splashing.

Final Thoughts

Many nutrients are lost during the cooking process. However, steaming vegetables in the air fryer is a gentle cooking method that helps preserve your produce’s natural vitamins and minerals and vibrant colors.

Using steam rather than dry heat, you can cook vegetables without added fats, making it an ideal technique for healthy cooking. Plus, it’s a convenient way to get perfectly tender veggies in just a few minutes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or want to experiment with new vegetables, steaming in the air fryer is a simple and effective option for anyone wanting to enjoy nutritious, flavorful meals with minimal effort.

More Vegetable Recipes in the Air Fryer:

• The Best Summer Squash Recipe
• Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
• Eggplant Parmesan Bites
• Korean Fried Cauliflower in the Air Fryer
• Roasted Zucchini Tomato and Corn Salad

Air fryer tips and tricks

• Air Fryer 101
• Learn these common Air Fryer Mistakes!
• All about the Best and Worst Air Fryer Accessories
• How to Clean Your Air Fryer
• How to Cook Any Recipe in the Air Fryer
• FREE Download → Air Fryer Tips & Temps
• Air Fryer Buying Guide
• Watch Fabulessly Frugal YouTube Channel for Air Fryer Recipes

Keep up to date on our newest air fryer recipes!

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