This article contains the AF080 Series Ninja® Mini Air Fryer FAQs. This supports the AF080 and AF080C SKUs.
How to Operate
How do I start a cook function?
To start the cook function, turn the dial to the desired cook time.
Do I have to let the unit preheat before I start cooking?
Preheating is not needed.
Do I need to defrost frozen foods before air frying them?
It depends on the food. Follow package instructions. For food without instructions, refer to our cooking charts for more information.
How do I cancel a cooking function?
Manually turn the timer dial counter clockwise until you hear a "ding". The unit is now off.
Does the unit pause when I remove the basket?
No, the unit will not pause when you remove the basket.
Can I remove the basket at any time during cooking?
Yes, you can remove the basket at any point during cooking. We recommend you remove the basket a few times during cooking to shake/stir your ingredients to ensure even cooking.
How do I adjust the temperature or time while cooking?
The unit does not allow for temperature adjustment during cooking. It will operate at 400 degrees F. You can adjust the time by moving the dial manually at any time during the cook process.
When should I use the crisper plate?
For best cooking results, use the crisper plate when you want food to come out crispy. The plate elevates the food in the basket so that air can flow under and around it to cook ingredients evenly.
How do I know if the unit is on?
After during the dial, the LED light above the dial will illuminate.
The crisper plate won't come out of the basket.
When removing the crisper plate, wait for the unit to cool, then remove the entire basket from the unit. To speed up the cooling process, remove the basket from the unit and run under cold water. Then reach into the basket and grab the small hole located in the center of the crisper plate. Pull up firmly to remove the crisper plate from the basket.
Product-Related Questions
What are the different functions?
The unit only air fries at 400 degrees F.
What are the temperature ranges for each function?
The only temperature the unit operates on is 400 degrees F.
Will the outside of the unit get hot?
Yes, the outside of the unit will heat up during cooking, but the dial and basket handle will remain safe to touch.
How many watts is the unit?
The unit is 1000 watts.
What are the dimensions of AF080?
The dimensions are 10.4 inches (L), 8.1 inches (W), 9.7 inches (H), 5.63 (lbs), .466 (cubic feet).
How large is the basket?
The basket holds 2 qts.
What materials are the basket and crisper plate made of?
The basket is made of aluminum with a PTFE nonstick coating. The crisper plate has a PTFE-free ceramic nonstick coating.
Cleaning
How do I clean the unit?
The unit, basket, and crisper plate should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Before cleaning, unplug the unit from the wall outlet. To clean the main unit, wipe it with a damp cloth. The basket is dishwasher-safe, but the crisper plate, and any other accessories are hand-wash only. If there is food residue stuck on the basket or crisper plate, place them in a sink filled with warm, soapy water and allow them to soak. Use a soft sponge to help remove any remaining residue. Thoroughly air-dry or towel-dry all parts after cleaning.
How often should the unit, basket, and crisper plate be cleaned?
The unit, basket, and crisper plate should be thoroughly cleaned after every use.
Cooking
Why didn't my food cook fully?
Make sure the basket is fully inserted during cooking. For consistent browning, make sure ingredients are arranged in an even layer on the bottom of the basket with no overlapping. Shake basket occasionally to toss ingredients for even crispiness.
Why is my food burned?
The food was cooked for too long. Adjust cook time and check food throughout the cycle to make sure that food does not burn.
Why do some ingredients blow around when air frying?
Occasionally, the fan from the air fryer will blow lightweight foods around. Use wooden toothpicks to secure loose, lightweight food, like the top slice of bread on a sandwich.
Can I air fry wet, battered ingredients?
Yes, but use the proper breading technique. It is important to coat foods first with flour, then with egg, then with bread crumbs. Press breading firmly onto the battered ingredients, so crumbs won't be blown off by the fan.
Can I use parchment paper or aluminum foil in the baskets?
Yes. It is safe to use parchment paper and aluminum foil in the basket. The use of aluminum foil is suggested in some recipes.
Do I have to shake the basket while cooking?
Yes. It is important to shake or rotate your food for consistent browning and crispiness. For best results, follow the recipe or cooking chart to find out how often you should shake or rotate ingredients while cooking.
Do I need to use oil when air frying?
Although oil is not required, we recommend starting with one tablespoon and adjusting for personal preference, or referencing the recipe for recommended oil amounts.
My food is not crispy/brown enough.
To achieve an even amount of crisping/browning, it is important to shake or flip your food throughout cooking. For best results, follow the recipe or cooking chart to find out how often you should shake or flip ingredients while cooking. You may also increase the cook time or add additional oil in 1-tablespoon increments. Continue to flip or shake food to ensure even browning/crisping.
Other
Why is there steam coming from the unit during cooking?
It’s normal for some steam to release through either the vents or the baskets.
Is the basket safe to put on my countertop?
The basket will heat up during cooking. Use caution when handling, and place it on heat-safe surfaces only. DO NOT place the basket on top of the unit.
Why is there a dust residue on my unit?
We recommend washing the basket and the crisper plate before first use, as per the instruction booklet. The residue is caused from protective packaging during transportation and should wash off with a single hand wash.