Can I Cook Dumplings in Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook dumplings in an air fryer—it’s a quick, oil-free method that delivers crispy, golden results in minutes. Simply preheat, arrange dumplings in a single layer, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. Perfect for frozen or fresh dumplings, this hack saves time and cleanup while maximizing flavor and texture.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook dumplings in an air fryer for crispy, golden results without deep frying.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and optimal texture every time.
• Lightly coat dumplings with oil to enhance crispiness and prevent sticking.
• Cook in a single layer with space between to allow proper air circulation.
• Shake or flip halfway through cooking for uniform browning and doneness.
• Adjust time and temp based on dumpling size and filling for perfect results.

Can I Cook Dumplings in Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Imagine this: It’s a busy weeknight, and you’ve got a craving for something warm, savory, and satisfying—maybe a batch of juicy pork dumplings with that perfect crispy bottom. You’re standing in your kitchen, eyeing the freezer bag of dumplings, and thinking, Is there a faster way than boiling or pan-frying? That’s when it hits you—can I cook dumplings in air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes, and it might just become your new go-to method. Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm for their ability to deliver crispy, golden results with little to no oil. But do they work for dumplings? Spoiler: They absolutely do, and they do it well.

As someone who’s tested countless air fryer recipes—from mozzarella sticks to roasted vegetables—I was skeptical at first. Dumplings are delicate, with a thin wrapper that can easily dry out or stick. But after experimenting with frozen dumplings, homemade dumplings, and even store-bought potstickers, I’ve found that the air fryer not only works but often outperforms traditional methods in speed, convenience, and even texture. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student with a mini kitchen, or just someone who loves dumplings without the mess, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover how to cook them, what to expect, and how to avoid common pitfalls—all while keeping things simple, fast, and delicious.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Dumplings

Let’s be honest: cooking dumplings the traditional way can be a bit of a hassle. Boiling them takes time, and you risk overcooking the wrappers or losing the filling’s moisture. Pan-frying (especially the potsticker method) gives you that beloved crispy bottom, but it requires constant attention, oil splatters, and a watchful eye to prevent burning. Enter the air fryer—a countertop appliance that uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly, with minimal oil. But how does it stack up for dumplings?

Faster Cooking, Less Mess

One of the biggest wins with air fryer dumplings is speed. While boiling or pan-frying can take 10–15 minutes, air frying typically gets the job done in 8–12 minutes—especially if you’re using frozen dumplings straight from the freezer. No thawing required. Plus, you’re not dealing with a pot of boiling water or a greasy pan to clean afterward. Just place the dumplings in the basket, set the timer, and walk away. I’ve even cooked them while helping my kids with homework—no babysitting the stove.

Even Crisping Without Oil (Or With Less)

Air fryers use convection to crisp food from all sides. For dumplings, this means you can get a golden, slightly crispy exterior—especially on the bottom—without deep frying or using a heavy layer of oil. I tested two batches: one with a light spray of oil and one with none. The sprayed batch had a slightly crispier texture, but the un-oiled version still had a pleasant bite and didn’t stick. If you’re watching your oil intake or just hate the greasy aftermath, this is a huge plus.

Great for Batch Cooking and Reheating

Another underrated benefit? The air fryer is perfect for reheating leftover dumplings. I’ve tried microwaving them—disaster. They become soggy and rubbery. But in the air fryer? They come out warm, with a slight crisp, almost like they were freshly made. Plus, you can cook a whole batch at once (depending on your basket size), making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Dumplings in an Air Fryer

Ready to try it? Here’s a foolproof method I’ve perfected over dozens of batches. Whether you’re using frozen, fresh, or homemade dumplings, these steps will help you get consistent, delicious results every time.

Prep Your Dumplings

Start with your dumplings—frozen or fresh. If they’re frozen, you don’t need to thaw them. In fact, cooking them straight from frozen helps prevent them from sticking together or breaking apart. I once tried thawing a batch first, and they clumped up in the basket. Lesson learned: keep them frozen for best results.

• Spacing matters: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave about ½ inch between each dumpling so air can circulate. If you have a small air fryer (3–4 quarts), cook in batches.
• Lightly oil (optional): A quick spray of avocado, olive, or cooking oil helps crisp the wrappers. I use a reusable spray bottle with a 1:1 mix of water and oil—it gives a light mist without overdoing it.

Set the Temperature and Time

Here’s where things get flexible. I’ve tested different settings, and here’s what works best:

• Frozen dumplings: 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway through (at 4–5 minutes) for even browning.
• Fresh or thawed dumplings: 360°F (182°C) for 6–8 minutes. Less time because they’re not frozen solid.
• Extra crispy? Add 2–3 minutes at the end, but keep an eye on them—wrappers can dry out if overcooked.

The Flip Technique

Flipping is key. I use silicone-tipped tongs or a small spatula to gently turn each dumpling at the halfway mark. This ensures the bottom gets crispy without burning the top. Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the flip, but the texture won’t be as balanced. I once tried cooking a batch without flipping—bottoms were perfect, but tops were pale and soft. Not ideal for dumpling purists.

Check for Doneness

How do you know when they’re done? Look for:

• Wrappers that are golden brown and slightly puffed.
• No visible ice or cold spots (if frozen).
• A firm, not rubbery, texture when gently pressed.

If you’re unsure, cut one open—the filling should be steaming hot. I’ve made the mistake of assuming they’re done just because they look crispy, only to find a cold center. Not a good bite.

What Types of Dumplings Work Best?

Not all dumplings are created equal—and some perform better in the air fryer than others. Let’s break down what works, what doesn’t, and how to adapt based on your favorite variety.

Frozen Dumplings (Store-Bought)

These are the easiest and most reliable. Brands like Tai Pei, Bibigo, and Wei-Chuan cook beautifully in the air fryer. I’ve tested pork, chicken, vegetable, and even shrimp dumplings—all came out juicy and evenly cooked. The key is spacing and flipping. One caveat: avoid dumplings with thick, glutinous wrappers (like some Chinese jiaozi or Korean mandu with extra-thick skins). They can dry out or become tough.

Fresh or Homemade Dumplings

Yes, you can air fry fresh dumplings! They cook faster, so reduce the time by 2–3 minutes. I made a batch of homemade pork and cabbage dumplings and air fried them at 360°F for 7 minutes (with a flip at 3.5 minutes). The result? Tender, flavorful, and slightly crisp—no boiling water or oil splatter. Just make sure they’re not too wet before cooking. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of crisping.

Potstickers and Gyoza

These are perfect for the air fryer. Their flat bottoms make flipping easy, and they get that iconic crispy crust. I use the same method as frozen dumplings but often add a splash of water to the basket (about 1 tbsp) to create a little steam at the start. This helps the filling cook through without drying out the wrappers. After 4 minutes, I remove the water (carefully!) and let them crisp for the remaining time.

Dumplings to Avoid (or Adapt)

Some styles don’t translate as well:

• Boiled or soup dumplings (like xiaolongbao): These are meant to be steamed, not crisped. The air fryer will dry them out.
• Dumplings with delicate, translucent wrappers (like har gow): They can become tough or crack.
• Large, stuffed dumplings: They may not cook evenly. Cut them in half if needed.

That said, I once tried air frying mini har gow—small, shrimp-filled dumplings with thin wrappers. I cooked them at 350°F for 6 minutes, no flip. They came out surprisingly well, with a light crisp and juicy center. So experimentation can pay off!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Dumplings

Over the years, I’ve learned a few hacks that take air fryer dumplings from good to great. These aren’t just about cooking—they’re about flavor, texture, and making the process as smooth as possible.

Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners

Sticking is a common concern. To prevent it, I line the basket with a small piece of parchment paper (cut to fit) or use a reusable silicone liner. Just make sure it doesn’t block airflow. I once used a liner with too many holes, and the dumplings stuck anyway—so go for a solid or lightly perforated one. No paper? A light oil spray works, but it’s not foolproof.

Add Water for Steam (Optional)

For dumplings with thicker fillings, a splash of water (1–2 tbsp) at the bottom of the basket can create steam in the first few minutes. This helps cook the center without drying out the wrapper. Just remember to remove it before the final crisping stage—otherwise, you’ll get soggy dumplings.

Season the Basket or Dumplings

Want extra flavor? Lightly brush the dumplings with soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili oil before cooking. I do this with frozen dumplings for a more restaurant-quality taste. Just don’t overdo it—wet wrappers can steam instead of crisp. Another trick: sprinkle with sesame seeds or scallions after cooking for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Don’t Overcook

It’s easy to set the timer and forget, but dumplings can go from golden to leathery in minutes. Set a timer for the flip, then keep an eye on them. I use my air fryer’s window (if it has one) or pause it to check. If you’re new to air frying, start with the minimum time and add more if needed.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

Air fryer dumplings are delicious on their own, but a good dipping sauce elevates them. Try:

• Soy sauce + rice vinegar + a dash of sesame oil
• Chili oil + garlic + green onion
• Hoisin sauce + lime juice

I keep a small bowl of sauce ready while the dumplings cook—so they’re hot and fresh when I dip.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best cooks make mistakes. Here are the ones I’ve made—and how to fix them before they ruin your dumpling night.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When dumplings are too close, they steam instead of crisp. I once tried cooking 20 dumplings in a 4-quart basket—they came out pale and soft. Now, I stick to 8–10 per batch, with plenty of space. If you have a larger air fryer (6+ quarts), you can do more, but still leave room for air.

Not Flipping (or Flipping Too Hard)

Skipping the flip leads to uneven cooking. But flipping too roughly can break the wrappers. Use soft-tipped tongs or a small silicone spatula, and be gentle. I once got impatient and used metal tongs—ended up with a few dumplings in pieces. Not a good look.

Using Too Much Oil

A light spray is fine, but too much oil can cause smoke or a greasy texture. I’ve seen recipes that call for brushing dumplings with oil—don’t do it unless you want a fried dumpling, not an air-fried one. Stick to a mist or light drizzle.

Ignoring Your Air Fryer’s Quirks

Every air fryer is different. Mine runs a bit hot, so I reduce the temp by 10–15°F from standard recipes. Test a small batch first, and adjust as needed. Also, some models have hotter spots—rotate the basket if your dumplings brown unevenly.

Forgetting to Preheat (Sometimes)

Preheating helps, but it’s not always necessary. For frozen dumplings, I skip it to save time. For fresh dumplings, I preheat for 2–3 minutes. It depends on your model and how crisp you want them.

Data: Air Fryer Dumpling Cooking Times (Quick Reference)

Dumpling Type	Temperature	Cooking Time	Flip?	Oil?	Notes
Frozen (store-bought)	375°F (190°C)	8–10 minutes	Yes (at 4–5 min)	Light spray (optional)	No thawing needed
Fresh or homemade	360°F (182°C)	6–8 minutes	Yes (at 3–4 min)	None or light spray	Check for doneness
Potstickers/gyoza	375°F (190°C)	8–10 minutes	Yes (at 4–5 min)	Light spray	Add 1 tbsp water for steam (optional)
Extra crispy	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	Yes (at 5 min)	Light spray	Watch for overcooking

So, can I cook dumplings in air fryer? Absolutely. It’s faster, cleaner, and often tastier than traditional methods. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, cooking frozen dumplings for a quick meal, or experimenting with homemade versions, the air fryer delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results. Just remember the basics: don’t overcrowd, flip halfway, and keep an eye on the clock. With a little practice, you’ll be turning out restaurant-quality dumplings in under 15 minutes—no oil splatters, no boiling water, and no stress. Next time your dumpling craving hits, skip the stove and reach for the air fryer. Your taste buds (and your kitchen) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook dumplings in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook dumplings in an air fryer! It’s a quick and oil-free way to achieve crispy, golden dumplings without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How long do dumplings take to cook in an air fryer?

Most dumplings take 8–12 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C), depending on size and filling. Shake the basket halfway through for even browning.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for dumplings?

Preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) helps achieve consistent results, but it’s optional. Cooking times may increase slightly if skipped.

Can I cook frozen dumplings in the air fryer without thawing?

Yes, air fry frozen dumplings directly—no thawing needed. Add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time and spray lightly with oil for crispier results.

What’s the best way to prevent dumplings from sticking in the air fryer?

Lightly spray or brush dumplings with oil before cooking, and avoid overcrowding the basket. Use parchment paper liners for extra insurance against sticking.

Can I air fry dumplings with different fillings, like pork or vegetable?

Absolutely! The air fryer works well for all dumpling types, including pork, chicken, or veggie. Adjust cook time slightly if fillings vary in density or moisture.