Air-Fryer Burritos: Perfect Timing For A Quick Bite

Air fryers are a convenient way to prepare burritos, allowing you to obtain a warm and crispy burrito in just 5-15 minutes. The cooking time depends on the size of the burrito and the desired crispiness level. For larger burritos, you may need to add extra cooking time, while smaller burritos may require less time. Air fryers are also perfect for reheating or cooking frozen burritos, although they may need a bit more time in the air fryer.

Homemade vs frozen

Whether you're making homemade or frozen burritos, the air fryer is a great way to achieve that sought-after crispy, golden brown exterior while keeping the inside hot and gooey. But what's the best method for cooking burritos in the air fryer, and how does it differ for homemade and frozen varieties? Let's take a closer look.

Cooking Frozen Burritos in the Air Fryer

When it comes to cooking frozen burritos in the air fryer, the general consensus is that it's a quick, convenient, and delicious option. Many people prefer this method over microwaving or oven baking, which can result in uneven cooking and sogginess.

Here's a step-by-step guide to cooking frozen burritos in the air fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F to 400°F for a few minutes.
• Remove the burritos from their packaging and place them in the air fryer basket, seam-side up to prevent leakage. Ensure they are in a single layer and not touching.
• Cook for 12 to 15 minutes. For smaller burritos, this may be sufficient, while larger burritos may need an additional 3-8 minutes.
• Remove the burritos from the air fryer and let them stand for a minute or two before handling or cutting.

Tips for Cooking Frozen Burritos:

• If you're in a hurry, you can partially cook the burrito in the microwave (about 1 minute) and then finish it off in the air fryer for a crispier result.
• To prevent sticking, you can spray a tiny bit of pure cooking oil on the basket. Avoid using cooking sprays like PAM, as they can damage your air fryer.
• Always check your burritos at the 10-minute mark, as cooking times may vary depending on the size and number of burritos and the model of your air fryer.
• For crispier burritos, spray the tops with cooking oil before placing them in the air fryer.

Cooking Homemade Burritos in the Air Fryer

Now, let's turn our attention to homemade burritos. While there are various recipes and filling options available, the cooking process in the air fryer is relatively similar. Here's a general guide:

• Prepare your burrito filling of choice and assemble your burritos. A simple option includes rice, corn, beans, salsa, lime juice, and shredded cheese.
• Line your air fryer basket with foil or parchment paper, lightly oiled, to prevent sticking.
• Place one or two burritos in the basket, seam-side down.
• Drizzle taco sauce and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each burrito.
• Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.

Tips for Cooking Homemade Burritos:

For breakfast burritos, you can follow a similar recipe, adding ingredients like eggs and bacon.

Whether you're cooking homemade or frozen burritos, the air fryer is a convenient and effective method. Frozen burritos offer a quick and easy option, while homemade burritos allow for customization and a fresh, made-from-scratch taste. By following the above guidelines, you can achieve delicious, crispy burritos with that perfect balance of textures every time.

Customising your burrito

The burrito is a versatile dish that can be customised to suit your taste preferences and dietary requirements. Here are some tips and ideas for customising your burrito:

Choose Your Tortilla

The type of tortilla you use will affect the overall taste and texture of your burrito. You can choose between flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference. If you're gluten-free, corn tortillas are a good option. You can also lightly dampen the tortillas with water or wrap them in foil before placing them in the air fryer to prevent them from getting too crispy.

Select Your Protein

Burritos are typically filled with a protein source. You can choose from various options, such as chicken, beef, or beans. If you're vegetarian or vegan, beans are an excellent choice. You can also experiment with other plant-based proteins like tofu or seitan.

Veggie Options

Finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and jalapenos can add texture and flavour to your burrito. You can also include corn, which pairs well with beans and rice. If you're a fan of spicy food, include some diced jalapenos or other chilli peppers.

Cheese Please!

Cheese adds a creamy texture and savoury flavour to your burrito. You can choose from various types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican-style blend. If you're vegan, there are also plant-based cheese alternatives available.

Spice it Up

Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to enhance the flavour of your burrito. Some popular options include chilli powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. You can also add hot sauce or salsa to your burrito for an extra kick.

Don't Forget the Sides

Burritos go well with a variety of sides and toppings. You can serve them with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a squeeze of lime juice. If you're making breakfast burritos, you might want to include some potatoes or hash browns on the side.

Get Creative with Fillings

In addition to the standard burrito fillings, you can get creative and add some unique ingredients. For example, you could include rice, hummus, or cooked rice. Just be careful not to overfill your burrito, as it may become difficult to roll and cook evenly.

Remember, the beauty of the burrito is that you can customise it to your liking. Experiment with different ingredients and combinations to find your perfect burrito!

Air fryer temperature and timing

The air fryer is a convenient and healthy way to prepare burritos, with cooking times ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispiness and the number of burritos being cooked.

When cooking burritos in an air fryer, it is important to first preheat the appliance to the desired temperature, which typically ranges from 340°F to 400°F (171°C to 204°C). Preheating ensures that the burritos cook evenly and helps to achieve the desired level of crispiness.

To get a nice crispy texture on the outside of the burritos, it is recommended to line the air fryer basket with foil and lightly oil the foil with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Alternatively, using parchment paper liners designed for air fryer baskets can also help achieve the same results.

For homemade burritos, a cooking time of 8 to 10 minutes at 350°F (177°C) is recommended. This allows the cheese to melt completely and the tortilla shell to crisp up without becoming crumbly.

When cooking frozen burritos in an air fryer, the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the burritos. For smaller burritos, the cooking time can be decreased to 7 minutes, while for larger burritos, it may be necessary to add a little extra cooking time. The ideal temperature for cooking frozen burritos is 400°F (204°C), and the total cooking time is typically around 12 to 15 minutes, or until the interior of the burrito reaches a temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

It is important to note that different air fryer brands and models may require slight adjustments to the cooking time and temperature. Therefore, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the burritos while they are cooking to prevent overcooking or burning.

How to wrap a burrito

A large flour tortilla is your best bet when it comes to wrapping a burrito. That's because it's the most stretchy option, meaning you can load it up with ingredients and it'll expand to accommodate them without cracking and breaking.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to wrap a burrito:

• Warm the flour tortilla to help it stretch. You can do this by kissing each side of the tortilla on the surface of a hot pan for 30 seconds. Alternatively, wrap a stack in a damp paper towel and steam them quickly in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
• Place the filling in the centre of the tortilla or just below the centre. Avoid overstuffing the burrito, which will cause it to burst. Leave the ends, top and bottom uncovered.
• Fold the sides inwards, over the filling. Fold 1 to 2 inches inwards. This will prevent the filling from falling out of the bottom of your burrito as you eat it.
• Now fold the bottom over so it completely covers the filling.
• Roll the burrito over the filling, tucking as you roll. Starting with the bottom flap that's covering the filling, roll the burrito, tucking the flap firmly inwards as you go to secure all your tasty burrito fillings.
• Continue rolling until your burrito is seam side down and serve.

If you want to seal your burrito, you can warm it in a toaster oven for a few minutes, or place the burrito seam-side down in a hot skillet on the stove and cook until it's browned and crisp. Flip and let the second side brown before digging in.

What to serve with your burrito

Burritos are a versatile meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They can be paired with a variety of side dishes to enhance your dining experience and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas on what to serve with your burrito:

Complementary Flavours

Choose side dishes that complement the flavours of your burrito. For example, if your burrito is spicy, consider serving it with cooling sides like guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salsa to balance the heat. Other salsa options include pineapple salsa, mango habanero salsa, and roasted chilli corn salsa. You can also try a spicy mango guacamole to add a touch of sweetness to your meal.

Texture

Incorporate side dishes with different textures to add variety to your meal. Crunchy tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa can provide a satisfying contrast to the soft and savoury burrito. You can make your own homemade tortilla chips or air fryer tortilla chips for a healthier option.

Colourful Presentation

Opt for side dishes that add colour to your plate, making the meal more visually appealing. For a fresh summer feel, use pineapples or mangoes in your salsa or try a mango cucumber salad. You could also make a colourful avocado tomato salad.

Soups

Soups can be a great accompaniment to burritos. Try a black bean soup, a vegan tortilla soup, or a spicy pinto bean soup.

Salads

Salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty burrito. A Mexican coleslaw salad or a Mexican street corn salad would be excellent choices. You could also make a creamy vegan avocado salad or a palmito ceviche for something different.

Rice

Rice is a popular side dish for burritos and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Try cilantro lime rice, cilantro lime brown rice, or, for a low-carb option, cilantro lime cauliflower rice.

Beans

Beans are a classic side dish for burritos. You can make Mexican black beans or vegan refried beans to add some extra protein to your meal.

With so many options to choose from, you can easily create a delicious and well-rounded meal to enjoy with your burrito.

Frequently asked questions