Crispy Frozen Mini Pizzas in the Air Fryer

The air fryer delivers consistently crispy, delicious mini pizzas in just minutes. This air fryer frozen mini pizza method is quick, straightforward, and perfect for a snack, light lunch, or whenever you need a fast pizza fix.

A mini pizza cut into 6 slices.

Frozen mini pizzas were a common childhood staple in some regions, and their compact size and simple preparation made them an easy go-to. If you remember those plastic-wrapped mini pizzas from family gatherings, you know how comforting and nostalgic they can be. While they’re not as widespread in stores as they once were, many supermarkets and wholesale retailers still carry them.

One of the best ways to bring these frozen mini pizzas back to life is with an air fryer. From frozen to ready in about 5–7 minutes, the air fryer crisps the edges and melts the cheese without drying out the crust. It’s a fast way to get a bubbly, golden mini pizza with very little effort.

Where can I find frozen mini pizzas?

They can be harder to find than they were in the past, but here are common places to check:

  • Wholesale stores – Some warehouse retailers stock larger packs or “deluxe” versions of mini pizzas.
  • Large discount retailers – Store brands and national value brands sometimes offer small frozen pizzas or mini varieties.
  • Grocery stores – Look in the frozen section; regional store brands are often the most likely source for mini pizzas today.

You will need

Two mini pizzas from frozen on a plate.
  • Frozen mini pizzas: Keep them frozen until ready to cook — they crisp better and toppings stay in place when cooked from frozen.
  • An air fryer: Any basket-style or oven-style air fryer will work. If you use an oven-style model, add 1–2 minutes to the cook time and check for doneness.

How to make mini pizzas in the air fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 360°F (approximately 3–5 minutes, depending on your model).

A frozen pizza in an air fryer basket.
A mini pizza cooked in an air fryer basket.

Once the air fryer is hot, place a frozen mini pizza in the basket. Do not overcrowd — if necessary, cook in batches so pizzas aren’t touching. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the center is set.

A cooked mini pizza, cut into 6 pieces.

For small 7–8″ pizzas

Small pizzas that are 7–8 inches across need a bit more time. Cook at 360°F for 6–10 minutes, watching closely so the crust doesn’t over-brown and the cheese reaches a bubbly, golden finish.

Air frying tips

  • Always preheat the air fryer. A hot cooking environment promotes crisping and even browning.
  • Work in batches if needed. Avoid crowding the basket; air circulation is what creates a crisp crust.
  • Times can vary. Air fryers can run hotter over time, so items cooked later in successive batches may finish faster — check frequently.
  • Use the right tools for removal. Tongs or a small angled spatula make it easy to lift pizzas from the basket without damaging them.
A mini pizza on a plate, cut into 6 slices.

Frequently asked questions

Can you put a small frozen pizza in an air fryer?

Yes. Preheat the air fryer and cook from frozen. Mini pizzas typically take 5–7 minutes at 360°F; small 7–8″ pizzas generally take 6–10 minutes.

How long do you cook a frozen mini pizza in an air fryer?

Cook a frozen mini pizza at 360°F for about 5–7 minutes, until the edges are crisp and the cheese is fully melted.

Is frozen pizza better in the air fryer?

Many people prefer air-fried frozen pizza because the crust becomes crisp and the toppings heat quickly, producing a bubbly finish similar to takeout.

Air Fryer Frozen Mini Pizza — Recipe

A close up of a frozen mini pizza.

Air Fryer Frozen Mini Pizza

Mini pizzas cooked in the air fryer are crispier and quicker than oven-baked versions — a great solution for a simple snack or fast lunch.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
Total Time: 7–10 minutes
Servings: 1 pizza
Calories: 358 kcal

Ingredients

  • Frozen mini pizza

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for about 3–5 minutes, following your manufacturer’s guidance.
  2. Place a frozen mini pizza in the basket. Do not overlap pizzas; cook in batches if necessary.
  3. Cook for 4–7 minutes for mini pizzas, or 6–10 minutes for 7–8″ small pizzas, until the crust is crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Use tongs or a spatula to remove the pizza and allow it to cool 2–3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Times vary by air fryer model. Watch the first batch closely to determine the optimal time for your machine. Oven-style air fryers may require 1–2 additional minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 358 kcal | Carbohydrates: 29 g | Protein: 13 g | Fat: 21 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Sodium: 796 mg

Author: Dorothy Bigelow

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