How Long to Cook Pizza Rolls in Air Fryer

Air fryer pizza rolls are a game-changer for anyone craving a quick, crispy, and delicious snack. Unlike the microwave, which can leave them soggy, or the oven, which takes forever to preheat, an air fryer delivers perfectly golden pizza rolls in just minutes. If you’ve been wondering how long to cook pizza rolls in an air fryer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—times, temperatures, tips, and more—to get that ideal crispy exterior and melty, cheesy interior every time.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Pizza Rolls?

Air fryers are perfect for cooking frozen pizza rolls because they use hot air circulation to create a crispy texture without the need for excess oil. The result is a snack that tastes like it was deep-fried but with a fraction of the fat and cleanup. Whether you’re making Totino’s, Annie’s, or another brand, the air fryer ensures even cooking and a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s faster than an oven and far better than a microwave for texture.

How Long to Cook Frozen Pizza Rolls in an Air Fryer

The cooking time for frozen pizza rolls in an air fryer typically ranges from 5 to 8 minutes, depending on your air fryer model, the brand of pizza rolls, and how crispy you like them. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown for perfect results:

• Temperature: Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). This is the sweet spot for most brands, including Totino’s, as it cooks the rolls evenly without burning them. Some sources, like The Big Man’s World, suggest 400°F for slightly faster cooking, but 380°F is a safer bet to avoid bursting.
• Time: Cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Start checking at the 5-minute mark to ensure they don’t overcook or explode. Shake the basket or flip the rolls halfway through to promote even browning.
• Quantity: Aim for 10-20 pizza rolls per batch, arranged in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so don’t stack them.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to cook frozen pizza rolls in your air fryer for the best results:

1. Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheating isn’t always necessary, but if your air fryer model recommends it, set it to 380°F for 2-3 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking.
2. Arrange the Pizza Rolls: Place the frozen pizza rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. No oil is needed, as most pizza rolls are pre-cooked and won’t stick. If you’re worried about sticking, lightly brush the basket with olive oil or use perforated parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Cook: Set the air fryer to 380°F and cook for 6-8 minutes. At the 3-4 minute mark, shake the basket or use tongs to flip the rolls for even crisping.
4. Check for Doneness: The rolls are done when they’re golden brown and crispy. If the filling starts to ooze out, remove them immediately to avoid a mess.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the pizza rolls cool for 1-2 minutes before eating—they’re piping hot inside! Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Getting the timing just right can depend on a few factors, so here are some pro tips to ensure success:

• Don’t Overcrowd: As noted by Paint The Kitchen Red, stacking pizza rolls can prevent hot air from circulating, leading to uneven cooking. Stick to a single layer, even if it means cooking in batches.
• Check Your Air Fryer Model: Different air fryers cook at slightly different rates. For example, a Ninja Foodi might cook faster than a Cosori. Start with 6 minutes and adjust as needed.
• Avoid Explosions: Overcooking can cause the filling to burst out. If you notice any rolls starting to split, take them out early.
• Enhance the Flavor: For a gourmet twist, try tossing the cooked rolls in a garlic butter and Parmesan mixture, as suggested by Chenée Today. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, mix in minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, then toss with the rolls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.

Homemade vs. Frozen Pizza Rolls

While frozen pizza rolls are convenient, you can also make homemade versions for a fresher taste. Homemade pizza rolls often use wonton wrappers or pizza dough and can be customized with your favorite fillings. They typically take 7-12 minutes at 360-380°F, depending on the recipe. The process is similar: arrange in a single layer, brush with olive oil for extra crispiness, and flip halfway through. Homemade rolls may need a minute or two longer than frozen ones due to their thickness.

Reheating and Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. You can also freeze homemade pizza rolls before cooking; just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook frozen homemade rolls at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, no thawing needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cooking at Too High a Temperature: Cranking the heat above 400°F can cause the rolls to burst or burn. Stick to 380-390°F for the best results.
• Skipping the Flip: Flipping or shaking the basket ensures all sides get crispy. If you skip this step, the bottoms might stay soft.
• Not Cooling Before Eating: The filling can be scalding hot right out of the air fryer. Give them a minute to cool to avoid burns.

Conclusion

Cooking pizza rolls in an air fryer is the ultimate hack for a quick, crispy snack that’s ready in under 10 minutes. By sticking to 380°F for 6-8 minutes, arranging them in a single layer, and flipping halfway through, you’ll get perfect results every time. Whether you’re using store-bought Totino’s or whipping up a homemade batch, the air fryer makes pizza rolls a hassle-free treat for game days, after-school snacks, or late-night cravings. Experiment with dipping sauces or toppings to make them your own, and enjoy the crunch!