Can I Cook Frozen Dumplings in an Air Fryer Fast and Crispy

Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer for a fast, crispy, and oil-free meal in under 15 minutes. Simply preheat the air fryer, arrange dumplings in a single layer, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness. No thawing or extra oil needed—just perfectly golden, restaurant-quality dumplings every time.

Key Takeaways

• Cook frozen dumplings directly: No thawing needed—air fry from frozen for best results.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat air fryer to ensure even, crispy dumplings.
• Use minimal oil: Light spray enhances crisp without sogginess or extra calories.
• Arrange in single layer: Avoid overlap to promote even air circulation and browning.
• Cook in batches if needed: Prevents overcrowding and ensures perfect texture every time.
• Shake halfway through: Flip or shake dumplings for uniform crisp on all sides.

The Air Fryer Revolution: Dumplings Done Right

Let’s be real—frozen dumplings are one of those magical foods that can turn a chaotic weeknight into something deliciously manageable. You’re standing in front of your freezer, staring at that pack of dumplings you’ve been saving for a “rainy day,” and suddenly you remember: “Wait, can I cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer?” The answer is a resounding yes—and not just yes, but a yes with benefits. Crispier edges, less oil, faster cook time, and no soggy bottoms? Sign me up.

I’ll never forget the first time I tried it. I was skeptical. Dumplings? In an air fryer? That little countertop appliance that’s supposed to “fry without frying”? But after one batch, I was hooked. The dumplings came out golden, slightly blistered, and so satisfyingly crunchy on the outside that I almost forgot they were frozen. No more waiting for a pan to heat up, no more flipping, no more oil splatters on the stovetop. Just pop them in, set the timer, and walk away. If you’ve ever wondered whether your air fryer can handle frozen dumplings, this post is for you. I’m going to walk you through everything—from how to do it right, to what to avoid, and even how to make them taste like they came from your favorite takeout spot.

Why Air Fryer Cooking Works for Frozen Dumplings

So, what makes the air fryer such a perfect match for frozen dumplings? It’s not magic—it’s science, wrapped in convenience. Air fryers work by circulating super-heated air around food at high speed. This process, called convection, crisps up the exterior while cooking the inside evenly. For dumplings, which are often doughy and dense, this method is a game-changer.

The Science of Crispiness

Traditional pan-frying requires oil, which can lead to uneven browning or greasy results. Boiling? That gives you soft, tender dumplings, but you lose the crisp factor. The air fryer strikes a balance. The hot air hits the dumplings from all sides, creating a Maillard reaction—that’s the fancy term for the browning that gives food its savory, complex flavor. Because the dumplings are frozen, they retain moisture inside, so you get a juicy filling with a crisp wrapper. It’s the best of both worlds.

Plus, frozen dumplings are already pre-cooked (usually steamed or par-cooked), so you’re just reheating and crisping. The air fryer heats them from the outside in, sealing in the juices before the inside warms through. That’s why you don’t end up with dry, rubbery dumplings—something I’ve definitely experienced with microwaving.

Health and Convenience Benefits

Let’s talk practicality. Air frying uses up to 80% less oil than deep frying. That means fewer calories, less grease, and a cleaner kitchen. No oil splatter on your stovetop, no lingering smell in your apartment. And cleanup? A quick wipe of the basket or a toss into the dishwasher (if it’s safe). For busy parents, college students, or anyone juggling a packed schedule, this is a win.

Another perk: speed. While boiling or pan-frying can take 10–15 minutes with prep and monitoring, air frying can be done in 10–12 minutes with minimal hands-on time. You can prep a dipping sauce, set the table, or even fold laundry while your dumplings cook. I’ve even used this time to prep a quick side salad—efficiency at its finest.

No More Soggy Bottoms

One of the biggest frustrations with pan-fried dumplings is the dreaded “soggy bottom.” It happens when dumplings sit in a puddle of oil or water after steaming. The air fryer solves this by elevating the dumplings (usually on a rack or in a perforated basket) and allowing air to circulate underneath. No puddles. No mush. Just consistent, all-around crispiness. Trust me, your taste buds will notice.

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

Now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here’s my go-to method for cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer—tested across brands, types, and air fryer models (from basket-style to oven-style). This is the method I use every time I want dumplings without the hassle.

Prep Your Air Fryer Basket

Start by lightly spraying or brushing the air fryer basket with oil. I use avocado or canola oil—both have high smoke points. This step is crucial. Without it, dumplings can stick, especially if they’re not pre-oiled. If your dumplings come in a pack with oil (some do), you can skip this, but I still recommend a light spray for extra crispiness.

Pro tip: Line the basket with parchment paper (the perforated kind made for air fryers) if you hate scrubbing. Just make sure the paper doesn’t block airflow—otherwise, you’ll lose the crisp factor.

Arrange Dumplings Properly

Place dumplings in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd. I learned this the hard way when I tried to cook 20 dumplings at once. Half were undercooked, half were overcooked, and the basket was a mess. Aim for 8–12 dumplings at a time, depending on your basket size. Leave a little space between each so air can flow around them.

If your dumplings are stuck together, gently separate them before placing them in the basket. If they break, no worries—just tuck the filling back in. They’ll still taste great.

Set Temperature and Time

Here’s the sweet spot: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Start at 10 minutes, then check. Most frozen dumplings will be perfectly golden and heated through by then. If you like them extra crispy, add 1–2 more minutes.

Note: If your air fryer runs hot (like mine does), you might want to start at 360°F and adjust. Every model is a little different. I recommend doing a test batch to find your perfect settings.

Flip Halfway (Optional but Recommended)

At the 5–6 minute mark, open the basket and give the dumplings a quick flip. This ensures even browning on both sides. Use tongs or a silicone spatula—metal can scratch the non-stick coating. I’ll admit, I sometimes skip this step when I’m in a rush, but the difference in crispiness is noticeable. If you’re aiming for restaurant-level results, take the extra 30 seconds.

Check for Doneness

After the timer goes off, check one dumpling. It should be golden brown, slightly blistered, and the filling should be steaming hot inside. If it’s still pale or the filling feels cold, add 1–2 more minutes. Remember: frozen dumplings are pre-cooked, so you’re just reheating and crisping—not starting from raw.

Best Practices and Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Even with the right method, small tweaks can make a big difference. Here are the tips I’ve picked up after cooking way too many dumplings in my air fryer.

Choose the Right Dumplings

Not all frozen dumplings are created equal. Some are better suited for air frying than others. Look for dumplings that are:

• Thin-wrappers (like potstickers or gyoza) – they crisp up beautifully.
• Pre-oiled or marinated – they’ll brown faster and stick less.
• Not too large – smaller dumplings cook more evenly in an air fryer.

I’ve had great luck with brands like Trader Joe’s, Bibigo, and Costco’s Kirkland Signature. Avoid dumplings with thick, doughy wrappers (like some Chinese jiaozi)—they can dry out or become tough in the air fryer.

Use a Light Oil Spray (Even on Pre-Oiled Dumplings)

Even if your dumplings come with oil, a quick spritz with cooking spray adds an extra layer of crispiness. I use a reusable oil mister with avocado oil—eco-friendly and effective. Just don’t overdo it. Too much oil can make the dumplings greasy instead of crispy.

Don’t Thaw First

One of the best things about this method? No thawing required. Cooking from frozen ensures the dumplings hold their shape and don’t become a soggy mess. If you thaw them first, they can stick together or absorb too much moisture, leading to uneven cooking.

Work in Batches

I can’t stress this enough: don’t overcrowd the basket. If you’re feeding a crowd, cook in batches. Reheating a second batch takes only 1–2 minutes, and the first batch stays warm in a low oven (200°F) or under a loose foil tent. Trust me, it’s worth the wait for perfectly crispy dumplings.

Add Flavor with Seasonings or Dips

Want to elevate your dumplings? Try these tricks:

• Sprinkle with sesame seeds after cooking for nutty crunch.
• Brush with a little soy sauce or teriyaki in the last 2 minutes for a glossy, savory finish.
• Serve with a killer dipping sauce—mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and a dash of chili oil.

I once added a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese seaweed seasoning) to my dumplings—game-changer. The umami boost was unreal.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned air fryer users make mistakes. Here are the top pitfalls I’ve seen (and made myself)—and how to fix them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When dumplings are packed too tightly, they steam instead of crisp. The result? Pale, chewy dumplings with no crunch. Solution: Cook in smaller batches. Your patience will be rewarded.

Using Too Much Oil

It’s tempting to douse the basket in oil for maximum crispiness, but too much oil can drip down and smoke, or make dumplings greasy. Use a light spray or brush. Remember: the goal is crisp, not greasy.

Setting the Temperature Too High

Some people crank the heat to 400°F for faster results. Bad idea. Dumplings can burn on the outside while still cold inside. Stick to 375°F or lower for even cooking. If you’re in a rush, add 1–2 minutes, not 25 degrees.

Skipping the Flip

I know, it’s tempting to just “set it and forget it.” But flipping halfway ensures even browning. If you skip it, you’ll get one golden side and one pale side. Not the end of the world, but not ideal either.

Using Non-Stick Spray That Smokes

Not all cooking sprays are created equal. Some contain lecithin or additives that smoke at high temperatures. Stick to oils with high smoke points—avocado, canola, grapeseed, or refined coconut oil. Avoid butter or olive oil—they’ll smoke and leave a residue.

Air Fryer vs. Other Cooking Methods: A Quick Comparison

To give you a clear picture, here’s how air frying frozen dumplings stacks up against other popular methods. This table compares key factors based on my own testing and user feedback.

Method	Time	Crispiness	Oil Needed	Cleanup	Hands-On Time
Air Fryer	10–12 min	High (all-around crisp)	Light spray	Easy (wipe basket)	Low (flip halfway)
Pan-Fry	10–15 min	Medium (crisp bottom, soft top)	Moderate (2–3 tbsp)	Medium (oil splatter)	High (flip, monitor)
Boil	8–10 min	Low (soft, tender)	None	Easy	Low
Microwave	3–5 min	None (soggy)	None	Easy	Low
Oven Bake	15–20 min	Medium (crisp if oiled)	Moderate	Easy	Low

As you can see, the air fryer wins on crispiness, cleanup, and hands-on time. It’s not perfect—pan-frying gives you that classic “potsticker sear” on the bottom—but for everyday cooking, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts: Dumplings Just Got a Whole Lot Easier

So, can you cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer? Absolutely. And not just cook them—make them fast, crispy, and delicious with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on a budget, or just someone who loves dumplings (who doesn’t?), this method is a total game-changer.

What I love most is how versatile it is. You can go simple—just dumplings and soy sauce—or get creative with seasonings, sauces, and toppings. I’ve even used air-fried dumplings in noodle bowls, stir-fries, and as a topping for ramen. The possibilities are endless.

And the best part? No more waiting for water to boil or oil to heat. No more flipping and fussing. Just pop, set, and enjoy. It’s the kind of convenience that makes you wonder why you ever cooked dumplings any other way.

So next time you’re staring at that pack of frozen dumplings, grab your air fryer. Trust me—you’ll be glad you did. Crispy, juicy, and ready in minutes. That’s the magic of modern cooking, and it’s waiting for you right on your countertop.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer directly from frozen—no thawing needed. This method saves time and yields a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

How long does it take to cook frozen dumplings in an air fryer?

Cooking frozen dumplings in an air fryer typically takes 8–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on size and brand. Shake the basket halfway for even browning.

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

A light spray of oil helps achieve a golden, crispy texture, but it’s optional. Many dumplings have enough fat in the filling to crisp up well without added oil.

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

Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment liners designed for air fryers. Leaving space between dumplings also prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Can I cook different types of frozen dumplings (like potstickers or gyoza) in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook potstickers, gyoza, or any frozen dumplings in an air fryer. Adjust time slightly based on thickness—thicker dumplings may need an extra minute or two.

Are air fryer frozen dumplings healthier than pan-fried ones?

Air-fried dumplings use less oil than pan-frying, making them a lighter option. You still get a crispy texture with fewer calories and less fat.