Are you a fan of Hot Pockets, but tired of the soggy texture that comes from cooking them in the microwave? Look no further than your air fryer! With the help of this versatile kitchen gadget, you can achieve a crispy crust and perfectly cooked filling in no time. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to cook Hot Pockets in an air fryer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Preparing Hot Pocket for Air Frying

Before you start cooking your Hot Pocket, there are a few preparation steps you’ll need to take. First, remove the Hot Pocket from its packaging and place it on a plate. Use a fork to prick several holes in the top of the Hot Pocket. This will allow steam to escape as it cooks, preventing it from getting too soggy.

Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This temperature is ideal for cooking Hot Pockets, as it will give you a crispy crust without overcooking the filling. Preheating your air fryer is essential to ensure even cooking and prevent any hot or cold spots in the finished product. Once your air fryer is preheated, you’re ready to start cooking your Hot Pocket.

Air Frying Hot Pocket

Now that your Hot Pocket is prepped and your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to get cooking! Place the Hot Pocket in the air fryer basket, making sure it is not touching the sides or the heating element. Set the temperature to 400°F and the cooking time to 12-14 minutes.

It’s important to flip the Hot Pocket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on both sides. You can do this by carefully removing the basket from the air fryer and flipping the Hot Pocket with tongs or a spatula. Be sure to place it back in the basket with the seam side down to prevent any filling from leaking out.

As the Hot Pocket cooks, you’ll notice the crust turning a golden brown color. This is a good indication that it’s nearly done, but you’ll want to check the temperature of the filling to ensure it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the filling has reached a temperature of 165°F. If it hasn’t, simply continue cooking for an additional minute or two.

Cooking Hot Pockets in an air fryer is quick and easy, and the result is a delicious and crispy meal that’s sure to satisfy. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked Hot Pockets every time.

Air Frying Hot Pocket

Once you’ve prepped your Hot Pocket and air fryer, it’s time to start cooking! Begin by placing the Hot Pocket in the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd the basket. It’s best to cook only one Hot Pocket at a time to ensure even cooking.

Set the temperature to 400°F and the cooking time to 12-14 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the type of air fryer you have, so be sure to consult your manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidelines.

Halfway through cooking, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer and flip the Hot Pocket over. This will help to ensure even browning on both sides. You can use tongs or a spatula to flip the Hot Pocket, taking care not to break the crust.

Once the cooking time is up, remove the Hot Pocket from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Be sure to use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to handle the Hot Pocket, as it will be very hot.

Checking Hot Pocket for Doneness

To ensure that your Hot Pocket is fully cooked, there are a few things you can look for. First, check the crust to make sure it’s a golden brown color. This is a good indication that it’s cooked through and crispy.

Next, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the filling. The filling should reach a temperature of 165°F to be considered safe to eat. Simply insert the thermometer into the filling through one of the holes in the top of the Hot Pocket.

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check the doneness of the filling by cutting the Hot Pocket open with a knife. The filling should be hot and steamy, with no cold spots or uncooked areas.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your Hot Pockets are perfectly cooked every time. With a crispy crust and hot, delicious filling, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your household.