Can I Cook Frozen Dumplings in Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer for a quick, crispy, and oil-free meal in under 15 minutes. No thawing needed—just preheat, arrange dumplings in a single layer, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. Perfect for a fast snack or appetizer with minimal cleanup!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer—no thawing needed for quick, crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a golden, crispy exterior.
• Lightly oil dumplings to enhance crispiness and prevent sticking during air frying.
• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure optimal air circulation.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking for uniform browning and texture.
• Check internal temperature—dumplings are safe at 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Why Air Frying Frozen Dumplings Is a Game Changer

Let’s face it—frozen dumplings are a pantry superhero. They’re convenient, delicious, and perfect for those days when cooking feels like a chore. But here’s the real question: can I cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer? If you’ve ever stood in front of your freezer, dumplings in hand, wondering if your air fryer could save you from the usual boil, pan-fry, or microwave routine, the answer is a resounding yes.

I discovered this little kitchen hack during a busy week when my stove was occupied with a slow-cooking stew and my microwave was on its last leg (literally—it made a noise like a dying robot). I had a bag of frozen dumplings, a craving for something crispy, and an air fryer gathering dust on the counter. Why not try it? To my surprise, the result was golden, crispy dumplings with tender, juicy filling—no oil splatter, no soggy bottoms, and minimal cleanup. Since then, I’ve made them this way almost every week.

Air frying frozen dumplings isn’t just a shortcut—it’s a smarter way to cook. It gives you that restaurant-style sear without the mess, and it works for almost any dumpling style, from pork and cabbage to vegetarian tofu. Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or just someone who loves quick, tasty meals, this method deserves a spot in your cooking rotation.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science Behind Crispy Dumplings

The Magic of Convection Cooking

Air fryers use a simple but powerful principle: convection heating. A heating element at the top warms the air, and a high-speed fan circulates it rapidly around the food in a basket. This creates a crisp, golden exterior while cooking the inside evenly—no submerging in oil required. Think of it like a mini convection oven with turbocharged airflow.

When you cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer, the hot air hits the surface directly, evaporating surface moisture quickly. This is key to achieving crispiness. Unlike boiling, which softens the wrapper, or microwaving, which can make it rubbery, air frying gives you the best of both worlds: a crispy shell and a tender, steamy interior.

Why Frozen Dumplings Are Perfect for Air Frying

Frozen dumplings are already sealed in their own little moisture bubble. The air fryer’s dry heat breaks through the outer layer just enough to crisp it, while the trapped steam from the frozen filling keeps the inside juicy. It’s a delicate balance, but the air fryer nails it—especially when you follow the right steps.

One thing to keep in mind: not all air fryers are created equal. Some are basket-style (like the Philips or Cosori), others are oven-style (like the Ninja Foodi or Instant Vortex). Basket models tend to be more efficient for small batches, while ovens can handle larger quantities but may require more preheating. The good news? Both work great for frozen dumplings with slight adjustments.

Common Misconceptions

Some people worry that air frying frozen dumplings will dry them out. But if you follow the timing and temperature guidelines (we’ll cover that soon), they’ll come out perfectly moist. Another myth: “You need to thaw them first.” Nope! Cooking them straight from frozen is not only possible—it’s actually better. Thawing can make the wrappers sticky and prone to tearing during cooking.

And no, you don’t need to coat them in oil. While a light spray can enhance crispiness, it’s optional. I’ve tested both ways, and the difference is subtle—mostly a slightly darker color and a more even crust. If you’re watching calories, skip the oil and still get great results.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Frozen Dumplings in Your Air Fryer

What You’ll Need

• Frozen dumplings (any variety: pork, chicken, vegetable, shrimp, etc.)
• Air fryer (basket or oven style)
• Non-stick cooking spray (optional)
• Tongs or a fork (for flipping)
• Small bowl of water (optional, for sealing dumplings if needed)

Pro tip: If your dumplings have a tendency to open during cooking (some brands do), you can dab a tiny bit of water on the edges and press them gently before air frying. This helps keep the filling sealed.

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start, especially with basket models. Oven-style air fryers usually don’t need preheating, but a quick 2-minute warm-up can help.

Step 2: Arrange the Dumplings

Place the frozen dumplings in the basket or tray in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd! Leave at least a half-inch gap between each dumpling. Overcrowding traps steam and leads to soggy, uneven results. If you’re cooking more than one layer (in oven-style models), use the middle rack position for even heat.

Example: For a 5-quart basket air fryer, 8–10 dumplings is ideal. For a 6-quart oven-style, you can do 12–15.

Step 3: Lightly Spray (Optional)

If you want extra crispiness, lightly mist the dumplings with cooking spray. Use olive oil, avocado oil, or a neutral oil like canola. Don’t drown them—just a quick spritz. I use a reusable spray bottle filled with oil for this.

Step 4: Air Fry in Two Stages

Here’s the key to perfect dumplings:

1. First round: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6 minutes.
2. Flip or shake: Carefully flip each dumpling using tongs or shake the basket gently. This ensures even browning on both sides.
3. Second round: Cook for another 4–6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Total time: 10–12 minutes. The exact time depends on your air fryer model, the dumpling size, and how frozen they are. Larger dumplings (like potstickers) may need up to 14 minutes. Smaller ones (like mini gyoza) cook faster—around 8–10 minutes total.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

How do you know they’re ready? Look for a golden-brown crust with no gray, wet spots. The wrapper should feel firm, not squishy. If you’re unsure, cut one open—the filling should be hot and steaming, not frozen in the center.

Pro tip: If the top is browning too fast but the bottom is still pale, flip them again halfway through the second round. Some air fryers have hot spots, so rotating the basket or switching tray positions can help.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Choose the Right Dumpling Brand

Not all frozen dumplings are equal. Some are thinner-skinned (like Japanese gyoza), others are thicker (like Chinese jiaozi). Thinner wrappers crisp up faster and may need slightly less time. I’ve had great success with brands like:

• Bibigo (thin, delicate, crisps beautifully)
• Trader Joe’s (hearty, holds up well)
• Wei-Chuan (authentic, slightly thicker)
• Costco’s Kirkland Signature (large, great for family meals)

Test a few brands to see which you like best. I prefer Bibigo for their delicate texture, but Kirkland’s are more filling for larger appetites.

Don’t Overcrowd—Seriously

This is the #1 mistake people make. When dumplings are too close, hot air can’t circulate properly. You’ll end up with steamed dumplings instead of crispy ones. If you have a large batch, cook in multiple rounds. Yes, it takes longer, but the quality is worth it.

Use a Drip Tray or Parchment Liner (Optional)

Some air fryers come with a drip tray to catch excess moisture. If yours doesn’t, you can use a small heat-safe bowl filled with water in the bottom of the basket (away from the heating element). This adds a touch of steam to keep the inside moist without making the wrapper soggy.

Alternatively, use air fryer parchment paper liners. They’re non-stick, prevent sticking, and make cleanup a breeze. Just make sure they’re designed for air fryers—regular parchment can catch fire if it touches the heating element.

Seasoning and Flavoring Hacks

Want to jazz them up? Try these easy upgrades:

• Spice spray: Mix 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp sesame oil + a pinch of chili flakes. Lightly spray on dumplings before air frying for umami depth.
• Everything but the Dumpling: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before cooking for a crunchy, savory crust.
• Garlic butter glaze: After cooking, toss in a bowl with melted butter, minced garlic, and a splash of soy sauce.

One time, I added a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese seaweed seasoning) and it was a game-changer. The salty, nutty flavor paired perfectly with the dumplings.

Reheating Leftovers

Got extra? Don’t microwave them—reheat in the air fryer! Place them in a single layer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. They’ll come back to life with a crispy exterior, unlike the mushy texture microwaves create.

Air Fryer vs. Other Cooking Methods: A Quick Comparison

Boiling: The Traditional Route

Boiling is the classic method—drop dumplings into boiling water until they float, then simmer. It’s gentle and foolproof, but the result is soft, not crispy. Great if you’re making dumpling soup, but not ideal for texture lovers.

Boiling time: 6–8 minutes. Cleanup is minimal, but flavor is milder unless you add seasonings to the water.

Pan-Frying (Potstickers Style)

Pan-frying gives you that signature crispy bottom and tender top. You boil briefly, then fry in oil. It’s delicious but messy—oil splatters everywhere, and you need constant attention to avoid burning.

Pan-frying time: 10–12 minutes (including boiling). Requires oil, a non-stick pan, and a lid for steaming. Not the best for quick weeknight meals.

Microwaving: The Lazy Option

Microwaving is fast (3–4 minutes), but the wrapper becomes rubbery, and the filling often stays cold in the center. It’s a last resort, not a preferred method.

Bonus downside: You can’t crisp them afterward without a separate step (like toasting in a pan).

Air Frying: The Balanced Winner

Air frying combines the best of all worlds:

• Texture: Crispy exterior, tender interior
• Speed: 10–12 minutes from frozen
• Convenience: No oil splatter, minimal cleanup
• Health: Uses little to no oil
• Versatility: Works for any dumpling type

It’s not perfect—air fryers can be loud, and small models have limited capacity—but for most people, it’s the best option.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Dumplings Are Soggy or Undercooked

Cause: Overcrowding, too low a temperature, or not flipping.

Fix: Cook in smaller batches, increase temperature to 385°F (196°C) if needed, and flip halfway. If they’re still undercooked, add 1–2 more minutes per side.

Wrapper Is Burnt, Filling Is Cold

Cause: Air fryer runs too hot, or dumplings are too close to the heating element.

Fix: Reduce temperature to 360°F (182°C), use the middle rack (in oven-style models), and avoid spraying oil directly on the top.

Dumplings Are Sticking

Cause: Basket isn’t non-stick, or dumplings are too moist.

Fix: Use parchment liners, lightly spray the basket (not the dumplings), or dust dumplings with a tiny bit of cornstarch before cooking.

They’re Not Crispy Enough

Cause: Too much moisture, not enough time, or no oil spray.

Fix: Pat dumplings dry with a paper towel (gently, don’t defrost), extend cooking time by 1–2 minutes, or add a light oil spray.

Uneven Cooking

Cause: Hot spots in the air fryer, or dumplings are different sizes.

Fix: Rotate the basket halfway through, or sort dumplings by size and cook them in batches.

Data Table: Cooking Times for Different Dumpling Types

Dumpling Type	Size	Air Fryer Temp	Cooking Time (Total)	Notes
Mini Gyoza	1–1.5 inches	375°F (190°C)	8–10 minutes	Flip after 5 minutes
Standard Dumplings (Jiaozi)	2–2.5 inches	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	Flip after 6 minutes
Large Potstickers	3+ inches	375°F (190°C)	12–14 minutes	Flip twice for even browning
Vegetable Dumplings	2 inches	360°F (182°C)	10–12 minutes	Lower temp to avoid overcooking filling
Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)	1.5–2 inches	375°F (190°C)	9–11 minutes	Delicate wrapper—handle carefully

Remember: These are guidelines. Always check for doneness by cutting one open. When in doubt, cook a little longer—undercooked dumplings can be a safety hazard.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Absolutely Can!

So, can I cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer? Absolutely—and you should. It’s faster than boiling, cleaner than pan-frying, and far tastier than microwaving. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this method delivers crispy, juicy dumplings with minimal effort.

I’ve made them for movie nights, lunchboxes, and even as a quick appetizer when friends drop by. They never fail to impress. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro cook. Just follow the steps, avoid the common mistakes, and adjust as needed.

Think of your air fryer not as a gadget, but as a kitchen ally. It takes the stress out of cooking, especially on days when time is tight. And when it comes to frozen dumplings, it turns a simple convenience food into something special.

Next time you’re standing in front of your freezer, dumplings in hand, don’t reach for the pot or the microwave. Grab your air fryer. In 12 minutes, you’ll have a plate of golden, crispy, restaurant-worthy dumplings—no mess, no fuss, just flavor. Your taste buds (and your cleanup crew) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer without thawing them first?

Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings directly in the air fryer without thawing. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even browning.

How long do frozen dumplings take in the air fryer?

Frozen dumplings typically take 8–12 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C). Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the dumpling size and air fryer model.

Do I need to use oil when cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer?

Lightly spraying or brushing dumplings with oil helps achieve a crispier texture, but it’s optional. For a healthier option, skip the oil—just monitor for browning.

Can I cook store-bought frozen dumplings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Store-bought frozen dumplings cook perfectly in an air fryer. Follow the same temperature and time guidelines for restaurant-quality results in minutes.

How many frozen dumplings can I cook in the air fryer at once?

Arrange dumplings in a single layer with space between each to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding may lead to steaming instead of crisping—cook in batches if needed.

Why are my air-fried frozen dumplings sticking to the basket?

To prevent sticking, lightly coat the basket with non-stick spray or use parchment paper liners. Avoid moving dumplings until they’re fully crisped on the bottom.