Perfectly Crispy Frozen Burritos in the Air Fryer: Quick and Easy Guide
You’ll find air frying frozen burritos a game-changer for a quick and tasty meal.
No need to thaw—just preheat your air fryer to 370°F (about 188°C), place the burritos in the basket, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes.
Flip halfway around 6 to 7 minutes for an evenly crisped tortilla and thoroughly heated filling. This method gives you a golden, crispy outside and warm, delicious inside every time.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or whipping up a simple dinner, air frying cuts down on messy microwaves and soggy wraps.
A light spray of oil before cooking can add an extra crunch if you like, but it’s totally optional.
Cooking Summary at a Glance
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 minute | 12–15 minutes | 13–16 minutes | Main / Snack | Mexican / American | 1–2 |
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | 1 Serving | 2 Servings | 4 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen burritos | 1 piece | 2 pieces | 4 pieces | Frozen chimichangas, wraps |
| Cooking oil spray (optional) | Light spray | Light spray | Light spray | Olive oil spray, avocado oil spray |
Cooking Tools Needed
| Tool | Use | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Air fryer (basket-style preferred) | Cooking frozen burritos evenly | Oven-style air fryer |
| Tongs | For flipping halfway | Spatula |
| Oil spray or brush | Optional to add crispiness | Paper towel with oil |
How Long to Cook Frozen Burritos in Air Fryer?
Cooking times depend on air fryer style, burrito size, and filling moisture:
- Basket-style air fryer:
- Cook at 370°F for 12–15 minutes
- Flip halfway at 6–7 minutes for even crispiness
- Oven-style air fryer:
- Cook at 380°F for 14–16 minutes
- Rotate burritos once halfway through
- Small or compact air fryer:
- Use 360°F and cook for 11–13 minutes
- Keep a close eye on crispness, especially if burritos are thin
- Thicker burritos or extra fillings may require an additional 2 minutes
Light oil spraying helps with browning but is optional depending on your preference.
How to Make Frozen Burritos in Air Fryer – Step-by-Step
Lets move!
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps create an even cooking environment and ensures your burritos crisp nicely.
Step 2: Arrange Burritos in the Basket
Place the frozen burritos in a single layer with space between them. Avoid overlapping to ensure hot air circulates well.
Step 3: Optional Oil Spray
Spray a light coating of cooking oil on the burritos for a crisper tortilla. This step is optional but recommended if you prefer a crunchy outer layer.
Step 4: Start Cooking and Flip Halfway
Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, then use tongs to flip each burrito. Return to the air fryer and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and heated through.
Step 5: Check and Rest
Check the internal temperature—it should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Let the burritos rest for 2 minutes before serving; this lets the filling settle and prevents burns.
Serving and Decoration Tips
- Slice burritos in half diagonally to reveal the filling
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or hot sauce on the side
- Garnish plates with fresh cilantro or lime wedges
- Add a side of Mexican rice or beans for a fuller meal
Variations to Try
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top during the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra gooeyness
- Use vegetarian or vegan frozen burritos to suit dietary preferences
- Pair with a fresh pico de gallo salsa or avocado crema
- For spice lovers, drizzle with chipotle mayo or jalapeño sauce
Storing Tips
- ✅ Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- ✅ Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to regain crispness
- ✅ Freeze cooked burritos wrapped well for up to 2 months
- ❌ Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep the tortilla crispy
- ✅ Let burritos cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess
Extra Tips for Best Air Fryer Results
- ✅ Always preheat your air fryer for best crisping
- ✅ Don’t overcrowd the basket — leave space for hot air circulation
- ✅ Flip halfway to ensure even cooking and browning
- ✅ Use a light oil spray if you want a crunchier outside
- ✅ Check temperature with a meat thermometer for safety
Common Mistakes, Solutions & Prevention
| Mistake | Cause | Solution | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soggy tortilla | No flipping or overcrowding | Flip halfway, space burritos | Don’t stack burritos in basket |
| Cold filling inside | Insufficient cook time | Cook longer, check temp | Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F |
| Overly browned outside | Temperature too high | Lower temperature or reduce cook time | Use recommended temps and watch closely |
Helpful FAQs
Q1: Can I air fry homemade burritos from frozen using the same method?
A1: Yes. Homemade frozen burritos cook similarly but may require slightly longer cooking times depending on size and filling.
Q2: Can I reheat refrigerated leftover burritos in the air fryer?
A2: Absolutely. Reheat at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to regain crispness.
Q3: Is it necessary to spray oil on the burritos?
A3: No, it’s optional. Oil spray helps create a crispier tortilla but isn’t required.
Q4: Can I cook multiple burritos at once?
A4: Yes, but avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if needed for even results.
Let’s Wrap It Up and Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to cook frozen burritos in the air fryer that come out crispy, hot, and delicious every time.
Give it a try, enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
