Air Fryer Frozen Hot Dogs: How Long To Cook?

If you're in a hurry for a tasty treat, cooking frozen hot dogs in an air fryer is a quick and easy option that can deliver delicious results in less than 15 minutes. With no need to defrost first, you can go straight from freezer to table in just a few simple steps.

How long does it take to cook frozen hot dogs in an air fryer?

Cooking frozen hot dogs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a tasty meal. The average cooking time for frozen hot dogs in an air fryer is around 8 to 10 minutes, but this can vary depending on the size and thickness of the hot dogs, as well as the specific air fryer model being used.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F (200°C). This step is important as it ensures even cooking and helps to achieve the desired crispy texture. Adding a bit of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket can help to avoid excessive smoke.

Step 2: Place the Frozen Hot Dogs in the Air Fryer

Arrange the desired number of frozen hot dogs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You can use a parchment liner for easy cleanup. There is no need to thaw the hot dogs before cooking, and they can be placed directly into the air fryer straight from the freezer.

Step 3: Cook the Hot Dogs

Cook the hot dogs for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. The hot dogs are done when they are browned and crispy on the outside, and plump and juicy on the inside.

Step 4: Prepare Buns and Toppings

While the hot dogs are cooking, you can prepare your buns and toppings. If you want toasted buns, you can place them in the air fryer for a few minutes after cooking the hot dogs.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the hot dogs are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two. Then, place each hot dog in a bun and add your favorite toppings such as ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, or sauerkraut. Serve and enjoy your delicious air-fried hot dogs!

Tips:

• It is recommended to cut a slit down the centre of each hot dog to allow steam to escape and prevent them from exploding.
• For even cooking, ensure the hot dogs are in a single layer and not touching during cooking.
• For easy cleanup, use a silicone air fryer liner or a parchment liner.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, place the leftover hot dogs in the air fryer at 350-360°F (180°C) for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

How to cook frozen hot dogs in an air fryer

What you'll need:

• Frozen hot dogs
• Hot dog buns (optional)
• Toppings of your choice (e.g. ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, sauerkraut)
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)

Instructions:

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390-400°F (200°C). Some recipes suggest adding a bit of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket to avoid excessive smoke.

Remove the desired number of frozen hot dogs from the packaging. If they are stuck together, you can run them under tap water to separate them.

Place the frozen hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You can use a parchment liner for easy cleanup.

Cook the hot dogs for 7-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. This will ensure that they cook evenly.

While the hot dogs are cooking, prepare your buns and toppings. You can toast the buns in the air fryer for a few minutes for added crispiness.

Once the hot dogs are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two.

Place each hot dog in a bun and add your favorite toppings.

Serve and enjoy your delicious, crispy air-fried hot dogs!

Tips:

• You don't need to thaw the hot dogs before cooking them in the air fryer.
• Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the hot dogs, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Hot dogs typically have enough fat content, but if you want a crispier texture, you can lightly brush some cooking oil onto the hot dogs before cooking.
• For an even cook, turn the hot dogs at least once during cooking.
• You can cook frozen hot dogs together with other frozen foods in the air fryer, but make sure not to overcrowd the basket.

What temperature should the air fryer be set to?

When cooking frozen hot dogs in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the appliance to a temperature between 330°F and 400°F.

Some sources suggest preheating the air fryer to 330°F for cooking frozen hot dogs. However, the majority of sources recommend preheating to 350°F. One source suggests preheating to 390°F, and another to 400°F.

It is worth noting that air fryer temperatures may vary depending on the size, make and model of the appliance. Therefore, it is always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or user manual for specific guidelines.

Once preheated, the hot dogs can be placed in the air fryer basket and cooked for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness. For thicker hot dogs, the cooking time may need to be increased by a minute or two.

After cooking, the hot dogs can be served in buns with your favorite toppings.

Can I cook hot dogs that aren't frozen in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook hot dogs that aren't frozen in an air fryer. In fact, some people prefer cooking hot dogs in an air fryer because of the skin, texture, and juiciness that grilling doesn't replicate.

To cook hot dogs in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the hot dogs inside the air fryer in a single layer, making sure they aren't touching, and cook them for 4 minutes. If you want to add a bun, place the hot dogs inside and air fry for another 1-2 minutes.

The cooking time may vary depending on the type of hot dog. For example, skinny hot dogs like Ball Park or Nathan's beef franks will cook in 4 minutes, while thicker hot dogs like Zwiegles or jumbo hot dogs can take about 6 to 8 minutes.

If you prefer your hot dogs less browned, you can cook them at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes.

How to store and reheat frozen hot dogs cooked in an air fryer

To store hot dogs cooked in an air fryer, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic wrap. They will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

To reheat frozen hot dogs that were cooked in an air fryer, place them in the air fryer at 350°F to 360°F (180°C) for 2 to 5 minutes, or until heated through.

Some tips to keep in mind:

• Do not add toppings until you are ready to serve, or they will become soggy.
• Always reheat cooked hot dogs until they are heated through to avoid foodborne illnesses.
• Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F; cooked hot dogs should be discarded if left for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions