Are you a fan of hot pockets but struggle to cook them perfectly in a conventional oven? Do you want to try a healthier cooking method to prepare your favorite snack? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook hot pockets in an air fryer, a kitchen appliance that uses hot air to fry food instead of oil.

Air fryers are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to cook food faster and with less oil than traditional fryers. They are also easy to use and provide consistent results. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to cook hot pockets in an air fryer in no time!

Preparing the Hot Pockets

Before cooking your hot pockets in an air fryer, you need to prepare them properly. Here’s what you need to do:

Choosing the Right Flavor

Hot pockets come in various flavors, such as pepperoni pizza, ham and cheese, and three-cheese pizza. Choose the flavor you prefer and make sure to check the expiration date before purchasing them.

Unpacking the Hot Pockets

Take the hot pockets out of the box and remove any plastic wrapping or cardboard sleeves.

Pricking the Hot Pockets

To prevent the hot pockets from bursting in the air fryer, use a fork to prick several holes on the top and bottom of each pocket. This will allow the steam to escape during cooking and prevent the filling from leaking out.

Now that your hot pockets are ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: setting up the air fryer.

Setting up the Air Fryer

To cook your hot pockets in an air fryer, you need to set it up properly. Follow these steps:

Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. This will ensure that the hot pockets cook evenly and have a crispy texture.

Placing the Hot Pockets in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the hot pockets in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between them. This will allow the hot air to circulate around the pockets and cook them thoroughly.

Adjusting the Temperature and Time

Set the temperature to 400°F and the cooking time to 12-14 minutes, depending on the size of your hot pockets. It’s essential to flip the hot pockets halfway through cooking to ensure that they cook evenly on both sides.

Now that the air fryer is set up, it’s time to move on to the next section and cook the hot pockets.

Cooking the Hot Pockets

With the hot pockets in the air fryer basket, it’s time to start cooking them. Follow these steps:

Starting the Air Fryer

Press the start button on your air fryer to begin cooking the hot pockets. Make sure to set a timer to avoid overcooking or burning them.

Flipping the Hot Pockets Halfway Through Cooking

After 6-7 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the hot pockets over using tongs or a spatula. This will ensure that both sides cook evenly and have a crispy texture.

Checking the Hot Pockets for Doneness

After the cooking time is up, remove the hot pockets from the air fryer and check if they’re cooked thoroughly. The crust should be golden brown and crispy, and the filling should be hot and melted. If the hot pockets need more time, you can put them back in the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serving the Hot Pockets

Once the hot pockets are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them. Follow these steps:

Removing the Hot Pockets from the Air Fryer

Carefully remove the hot pockets from the air fryer basket using tongs or a spatula. Be careful as they will be hot!

Letting the Hot Pockets Cool Down

Allow the hot pockets to cool down for a few minutes before serving them. This will prevent you from burning your mouth and allow the filling to set.

Serving the Hot Pockets with Your Preferred Dip or Sauce

Serve the hot pockets with your favorite dip or sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or salsa. This will enhance the flavor of the hot pockets and make them even more delicious.

Conclusion

Cooking hot pockets in an air fryer is an easy and convenient way to enjoy your favorite snack. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to cook hot pockets to perfection every time. With the air fryer’s ability to cook food faster and with less oil, you can indulge in hot pockets without feeling guilty. So, go ahead and try our recipe today and enjoy a crispy and delicious snack that’s ready in minutes!