Can You Cook Frozen Foods in an Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen foods in an air fryer—it’s one of the quickest, healthiest, and most convenient ways to achieve crispy results without thawing. From fries and nuggets to full frozen meals, the air fryer cuts cooking time while reducing oil use by up to 75%, making it a must-have kitchen tool for fast, delicious, and guilt-free meals.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Air fryers safely cook frozen foods with crispy results.
• No thawing needed: Cook directly from frozen—save time and effort.
• Adjust cooking time: Add 2–5 minutes vs. fresh foods for perfect doneness.
• Shake or flip halfway: Ensures even cooking and avoids soggy spots.
• Use minimal oil: Achieve crispiness without excess fat or mess.
• Check internal temp: Ensure food reaches safe temps for safe consumption.

Why Air Fryers Are a Game-Changer for Frozen Foods

Let’s be honest: frozen foods have a bad rep. They’re often seen as the last resort—something you reach for when you’re too tired to cook, too busy to plan, or too broke to order takeout. But what if I told you that frozen doesn’t have to mean flavorless? Enter the air fryer, the kitchen gadget that’s quietly revolutionizing how we think about convenience meals. I remember the first time I tried cooking frozen chicken nuggets in my air fryer. I expected them to come out soggy or unevenly cooked, but instead, they were crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in half the time of the oven. That moment changed how I viewed frozen foods forever.

So, can you cook frozen foods in an air fryer? The short answer is a resounding yes. But it’s not just about tossing a frozen meal into the basket and hoping for the best. There’s a method to the madness—a balance of timing, temperature, and technique that turns frozen convenience into something genuinely delicious. Whether you’re reheating last night’s frozen pizza or whipping up a batch of crispy tater tots, the air fryer can handle it. And the best part? You don’t need to thaw anything first. In this guide, we’ll explore how air fryers work with frozen foods, which ones work best, and how to get the most out of your machine—without the guesswork.

How Air Fryers Work with Frozen Foods

The Science Behind Crispy Frozen Goodness

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. Think of them as mini convection ovens. They blast hot air (usually between 175°F and 400°F) around your food, creating that golden, crispy exterior we all crave. The key here is direct heat exposure, which is why frozen foods—especially those with a breaded or fried coating—respond so well. Unlike microwaves, which heat from the inside out (leading to soggy results), air fryers work from the outside in, giving you that satisfying crunch.

For frozen foods, this is a game-changer. The high heat quickly melts the ice crystals on the surface, evaporating excess moisture while simultaneously cooking the outer layer. This is why frozen fries come out crispier in an air fryer than in a microwave or even a conventional oven. The process is similar to deep frying but with up to 80% less oil. And since most frozen foods are pre-cooked (like nuggets, mozzarella sticks, or fish sticks), the air fryer just needs to reheat and crisp them—no need to worry about undercooking.

Why No Thawing Is Needed (And Why That’s a Good Thing)

One of the biggest advantages of cooking frozen foods in an air fryer is that you don’t need to thaw them first. Thawing can be a hassle—it takes time, requires fridge space, and if you forget, you’re stuck waiting. Plus, thawing can lead to uneven cooking (think: one side of your nuggets is mushy, the other still icy). Air fryers, however, are designed to handle frozen items straight from the bag.

When you skip thawing, you also preserve the food’s texture. For example, frozen veggies retain their crunch better when cooked from frozen, and frozen meats stay juicier because the ice crystals help lock in moisture. Just remember: frozen foods may take a few extra minutes to cook than their thawed counterparts. But with a little patience, the results are worth it.

Best Frozen Foods to Cook in an Air Fryer (And How to Do It)

Classic Favorites: Fries, Nuggets, and Tots

Let’s start with the classics—the foods that make frozen meals worth eating. Frozen french fries, chicken nuggets, and tater tots are all excellent candidates for the air fryer. Here’s how to cook them perfectly:

• Frozen french fries: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spread the fries in a single layer (don’t overcrowd!). Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For extra crispiness, lightly spray with oil.
• Chicken nuggets: No preheating needed. Cook at 390°F for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll come out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
• Tater tots: Cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking once. Pro tip: Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper after cooking for a flavor boost.

These foods are designed for convenience, but the air fryer elevates them from “meh” to “mouthwatering.” I’ve even had guests mistake my air-fried nuggets for takeout—they were that good.

Beyond the Basics: Pizza, Fish Sticks, and Veggies

Once you’ve mastered the classics, branch out. Here are some underrated frozen foods that shine in the air fryer:

• Frozen pizza: Yes, really! Place a small frozen pizza (personal size) directly in the basket. Cook at 375°F for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness. The crust gets crispy, and the cheese melts evenly.
• Fish sticks: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes. They’re less greasy than oven-baked ones and just as crispy.
• Frozen veggies: Try broccoli, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts. Toss with a little olive oil and seasoning, then cook at 380°F for 10–12 minutes. They come out tender-crisp and full of flavor.

The trick with these foods is to avoid overcrowding. Air fryers need space for air to circulate. If you’re cooking a large batch, do it in multiple rounds—it’s better than sacrificing crispiness.

Surprising Wins: Dumplings, Spring Rolls, and More

Don’t stop at the usual suspects. Some frozen foods you might not expect work incredibly well in an air fryer:

• Frozen dumplings: Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway. They come out crispy on one side, tender on the other—no boiling or steaming required.
• Spring rolls: Air fry at 390°F for 8–12 minutes. The wrapper gets golden and crispy, and the filling stays hot and juicy.
• Frozen empanadas: Cook at 380°F for 12–15 minutes. The crust is flaky, and the filling is perfectly warmed.

These are great for quick appetizers or snacks. I once served air-fried spring rolls at a party, and everyone assumed I’d made them from scratch. The secret? My air fryer and a bag of frozen ones.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Preheating: Yes or No?

Preheating your air fryer is a hotly debated topic. Some say it’s essential; others say it’s unnecessary. Here’s the truth: it depends on the food.

• Preheat for: Foods that benefit from a crispy crust right away (e.g., fries, nuggets, pizza). Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the right temperature when the food hits the basket.
• Skip preheating for: Foods that need a slower, more even cook (e.g., frozen veggies, dumplings). Starting in a cold basket helps prevent burning.

As a rule of thumb, if you’re cooking something with a breaded or fried coating, preheat. If it’s more delicate or moisture-rich, skip it. And if you’re in a hurry? Don’t stress. A few extra minutes of cook time will do the trick.

Shaking and Flipping: The Secret to Even Cooking

Shaking or flipping your food halfway through cooking is non-negotiable. Air fryers cook unevenly if the food is left in one position. The areas touching the basket will cook faster than the parts facing up. Shaking ensures every piece gets equal exposure to the hot air.

• For small items (nuggets, fries): Shake the basket gently.
• For larger items (pizza, dumplings): Flip them with tongs or a spatula.

I’ll admit, I used to skip this step. Big mistake. The difference in texture is night and day. Now, I set a timer to remind myself to shake or flip halfway through.

Oil: How Much (or How Little) to Use

Air fryers are marketed as oil-free cooking tools, but a little oil can make a big difference—especially with frozen foods. Here’s the scoop:

• For breaded/fried items (nuggets, fries): No oil needed. They already contain fat, which helps them crisp up.
• For leaner items (veggies, fish sticks): Lightly spray or toss with oil. This helps prevent drying and enhances browning.

I use a mist spray bottle for even coverage. A little goes a long way—you’re aiming for a thin layer, not a drenching. And if you’re watching calories, skip the oil entirely. The results might be a little less crispy, but they’ll still be delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake people make. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to soggy, unevenly cooked food. The fix? Cook in batches. It takes a little longer, but the results are worth it.

For example, if you’re cooking 20 nuggets and your basket holds 10, do two rounds. The first batch will stay warm in the oven (set to 200°F) while you cook the second. No one will ever know.

Ignoring the Instructions (Yes, Read the Package)

I get it—reading instructions feels tedious. But frozen foods vary in size, thickness, and coating, which affects cook time. A bag of thin-cut fries will cook faster than a bag of steak fries. A small pizza will need less time than a large one.

Always check the package for recommended cook times and temperatures. Use them as a starting point, then adjust based on your air fryer’s performance. And if you’re unsure? Start with a shorter time and add more if needed. It’s easier to add heat than to un-burn something.

Forgetting to Clean the Basket

Grease and crumbs build up in the basket over time, leading to smoke and unpleasant smells. Clean it after every use—or at least every few uses. Most baskets are dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing with warm, soapy water works too.

Pro tip: Line the basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Just make sure it’s air fryer-safe (no wax paper or aluminum foil).

Air Fryer vs. Oven vs. Microwave: The Ultimate Showdown

Let’s compare cooking frozen foods in three appliances: air fryer, oven, and microwave. The goal? Crispy, juicy, delicious results—without the hassle.

Appliance	Cook Time (Frozen Nuggets)	Texture	Oil Needed?	Energy Use
Air Fryer	8–12 minutes	Crispy outside, juicy inside	No (for breaded items)	Low (smaller, faster)
Oven	15–20 minutes	Moderately crispy	Sometimes	High (heats entire oven)
Microwave	2–3 minutes	Soggy, rubbery	No	Medium (but uneven)

The air fryer wins on speed, crispiness, and energy efficiency. The oven is a close second but takes longer. The microwave? It’s fast but sacrifices texture. For frozen foods, the air fryer is the clear winner.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Frozen Revolution

So, can you cook frozen foods in an air fryer? Absolutely. And not just “cook” them—turn them into something delicious, crispy, and satisfying. The air fryer isn’t just a trendy gadget; it’s a tool that makes convenience foods taste better, faster, and healthier.

Here’s my takeaway: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try frozen foods you’ve never cooked before. Adjust temperatures and times as needed. And most importantly, enjoy the process. Some of my best meals have come from a bag of frozen something and five minutes in the air fryer.

Frozen foods don’t have to be boring. With the right technique, they can be a quick, tasty solution for busy nights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you need a little comfort without the hassle. So go ahead—toss that frozen pizza in the air fryer. You might just surprise yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen foods in an air fryer! It’s one of the best appliances for quickly and evenly cooking frozen meals, snacks, and meats without thawing.

What types of frozen foods work well in an air fryer?

Frozen foods like fries, chicken nuggets, mozzarella sticks, fish fillets, and even frozen veggies cook exceptionally well in an air fryer. The circulating hot air ensures a crispy texture without excess oil.

Do I need to adjust cooking times for frozen foods in an air fryer?

Yes, cooking frozen foods in an air fryer often requires slightly longer times than fresh items—usually 2–5 minutes extra, depending on the food’s thickness. Always check for a golden, crispy finish.

Is it safe to cook frozen foods directly in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryers are designed to safely cook frozen foods. Just avoid overcrowding the basket and ensure the food reaches the recommended internal temperature for safety.

How do I prevent frozen foods from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray or brush frozen foods with oil before cooking, or use parchment paper with holes for airflow. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even crisping for your frozen foods in an air fryer.

Can you cook frozen meals (like TV dinners) in an air fryer?

Yes, many frozen meals can be cooked in an air fryer, but you may need to separate components (e.g., meat and sides) for even cooking. Check packaging instructions and adjust time as needed.