Can I Cook Frozen Potstickers in an Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer—and they come out crispy, golden, and delicious in just 10–12 minutes. No thawing or oil spraying needed; simply arrange them in a single layer, air fry at 375°F (190°C), and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Cook straight from frozen: No thawing needed—air fryer handles frozen potstickers perfectly.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) first.
• Light oil spray: Enhances browning and prevents sticking without excess fat.
• Don’t overcrowd: Arrange in single layer for even, crispy results.
• Cook 8–12 minutes: Flip halfway for golden, restaurant-quality dumplings.
• Check internal temp: Ensure 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Why Air Fryers and Frozen Potstickers Are a Match Made in Kitchen Heaven

Let’s be honest: we’ve all been there. It’s 6 p.m., you’re tired, the fridge is looking sad, and the only thing standing between you and a satisfying dinner is a pack of frozen potstickers sitting in the freezer. You could boil them, sure. Or pan-fry them—if you have the patience to hover over a sizzling pan. But what if I told you there’s a faster, easier, and crispier way? Enter the air fryer—the modern kitchen hero that’s turning frozen dumplings into golden, juicy delights in under 15 minutes.

I first tried cooking frozen potstickers in my air fryer out of sheer desperation. I had guests coming over, and the only appetizer I had on hand was a half-finished bag of store-bought potstickers. I’d heard rumors about air fryers making frozen dumplings taste “almost restaurant-quality,” so I gave it a shot. Spoiler: they were a hit. The outside was perfectly crisp, the inside stayed juicy, and I didn’t have to babysit a pot of boiling water or deal with oil splatters. Since then, I’ve experimented with different brands, cooking times, and techniques—and I’ve learned a lot about what works (and what doesn’t). So, can you cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer? Absolutely. And I’m here to show you exactly how to do it, step by step.

How Air Fryers Work: The Science Behind the Crisp

Understanding the Air Fryer’s Secret Weapon

Before we dive into the potsticker process, let’s talk about why air fryers work so well with frozen dumplings. Unlike traditional ovens that rely on radiant heat or stovetops that use conduction (direct contact with heat), air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. Think of it like a mini convection oven with a turbo boost. A heating element warms the air, and a high-speed fan blows it around the food at high velocity. This creates a crisp, golden exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender—perfect for something like potstickers, which need both texture and flavor.

Why This Matters for Frozen Potstickers

Frozen potstickers are already partially cooked during manufacturing. The goal isn’t to “cook” them from raw—it’s to reheat them while enhancing their texture. Boiling them makes them soft, and pan-frying can be messy. But air frying? It gives you the best of both worlds: the crisp bottom of a pan-fried dumpling, with even heat distribution that prevents soggy spots. Plus, since the air fryer circulates hot air 360 degrees around each potsticker, they cook more evenly than in a single-direction heat source like a stovetop.

Bonus: Less Oil, More Flavor

One of the biggest perks of air frying is that it requires little to no oil. Most frozen potstickers already have a small amount of oil in their wrappers (especially if they’re labeled “pan-fry” style). When air-fried, that built-in oil heats up and crisps the bottom naturally. You don’t need to add extra—saving calories and cleanup time. I once tested a batch with and without a light spray of oil. The sprayed ones were slightly crispier, but the difference wasn’t dramatic. So if you’re trying to cut back on fat, you can skip the oil entirely and still get great results.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Frozen Potstickers in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer (Or Not?)

Here’s a common debate: should you preheat your air fryer? For frozen potstickers, it’s optional, but I recommend it for the best texture. Preheating (usually 3–5 minutes at 375°F/190°C) ensures the air fryer is hot when the potstickers go in, which helps the outside crisp up faster while the inside heats through. If you’re short on time, you can skip it—just add 2–3 minutes to the total cook time.

Pro tip: If your air fryer has a “preheat” function, use it. If not, set it to the cooking temperature and let it run empty for 3–5 minutes. Just don’t leave it unattended!

Step 2: Arrange the Potstickers Properly

This is crucial. Don’t overcrowd the basket. Overlapping or stacking potstickers leads to uneven cooking—some will be crispy, others soggy. Arrange them in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one. If you have a small air fryer (like a 3.5–4 quart model), you might need to cook in batches. I have a 5.8-quart Ninja, and I can fit 10–12 potstickers comfortably. A 2-quart model? Stick to 6–8.

Pro tip: Place the potstickers with the flat side (the bottom) down. This is the part you want crispy. If they’re folded like half-moons, make sure the seam isn’t touching the basket—it can stick.

Step 3: Light Oil Spray (Optional but Helpful)

As mentioned earlier, most frozen potstickers don’t need oil. But if you want extra crispiness (or your potstickers have a matte, non-glossy wrapper), give them a quick spray with cooking oil. Use a neutral oil like canola, grapeseed, or avocado. Hold the can 6–8 inches away and give each potsticker a light mist—don’t drench them. Too much oil can drip into the basket and cause smoking.

Pro tip: If you don’t have a spray bottle, use a pastry brush to lightly coat the bottoms. Or, place a few drops of oil on a paper towel and wipe the basket before adding the potstickers.

Step 4: Set the Time and Temperature

Here’s the golden rule: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. This works for most standard frozen potstickers (6–8 oz per dozen). After 6 minutes, flip them halfway through. This ensures even browning and prevents sticking. Use tongs or a silicone spatula—metal can scratch the basket.

Pro tip: If your potstickers are larger (like jumbo or restaurant-style), add 2–3 minutes. For smaller ones (mini dumplings), reduce by 1–2 minutes. Always check for doneness: the wrapper should be golden, and the filling should be steaming hot (165°F/74°C internally).

Step 5: Check, Flip, and Finish

At the 6-minute mark, open the basket and check the progress. The bottoms should be lightly browned. Flip each potsticker carefully. If they stick, don’t force it—let them cook 1 more minute and try again. After flipping, close the basket and cook for the remaining 4–6 minutes. When done, they’ll be golden, crisp, and slightly puffed.

Pro tip: If you notice any potstickers browning too quickly, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the remaining time. Or, remove the crispiest ones early and let the rest cook a bit longer.

Brand-Specific Tips: What Works (and What Doesn’t)

Store-Bought vs. Gourmet: A Taste Test

Not all frozen potstickers are created equal. I’ve tested everything from budget-friendly store brands (like Trader Joe’s and Costco) to pricier gourmet options (like Wei-Chuan and Dynasty). Here’s what I found:

• Trader Joe’s Chicken & Vegetable Potstickers: These cook beautifully in the air fryer. The wrapper is thin but sturdy, and they crisp up evenly. 10 minutes at 375°F is perfect.
• Costco Kirkland Signature Pork Potstickers: Larger and thicker, so they need 12–13 minutes. Flip halfway, and you’ll get a restaurant-quality crust.
• Wei-Chuan Pork & Shrimp Dumplings: These have a slightly chewy wrapper. A light oil spray helps them crisp up without drying out.
• Dynasty Vegetable Potstickers: Delicate and prone to breaking if overcooked. Reduce time to 9 minutes and check early.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Plant-based potstickers (like Amy’s or Nasoya) tend to have thinner, more delicate wrappers. They cook faster and can burn easily. I recommend:

• 365°F (180°C) instead of 375°F
• 8–9 minutes total cook time
• No oil spray (the wrappers are already oil-rich)
• Flip at 5 minutes

Gluten-Free and Specialty Dumplings

Gluten-free potstickers (like those from Thai Kitchen) have a different texture. They’re less elastic and can crack if handled roughly. To avoid this:

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C)
• Arrange them gently—don’t press down
• Cook for 10 minutes, flip at 5 minutes
• Check for doneness early—they can dry out quickly

Troubleshooting: Common Mistakes and Fixes

Problem: Soggy or Undercooked Potstickers

Cause: Overcrowding the basket, not preheating, or flipping too late.

Fix: Cook in batches if needed. Preheat the air fryer. Flip at the halfway point (around 6 minutes). If the inside is still cold, add 1–2 minutes (don’t exceed 15 minutes total).

Problem: Burnt or Overcooked Wrappers

Cause: High temperature, no flip, or delicate wrappers.

Fix: Lower the temp to 350°F. Flip halfway. For delicate brands (like Dynasty), reduce cook time by 1–2 minutes. If they’re already burnt, serve them as-is—the filling is still edible!

Problem: Sticking to the Basket

Cause: No oil, cold air fryer, or flipping too early.

Fix: Lightly oil the basket or potstickers. Preheat the air fryer. Wait at least 6 minutes before flipping. If they stick, let them cook 1 more minute and try again. A silicone liner or parchment paper (with holes) can also help.

Problem: Uneven Cooking

Cause: Overcrowding or uneven air circulation.

Fix: Leave space between potstickers. Rotate the basket halfway through if your air fryer has uneven heat (some models do). Or, shake the basket gently after 6 minutes to redistribute the heat.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Potstickers

Make Them Crispy on Both Sides (The “Double-Fry” Method)

Want extra-crispy potstickers? Try the “double-fry” trick: cook them for 6 minutes, flip, cook 4 minutes, then flip again and cook 2 more minutes. This gives you a golden crust on both the top and bottom. I do this for parties—it’s a game-changer!

Add Flavor with Seasonings

Before air frying, toss the potstickers in a small bowl with a teaspoon of soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili crisp. The heat will infuse the wrappers with flavor. Just don’t use too much liquid—it can make them soggy.

Serve with Gourmet Dipping Sauces

Elevate your meal with easy, homemade sauces:

• Spicy Ginger Sauce: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp grated ginger, ½ tsp chili oil, 1 tsp honey
• Sweet & Sour: 3 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame seeds
• Miso-Orange: 1 tbsp white miso paste, 1 tbsp orange juice, 1 tsp sesame oil, ½ tsp grated garlic

Turn Them into a Full Meal

Pair your potstickers with:

• A simple side salad (dress with sesame vinaigrette)
• Steamed broccoli or bok choy
• Fried rice or lo mein (cook in the air fryer too!)
• A bowl of miso soup

For a “potsticker bowl,” serve them over rice with sautéed veggies and a drizzle of sauce. It’s a complete, balanced meal in minutes.

Data Table: Cooking Times for Popular Frozen Potsticker Brands

Brand	Potsticker Type	Weight (per 12 pcs)	Air Fryer Temp	Cook Time	Flip Time	Oil Spray?
Trader Joe’s	Chicken & Vegetable	7 oz	375°F	10 min	6 min	Optional
Costco Kirkland	Pork	8 oz	375°F	12–13 min	6 min	Optional
Wei-Chuan	Pork & Shrimp	6.5 oz	375°F	10–11 min	6 min	Yes (light)
Dynasty	Vegetable	7 oz	365°F	9 min	5 min	No
Nasoya	Vegan	7.5 oz	365°F	9–10 min	5 min	No
Thai Kitchen	Gluten-Free	6 oz	350°F	10 min	5 min	No

Note: Times are guidelines. Always check for doneness. Adjust for your air fryer model and personal preference.

The Verdict: Yes, You Can—And You Should

So, can you cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer? 100% yes. It’s faster, easier, and tastier than boiling or pan-frying. You get crispy, golden dumplings with juicy filling—all without the mess or stress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, craving a quick snack, or just tired of the same old dinner routine, air-fried potstickers are a game-changer.

But here’s the thing: it’s not magic. It takes a little practice to get the timing and technique right. Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. Maybe they’re a little soggy, or one or two stick to the basket. That’s normal! Every air fryer is different, and every brand of potsticker has its quirks. The key is to experiment, take notes, and find what works for you.

And remember: the air fryer is just a tool. The real magic is in the simplicity. With a few frozen potstickers, 10 minutes, and a little know-how, you can turn a frozen meal into something special. So next time you’re staring into the freezer, wondering what to make—grab that bag of potstickers, fire up the air fryer, and let the crispy magic happen. Your taste buds (and your future self) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer directly from frozen—no thawing needed. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

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

Lightly spray or brush the potstickers with oil and ensure they’re not overcrowded in the basket. This creates a non-stick surface and promotes even cooking.

What’s the best air fryer time and temperature for frozen potstickers?

For crispy results, cook frozen potstickers at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Adjust time slightly based on your air fryer model.

Can I cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer with other foods?

It’s best to cook potstickers alone for even crisping, but if needed, separate them from other items to avoid overcrowding and ensure consistent air circulation.

Do I need to add water or oil to cook frozen potstickers in an air fryer?

No water is needed, but a light spray of oil helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Avoid excess oil, as it can make the potstickers greasy.

How do I know when my frozen potstickers are fully cooked in the air fryer?

The potstickers are ready when golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cut one open to check if the filling is hot and steaming.