Air Fryer Hack: Warming Hot Pockets

Hot Pockets are a popular snack, but can you use an air fryer to heat them up? The answer is yes! Air fryers are a great way to get that crispy crust on your Hot Pocket without having to use a microwave or oven. Not only is it faster, but it also gives you a golden brown crust with a gooey, hot filling.

To cook your Hot Pocket in an air fryer, simply preheat your air fryer to around 350-360°F, place your Hot Pocket inside without the crisper sleeve, and air fry for 11-13 minutes. If you're short on time, you can even combine the air fryer and microwave for a total cooking time of just 5 minutes!

So, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy your Hot Pockets with a crispy crust, the air fryer is definitely the way to go!

Air fryer temperature and timing

To cook Hot Pockets in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes. You can also preheat to 360°F (if your air fryer allows) or even 400°F if you're cooking the Big & Bold variety. Place the Hot Pockets in the fryer without the crisper sleeve and cook for 10-13 minutes. If you're cooking more than one, they should be placed in a single layer to allow for even cooking and extra crispiness.

If you're short on time, you can cook the Hot Pocket in the microwave for 60 seconds, then finish it off in the air fryer at its highest setting for 3-4 minutes.

Once cooked, remove the Hot Pockets from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. They will still be very hot on the inside.

To reheat leftover Hot Pockets, air fry at 350°F or 360°F for about 5 minutes.

How to prepare the basket

To prepare the basket of your air fryer for cooking, you should first assemble your air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This includes placing the multi-level basket inside the air fryer and adjusting it according to your model.

Next, you should preheat your air fryer. This is not always necessary, but it can promote better cooking results. Preheat your air fryer for around 3-5 minutes at the desired cooking temperature.

Once preheated, you can prepare the basket by lightly coating it with olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line the basket with parchment paper, cut to size. However, it is important to note that you should never preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside, as it can get sucked into the heating element.

When preparing the basket, it is also crucial to avoid overcrowding. Each item should have space for air circulation to achieve a crispy texture. This will also allow for even cooking.

Cooking the hot pockets

Ingredients and Equipment

To cook hot pockets in an air fryer, you will need the following:

• An air fryer
• Frozen hot pockets (any flavour)
• Non-stick cooking spray, olive oil, or parchment paper
• Aluminum foil (optional, and check your user manual first)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 360°F. This should take around 3-5 minutes.
• Prepare the basket. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper cut to size.
• Place the frozen hot pockets in the basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even air circulation.
• Air fry the hot pockets for 10-15 minutes, or until they achieve a crispy golden crust. There is no need to flip them over halfway through.
• Remove the hot pockets from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. They will be very hot on the inside.

Tips

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Keep the hot pockets in a single layer with space around them for even cooking.
• Check your equipment. Follow your manufacturer's guidelines concerning the use of parchment paper and aluminum foil.
• Put safety first. If using parchment paper, never preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside, as it can get sucked into the heating element.
• If you're short on time, cook the hot pockets in the microwave for 60 seconds, then cook them in the air fryer at its highest setting for 3-4 minutes.
• Let the hot pockets sit for around 5 minutes before eating. They will still be very hot on the inside.
• Add some extra flavour by dipping them in ranch, Italian dressing with mustard, pizza sauce, or jalapeno cheese sauce.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover hot pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Serving suggestions

Hot Pockets are a versatile meal or snack option that can be served in a variety of ways to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to elevate your Hot Pocket experience:

Dipping Sauces

Enhance your Hot Pocket experience by pairing it with a dipping sauce. The possibilities are endless, but some popular options include:

• Ranch dressing
• Italian dressing with mustard
• Pizza sauce
• Jalapeno cheese sauce
• Ketchup (especially for ham and cheese Hot Pockets)
• Cheese sauce
• Marinara sauce
• Ranch or blue cheese

Side Dishes

While Hot Pockets can be a satisfying meal on their own, you can also serve them with side dishes to create a more substantial and balanced meal. Try pairing your Hot Pocket with:

• A side salad
• Chips
• Waffle fries
• Fruit

Toppings and Seasonings

Get creative and experiment with different toppings and seasonings to add extra flavour and texture to your Hot Pockets. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Sprinkle some extra cheese on top for a gooey finish.
• Add herbs or spices to the crust before air frying.
• Drizzle with olive oil for a shiny, appealing finish.
• Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds for a crunchy texture.
• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or garlic powder for some heat and extra flavour.
• Sprinkle with parmesan cheese for a classic Italian touch.

Customise Your Own Hot Pockets

Making your own homemade Hot Pockets gives you the freedom to customise the flavours and ingredients to your liking. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Use different types of dough such as pizza dough, puff pastry, crescent roll dough, or homemade pizza dough to find your preferred texture and flavour.
• Experiment with various fillings such as pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara sauce, ham, cheddar cheese, pizza sauce, green onions, or any of your favourite pizza toppings.
• Don't be afraid to get creative and add your unique twist to your Hot Pockets.

Remember, the beauty of Hot Pockets is their versatility, so feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions to create your perfect meal or snack. Enjoy!

Storing leftovers

To reheat Hot Pockets in an air fryer, set the fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook for about 5 minutes.

You can also reheat leftover fries in an air fryer. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 350°F/175°C for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are crispy and reach a safe internal temperature.

For reheating meat, let the cut of meat sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then preheat the air fryer to 400°F/204°C. Place the meat inside the air fryer basket and cook for 3 minutes at 370°F/187°C. Check the internal temperature—you want it to reach 165°F or 73.8°C. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, if needed.

You can also revive stale food in the air fryer. For example, you can make stale chips tasty and crispy again by layering them in the air fryer basket and cooking for 1-2 minutes at 380°F/190°C.

Frequently asked questions