Air Fryer Halloumi
Air fryer halloumi turns a block of salty Cypriot cheese into golden, squeaky slices in under ten minutes, with just a spoonful of oil and none of the spitting you get from a frying pan. The outside crisps while the middle stays soft and warm. Serve it in wraps, on a salad or with a dip for an easy snack or light lunch for two.
- Total
- 15 min
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 10 min
- Serves
- 2
- Per serving
- 470kcal
Ingredients and swaps for air fryer halloumi
Halloumi is a firm, brined cheese from Cyprus that holds its shape under heat, which is why it suits the air fryer so well. Check the label if you are cooking for vegetarians, as some brands use animal rennet. Oregano and chilli are optional: smoked paprika, za'atar or a little garlic powder work just as well.
Slice the cheese about 1cm thick for soft, golden slabs, or cut it into chunky sticks like chips. For a crunchier, more snack-like version, see air fryer halloumi fries.
How to cook halloumi in the air fryer
Tap a time to start a timer.
- Preheat Heat the air fryer to 200°C for while you prepare the cheese.
- Slice and dry Cut the halloumi into 1cm slices or chunky chip-shaped sticks. Pat every piece dry on all sides with kitchen paper, as the brine on the surface stops it browning.
- Season Toss the halloumi in a bowl with the olive oil, oregano and chilli flakes until lightly coated.
- Air fry Lay the pieces in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between them. Cook at 200°C for , turning each piece over after , until deep golden at the edges.
- Serve Serve straight away with lemon wedges to squeeze over.
What to serve with halloumi
Tuck the slices into warm pitta or wraps with tomatoes, cucumber and mint, or lay them over a rocket and roasted pepper salad. Sweet chilli sauce, honey, tzatziki and hummus all go well with the salty cheese. A squeeze of lemon cuts through the richness, and a drizzle of honey makes it a good starter with a sharp salad.
Common problems and fixes for Air Fryer Halloumi
- The halloumi sticks to the basket.
- Brush the basket lightly with oil or use a perforated air fryer liner, and wait until the cheese releases easily before turning it. Pulling too early tears the crust.
- The halloumi is pale and not crisp.
- The surface was too wet or the basket too full. Dry the slices well, keep them in one layer and add a minute or two if they are thick.
- The halloumi turns rubbery once it cools.
- It firms up quickly as it cools, so cook it just before you eat. If it does go rubbery, a minute at 200°C softens it again.
Frequently asked questions about Air Fryer Halloumi
How long does halloumi take in the air fryer?
About 8 minutes at 200°C for 1cm slices, turned halfway. Thinner slices take 6 minutes, and chunky sticks may need 9–10.
Do you need to oil halloumi in the air fryer?
A little oil helps it brown evenly and stops it sticking, so use one tablespoon for a 250g block. Dry the cheese first so the oil can coat it.
Can you cook halloumi in the oven instead?
Yes. Spread the oiled slices on a lined baking tray and bake at 220°C (200°C fan), gas 7, for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway.
Do you need to soak halloumi first?
No. Soaking is only worth it if you find halloumi too salty. Soak the slices in cold water for 15 minutes, then dry them very well before seasoning.
How did you like the recipe?
4.7 / 5 · 43 ratings
