# The 12 Best Frozen Foods to Cook in Your Air Fryer
Excerpt: Not all frozen foods are created equal when it comes to air frying. Here are the 12 frozen items that come out absolutely perfect in an air fryer every single time.
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Your air fryer was practically designed for frozen foods. The rapid air circulation transforms sad, soggy freezer items into crispy, golden perfection in minutes — no preheating a full oven required. If you’ve ever been frustrated with limp chips or unevenly cooked frozen snacks, the air fryer is your new best mate. But some frozen foods work dramatically better than others, thanks to variations in coating, moisture content, and shape. Here are our top 12 picks for frozen foods that come out spot-on every time, plus handy tips to maximise your results.
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1. French Fries (Any Cut)
This is the air fryer's signature move. Frozen fries — whether crinkle-cut, steak-cut, or shoestring — come out crispier in the air fryer than in the oven every single time. The magic lies in the rapid, even heat that surrounds each fry, creating a crunchy exterior without drying the inside.
- Temperature: 204°C (400°F)
- Time: 12–15 minutes
- Tip: Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crisping.
Crinkle-cut and waffle fries work especially well because the ridges catch the hot air, boosting crunch. For best results, avoid overcrowding the basket — a single layer is ideal. If you want to add extra flavour, sprinkle your fries with a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic salt immediately after cooking.
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2. Chicken Nuggets
Kids and adults alike will notice the difference. Air-fried nuggets develop an evenly golden, crunchy coating that microwaves simply cannot match. Unlike deep frying, the air fryer uses minimal oil, cutting down on calories without sacrificing taste.
- Temperature: 193°C (380°F)
- Time: 8–10 minutes
Works brilliantly with any brand, including Aussie favourites like McCain or Golden Crumb. For extra tenderness, toss the cooked nuggets in your favourite dipping sauce or sprinkle with fresh parsley.
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3. Tater Tots
Tater tots are arguably even better than fries in the air fryer. The small size means maximum crispy surface area, and the air fryer delivers a beautifully uniform crunch.
- Temperature: 204°C (400°F)
- Time: 12–14 minutes
- Tip: Shake every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Because tater tots are bite-sized, they’re perfect for quick snacks or party platters. Serve with tomato sauce or aioli for a classic Aussie twist.
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4. Mozzarella Sticks
The air fryer is the only way to get truly crispy frozen mozzarella sticks without deep frying. The key is not overcrowding — leave space between each stick so hot air can circulate freely.
- Temperature: 199°C (390°F)
- Time: 6–8 minutes
- Tip: Check early to prevent cheese leakage.
If you notice any cheese oozing out, simply reduce cooking time slightly. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for an easy, crowd-pleasing starter.
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5. Fish Sticks and Fish Fillets
Frozen fish is transformed in the air fryer. The coating gets properly crispy while the fish inside stays moist and flaky — no soggy middles here!
- Temperature: 204°C (400°F)
- Time: 10–12 minutes
- Tip: Flip once halfway through cooking for even browning.
Pair with tartar sauce and a wedge of lemon for a quick fish and chips dinner that rivals your local chippy. Look out for sustainably sourced brands at Coles or Woolworths.
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6. Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls
Frozen spring rolls and egg rolls crisp up beautifully with just a light spray of oil. The wrappers get shatteringly crispy — much better than baking or microwaving.
- Temperature: 199°C (390°F)
- Time: 8–10 minutes
- Tip: Turn once halfway through cooking.
These are perfect finger food for parties or quick lunches. Try dipping in sweet chilli sauce for an authentic Aussie Asian fusion flavour.
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7. Pizza Rolls
Pizza rolls from the air fryer are a revelation. The outside gets properly crispy without the filling exploding everywhere — a common problem with microwaving.
- Temperature: 193°C (380°F)
- Time: 6–8 minutes
- Tip: Let them cool for two minutes before eating to avoid burns.
They make a fantastic quick snack or lunchbox filler for kids. You’ll find them in most supermarkets under various brands, so keep a pack handy for emergencies.
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8. Chicken Wings
Frozen chicken wings need a bit more time but the results are outstanding. No need to thaw — cook from frozen for juicy, crispy skin every time.
- Temperature: 193°C (380°F)
- Time: 20–25 minutes
- Tip: Flip halfway through cooking for even colour and crispiness.
Once cooked, toss in your favourite sauce — buffalo, BBQ, or honey soy are all crowd favourites. These are a winner for game days or casual dinner parties.
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9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are notoriously difficult to get crispy in a regular oven, but the air fryer handles them perfectly. The concentrated heat caramelises the natural sugars while crisping the outside to perfection.
- Temperature: 204°C (400°F)
- Time: 10–14 minutes
For extra crunch, give them a light spray of oil before cooking and season with smoked paprika or sea salt. Sweet potato fries make a delicious, healthier alternative to regular chips.
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10. Onion Rings
Frozen onion rings get the full pub-quality treatment in the air fryer. Look for brands with a thick, beer-batter-style coating for best results if you want that authentic Aussie takeaway feel.
- Temperature: 204°C (400°F)
- Time: 8–10 minutes
- Tip: Flip once halfway through cooking.
Serve with a side of aioli or tomato sauce for maximum flavour impact.
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11. Veggie Burgers
Whether you prefer Beyond, Impossible, or classic veggie patties, the air fryer cooks them perfectly from frozen. You get a nicely charred exterior without the patty falling apart on a grill or getting soggy in a pan.
- Temperature: 191°C (375°F)
- Time: 10–12 minutes
- Tip: Flip once halfway through cooking.
Add fresh burger buns, avocado, lettuce, and your favourite sauces for a quick, healthy meal option. Many Aussie supermarkets stock a range of frozen veggie patties perfect for the air fryer.
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12. Frozen Dumplings and Potstickers
This might be the biggest surprise on the list. Frozen dumplings in the air fryer develop crispy bottoms and tender tops — similar to pan-fried dumplings but with less effort and oil.
- Temperature: 191°C (375°F)
- Time: 10–12 minutes
- Tip: Spray lightly with oil before cooking.
Serve with soy sauce or chilli oil for a quick Asian-inspired snack or light meal. These are a brilliant way to upgrade your frozen food game.
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Comparison Table: Cooking Times & Temperatures for Top Frozen Air Fryer Foods
| Food Item | Temperature (°C) | Time (minutes) | Flip/Shake Notes | Oil Spray Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Fries | 204 | 12–15 | Shake halfway | Optional |
| Chicken Nuggets | 193 | 8–10 | None | Optional |
| Tater Tots | 204 | 12–14 | Shake every 5 minutes | Optional |
| Mozzarella Sticks | 199 | 6–8 | None, check early | No |
| Fish Sticks/Fillets | 204 | 10–12 | Flip once | No |
| Spring/Egg Rolls | 199 | 8–10 | Turn once | Light spray recommended |
| Pizza Rolls | 193 | 6–8 | None | No |
| Chicken Wings | 193 | 20–25 | Flip halfway | No |
| Sweet Potato Fries | 204 | 10–14 | None | Light spray recommended |
| Onion Rings | 204 | 8–10 | Flip once | No |
| Veggie Burgers | 191 | 10–12 | Flip once | No |
| Dumplings/Potstickers | 191 | 10–12 | None | Light spray recommended |
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Air Frying Frozen Foods
- Overcrowding the basket: Trying to cook too many items at once leads to uneven cooking and soggy results. Cook in batches if needed.
- Not shaking or flipping: Hot air doesn’t reach all sides evenly without a little movement halfway through cooking.
- Cooking at too high a temperature: Air fryers run hotter than ovens, so reduce package-recommended temperatures by about 4°C (25°F) for best results.
- Thawing before cooking: Most frozen foods crisp up best when cooked straight from frozen.
- Ignoring oil spray: Even a light mist of oil can transform the texture of items without an existing coating.
- Using the wrong basket setting: Some air fryers have multiple trays or racks; always use the basket or rack that allows good airflow.
- Not preheating when recommended: Although many air fryer recipes don’t require preheating, some frozen foods benefit from a quick 3-minute preheat for even cooking.
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Pro Tips for Air Frying Frozen Foods
- Do not thaw first. Cook from frozen for the best texture and safety.
- Shake or flip halfway through for even browning and crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd. Better to cook in two batches than pile everything in.
- Start with the package temperature and reduce by 25°F (-4°C). Air fryers run hotter than ovens.
- Use a light oil spray on items without a pre-existing coating to enhance crispness.
- Experiment with seasoning blends immediately after cooking to add flavour.
- Use a digital food thermometer for thicker items like chicken wings to ensure they reach 75°C internally.
- Let foods rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking — many frozen snacks crisp up further as they cool.
- Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent flavour carryover and maintain optimal airflow.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I cook frozen foods in my air fryer without any oil?
Yes! Many frozen foods already contain some oil or coating and crisp up nicely without added oil. However, a light spray of oil can improve texture for items like spring rolls or sweet potato fries.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer for frozen foods?
It depends on the food and model. Most frozen foods cook well without preheating, but a quick 3-minute preheat can help crispier results for fries and nuggets.
Can I cook multiple frozen foods together?
It’s best to avoid mixing different foods in one batch unless they have similar cooking times and temperatures. Overcrowding reduces hot air circulation and leads to uneven cooking.
How do I prevent frozen mozzarella sticks from leaking cheese?
Avoid overcrowding and check the sticks a minute or two before the end of cooking. If you see cheese starting to ooze, reduce cooking time slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover air-fried frozen foods?
Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway to restore crispiness without drying out.
Can I use frozen homemade items in my air fryer?
Absolutely! Just adjust cooking times depending on thickness and moisture. Our guide to air fryer cooking times can help you experiment confidently.
Is air frying frozen food healthier than deep frying?
Yes. Air frying uses little to no oil, reducing fat and calorie content while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
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Conclusion
Your air fryer isn’t just a gadget — it’s a game changer for frozen foods. Whether it’s crispy fries, golden chicken nuggets, or crunchy dumplings, these 12 frozen favourites come out consistently perfect in your air fryer. With simple temperature guidelines, a shake or flip midway, and a little oil spray where needed, you can turn your freezer stash into delicious, quick meals any day of the week.
So next time you’re staring at a packet of frozen snacks, don’t reach for the microwave or oven first. Grab your air fryer basket, follow our tips, and enjoy crunchy, tasty results that’ll impress the whole family. For more tips and recipe ideas, check out our air fryer cooking times cheat sheet and our guide to air fryer safety.
Happy air frying!
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*Ready to upgrade your frozen food game? Stock up on your favourite frozen snacks from Kmart, Coles, or Woolworths and get cooking today!*
