How long to cook tomatoes: 15–20 min in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan), 6–8 min in an air fryer at 200°C, 5–8 min under the grill and 3–5 min pan-fried. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
Leave cherry tomatoes whole, on the vine if you like. Halve larger tomatoes.
How to tell it’s done
Soft and starting to burst or collapse, with blistered skins.
Questions
How long to cook tomatoes in the oven?
Cherry: 15–20 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Drizzle with oil and season. Halves: 25–30 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Cut side up, with oil, salt and herbs.
How long to cook tomatoes in an air fryer?
Cherry: 6–8 min at 200°C (400°F). Cherry tomatoes, with a little oil.
How long to grill tomatoes?
Halves: 5–8 min under a hot grill. Halves, cut side up, for a cooked breakfast.
How long to pan-fry tomatoes?
Cherry: 3–5 min over a medium-high heat. Cherry tomatoes in oil until they blister.
How long to barbecue tomatoes?
Cherry: 5–6 min over direct heat. On skewers or in a foil tray.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.