Can I Cook a Frozen Burrito in an Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer—and it’s one of the quickest, crispiest ways to enjoy it without thawing. Simply preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C), cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a perfectly heated, golden-wrapped burrito with a satisfying crunch. No sogginess, no hassle—just a delicious meal in under 20 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer—no thawing needed for quick, crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a golden exterior.
• Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway for optimal texture.
• Use a light oil spray to enhance crispiness without drying out the tortilla.
• Check internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
• Let it rest 2 minutes after cooking to avoid burns and improve handling.

Can I Cook a Frozen Burrito in an Air Fryer? Here Is How

Let’s be real—frozen burritos are the unsung heroes of quick meals. Whether it’s a late-night craving, a rushed lunch, or just a day when you don’t feel like cooking, that little foil-wrapped bundle of joy is there for you. But if you’ve ever microwaved one, you know the struggle: the outside gets soggy, the inside stays cold, and the tortilla turns into a sad, chewy mess. I’ve been there. I’ve stared at my microwave burrito, wondering if there was a better way.

Then I discovered the air fryer. That little countertop wonder that promises crispy fries, juicy chicken, and now—maybe—a perfectly cooked frozen burrito? I had to try it. After several experiments (and a few slightly overcooked attempts), I’m here to share everything I’ve learned. Spoiler: yes, you can absolutely cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer, and it might just be the best way to do it. Let’s dive into the how, why, and what to watch out for.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Frozen Burritos

The Problem with Microwaving

Microwaving a frozen burrito is like trying to warm a snowball in your hand—it melts unevenly, and you’re left with a wet, lukewarm disappointment. The microwave heats from the inside out, which means the filling might be hot while the tortilla is still cold or, worse, rubbery. The texture is all wrong. And let’s not even talk about the soggy foil wrapper.

How Air Frying Solves These Issues

An air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, mimicking the crispiness of deep frying without the oil. When you cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer, the heat wraps around the entire burrito, heating the tortilla from the outside while the filling warms evenly from the inside. The result? A crispy, golden exterior with a hot, flavorful filling. No sog, no cold spots—just a burrito that actually tastes like it was made fresh.

Plus, the air fryer’s dry heat helps evaporate any moisture that might build up, preventing that dreaded sogginess. It’s like giving your burrito a gentle, all-over warm hug. And because most air fryers are small, they heat up quickly and cook food faster than an oven, making them perfect for a quick meal.

Real-World Example

Take my go-to brand, El Monterey (I’m partial to the chicken and cheese flavor). Microwaving it takes about 3-4 minutes, but the tortilla is never crisp. In the air fryer, at 360°F (182°C) for 12 minutes, it’s golden, slightly crisp, and the filling is steaming hot. The difference is night and day. And the best part? No need to unwrap the foil—just pop it in as is.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Frozen Burrito in an Air Fryer

Prep: Keep It Simple

One of the best things about air fryer burritos is how little prep they need. Here’s what to do:

• Keep it wrapped: Most frozen burritos come in foil. Leave it on! The foil protects the tortilla from drying out too much while letting the heat penetrate.
• Preheat (optional): Some air fryers benefit from preheating, but with frozen burritos, it’s not essential. If you’re in a hurry, skip it.
• No oil needed: The burrito’s own fat (especially if it’s cheese or meat-heavy) will crisp the tortilla just fine. Adding oil is unnecessary and can make it greasy.

Timing and Temperature: The Sweet Spot

Here’s the magic formula I’ve perfected after testing different brands and sizes:

• Temperature: 360°F (182°C). This is hot enough to crisp the tortilla without burning it, and gentle enough to heat the filling evenly.
• Time: 12-15 minutes for a standard 6-7 inch burrito (like El Monterey or Amy’s). Larger burritos (8+ inches) may need 15-18 minutes.
• Flip halfway: After about 6-8 minutes, flip the burrito over to ensure even browning. This is key for a uniformly crispy texture.

Pro tip: If your burrito has a lot of cheese or sauce, you might see a little leakage. That’s normal! Just wipe the air fryer basket afterward to avoid smoke or lingering smells.

Checking for Doneness

How do you know it’s done? Here’s what to look for:

• The tortilla should be golden brown and slightly crisp to the touch.
• The filling should be steaming hot when you cut into it. No cold spots!
• If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer—the internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Note: If the tortilla is browning too fast but the inside is still cold, lower the temperature to 340°F (171°C) and add 2-3 more minutes. Every air fryer is a little different, so adjust as needed.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Air Fryer Burrito

Choosing the Right Burrito

Not all frozen burritos are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: Stick to 6-7 inch burritos for the best results. Larger ones (like breakfast burritos or double-sized options) may need more time and can overcook on the outside before the inside is hot.
• Filling density: Burritos with dense fillings (like meat, beans, and rice) take longer to heat through. Lighter fillings (like cheese and veggies) heat faster. Adjust time accordingly.
• Brand matters: I’ve found that brands like El Monterey, Amy’s, and Trader Joe’s hold up well in the air fryer. Avoid overly greasy or sauce-heavy burritos, as they can drip and smoke.

Adding Crispness (Without Drying Out)

If you want an even crispier tortilla, try these tricks:

• Lightly brush with oil: After unwrapping, brush the tortilla with a tiny bit of oil (avocado or olive) and put it back in for 2-3 minutes. This gives it a golden, almost fried texture.
• Use parchment paper: For extra protection, place the burrito on a small piece of parchment paper before air frying. It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Handling the Foil Wrapper

Most foil wrappers are safe for air fryers, but here’s what to keep in mind:

• Don’t let it touch the heating element: If your air fryer’s heating element is exposed (like in some basket-style models), make sure the foil doesn’t touch it. This can cause sparks or smoke.
• Check for plastic coatings: Some wrappers have a plastic lining. If you see it, unwrap the burrito and place it directly in the basket. The plastic can melt or release fumes.
• When in doubt, unwrap: If you’re nervous about the foil, unwrap the burrito and place it in the basket seam-side down. Just keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers need airflow to work properly. If you cram two burritos in a small basket, they’ll steam instead of crisp. The heat can’t circulate, and you’ll end up with a soggy, uneven result.

Solution: Cook one burrito at a time unless your air fryer is large (6+ quarts). If you’re cooking multiple, do them in batches. It’s worth the extra 12 minutes for a perfect texture.

Setting the Wrong Temperature

Too high, and the tortilla burns before the filling heats up. Too low, and you’ll wait forever for it to crisp. 360°F (182°C) is the sweet spot for most burritos, but here’s what to watch for:

• Burnt tortilla, cold inside: Lower the temp to 340°F (171°C) and add time.
• Soft tortilla, hot inside: Increase the temp to 375°F (190°C) and shorten the time by 2-3 minutes.

Forgetting to Flip

Air fryers heat from all sides, but the side touching the basket gets the most direct heat. If you don’t flip, one side will be crisp while the other stays soft.

Solution: Set a timer for 6-8 minutes, then flip the burrito. Use tongs or a fork to avoid burning your fingers. The foil wrapper makes it easy to grab.

Ignoring the Filling

The tortilla is important, but don’t forget about the filling. A cold center defeats the purpose of cooking it in the first place.

Solution: Cut into the burrito after cooking to check if the filling is hot. If it’s not, put it back in for 2-3 more minutes. A food thermometer is your best friend here.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Air Fryer Burrito Hacks

Making a DIY Burrito

Got leftover rice, beans, and cheese? Roll it up in a tortilla and air fry it! Here’s how:

• Warm the filling ingredients in the microwave or stovetop.
• Roll them tightly in a tortilla (flour or whole wheat work best).
• Wrap in foil and air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

The result is a custom burrito that’s crisp on the outside and hot on the inside. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers without turning on the oven.

Adding Toppings

Want to elevate your burrito? Add toppings after cooking:

• Fresh salsa: Adds brightness and moisture without sogginess.
• Guacamole or avocado: Creamy and cool, perfect against the warm tortilla.
• Pickled onions or jalapeños: A tangy, spicy kick.
• Crushed tortilla chips: For extra crunch.

Pro tip: Don’t add wet toppings (like sour cream) before air frying—they can make the tortilla soggy. Add them after.

Breakfast Burritos

Frozen breakfast burritos (with eggs, sausage, and cheese) work great in the air fryer too. Just keep a few things in mind:

• Eggs cook fast: Lower the temp to 350°F (177°C) and reduce time to 10-12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Meat matters: If the burrito has sausage or bacon, it may release more fat. Wipe the basket after cooking.

Comparing Cooking Methods: Air Fryer vs. Microwave vs. Oven

Method	Time	Texture	Ease	Best For
Air Fryer	12-15 minutes	Crispy outside, hot inside	Easy (just pop in)	Quick meals, crispiness lovers
Microwave	3-4 minutes	Soggy, uneven	Easiest	Emergency situations
Oven	20-25 minutes (plus preheat)	Evenly heated, less crisp	Requires preheating	Batch cooking, large burritos

As you can see, the air fryer strikes the perfect balance between speed, texture, and ease. It’s faster than the oven, crispier than the microwave, and just as simple to use. For me, it’s the clear winner.

Final Thoughts: Should You Cook Your Frozen Burrito in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely—yes. Cooking a frozen burrito in an air fryer isn’t just possible; it’s better than any other method. You get the convenience of a frozen meal with the texture and flavor of something freshly made. No soggy tortillas, no cold centers, just a golden, crispy, delicious burrito every time.

It’s also a great way to make frozen food feel a little more special. Add some toppings, serve it with a side of chips or a salad, and suddenly you’re not just eating a frozen burrito—you’re having a meal. And if you’re like me, that little upgrade makes all the difference.

So go ahead, try it tonight. Pop that frozen burrito in the air fryer, set the timer, and get ready to be impressed. I promise you won’t go back to the microwave. And once you’ve mastered the basics, don’t be afraid to experiment—DIY burritos, breakfast versions, even crispy burrito bowls (just chop it up and air fry it!). The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you.

Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer without thawing it first?

Yes, you can cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer directly from frozen—no thawing needed. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.

What’s the best way to cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer to avoid a soggy texture?

For a crispy exterior, lightly spray the burrito with oil and cook at 360°F (182°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. This method ensures even heating and a golden crust.

How long should I cook a frozen burrito in an air fryer?

Cook a standard frozen burrito in an air fryer for 12–18 minutes at 360°F (182°C), flipping once halfway. Thicker burritos may need up to 20 minutes.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking a frozen burrito?

Preheating isn’t mandatory but helps achieve consistent results. If skipping preheat, add 2–3 minutes to the total cooking time for thorough heating.

Can I cook multiple frozen burritos in an air fryer at once?

Yes, but ensure they’re arranged in a single layer with space between them for proper airflow. Cooking times may increase slightly for multiple burritos.

Is the air fryer a healthier way to cook a frozen burrito compared to a microwave?

Yes, air frying uses less oil than microwaving (which can make burritos soggy) and delivers a crispier texture with fewer added fats, making it a lighter option.