The ultimate guide to cooking frozen foods in air fryer without making mistakes

One of the main reasons frozen foods go perfectly with the air fryer is the ability to cook them without thawing. This not only reduces preparation time, but also preserves food texture and flavor. In addition:

• No need for large amounts of oil: a splash of oil (not always necessary).
• Foods turn out crispy: similar to frying but with less fat.
• Cooking is even and fast.
• Cleaning the appliance is very easy.

French fries

Baking: 12 - 18 minutes at 390°F/200°C

Extra notes: shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

Chicken nuggets

Baking: 10 - 12 minutes at 370°F/190°C

Extra notes: check for browning in the last few minutes: they should be nicely crispy on the outside. If they are very thick, extend the cooking time by 1-2 minutes and check that the inside is hot.

Fish sticks

Baking: 8 - 10 minutes at 390°F/200°C

Extra notes: turn halfway through cooking to prevent cracking and ensure crispness on both sides. For perfect results, avoid overlapping them in the basket.

Breaded vegetables

Baking: 10 - 13 minutes at 370°F/190°C

Extra notes: drizzle lightly with oil to enhance crispiness. Spread in a single layer and turn gently halfway through cooking for even browning.

Frozen cordon bleu

Baking: 12- 15 minutes at 370°F/190°C

Extra notes: turn halfway through cooking for even browning. Be careful inside: cheese may spill out when too hot. Allow to rest 1-2 minutes before serving.

Sofficini

Baking: 10 -12 minutes at 350°F/180°C

Extra notes: do not pierce them while baking to prevent the filling from leaking out. Let them cool slightly before consuming: the filling stays hot for a few minutes.

Frozen Arancini

Bake 14 -18 minutes at 370°F/190°C

Extra notes: check that the core is piping hot, especially if they contain cheese or meat sauce. To prevent them from opening, do not overcook. Better to cook them on baking paper or in the nonstick tray of the air fryer.

It depends on the model. Many modern air fryers heat up quickly, but a short preheat (2-3 minutes) can ensure more even cooking and a well-heated filling. This step is useful for example for cordon bleu, or arancini, in which the inside must be well heated without burning the outside.

Although the air fryer may run on little or no oil, a light spray of oil spray can improve the crispness and golden color of frozen foods, especially breaded or battered foods. Opt for an odorless, high-temperature-friendly oil such as peanut or sunflower oil. Avoid extra virgin olive oil: it has a lower smoke point and can alter the taste.

For even cooking, it is essential not to overfill the basket. Frozen foods should be arranged in a single layer and well spaced so that hot air can circulate freely, ensuring even browning.