There’s something truly satisfying about the sound of crispy potstickers being pulled from the air fryer, their golden-brown surfaces gleaming with promise. I first experimented with these delightful dumplings during a cozy night in, looking for a healthy alternative to our usual takeout routine. The result? Irresistibly crunchy air fryer potstickers that deliver on flavor without the guilt of deep-frying!
In just 15 minutes, you’ll find yourself savoring these savory bites, packed with tender fillings that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving some comfort food, these potstickers are versatile enough to serve as an elegant appetizer or a quick lunch. Trust me, once you whip up a batch of these tasty morsels, you’ll be hooked. So, let’s get cooking and transform your kitchen into a dumpling haven!
Why love Air Fryer Potstickers?
Quick preparation: You’ll have these crispy delights ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for a last-minute snack or meal on busy days.
Healthier option: Enjoy the delightful crunch of potstickers without the guilt associated with deep-frying, making them a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Flavor-packed fillings: Customize your potstickers to your heart’s content with different proteins or veggies, ensuring everyone at the table finds something they love.
Versatile dining: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or a main dish—these dumplings fit any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a cozy night in, these air fryer potstickers are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Air Fryer Potstickers Ingredients
For the Dumplings
• Dumpling Wrappers – Use store-bought for ease or make your own for a personal touch to your meal.
• Ground Pork/Chicken/Shiitake Mushrooms – Choose these for a savory filling; tofu or mixed vegetables work beautifully for a vegetarian alternative.
• Cabbage – Fresh cabbage adds moisture and crunch; frozen can also suffice when freshness isn’t available.
• Scallions – These bring a fresh flavor; skip if they’re not on hand.
For the Seasoning
• Soy Sauce – This adds delicious umami richness; tamari is a perfect gluten-free substitute.
• Sesame Oil – It offers a lovely aromatic depth; feel free to replace it with olive oil, but the flavor will shift slightly.
• Chili Oil – Perfect for adding heat; adjust the amount to match your spice preference, or leave it out for a milder taste.
These Air Fryer Potstickers will become a beloved recipe in your home!
How to Make Air Fryer Potstickers
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Prepare Filling: Cook the ground protein or shiitake mushrooms in a skillet with cabbage, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until everything is tender and flavorful, then let it cool slightly.
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Assemble Dumplings: Place a generous spoonful of filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Fold the wrapper in half and press the edges together with a bit of water to seal them tightly.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes while you finish assembling your potstickers.
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Cook Potstickers: Arrange the sealed dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not crowded. Lightly spray with oil and cook for 8-10 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces for that extra punch of flavor!
Optional: Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Air Fryer Potstickers Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists and swaps to make this recipe uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it dairy-free while enhancing the umami flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the filling for an extra fiery bite. Who doesn’t love a little heat?
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with finely chopped mushrooms and diced firm tofu for a satisfying vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling for a refreshing flavor boost. This adds a lovely aroma and vibrancy to each bite.
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Savory Greens: Mix in some sautéed spinach or kale to the filling for added nutrition and a burst of color. It’s a wholesome way to elevate your potstickers!
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Nutty Flavor: Toasted sesame seeds can be added to the filling to give it an extra nutty crunch that complements the texture beautifully.
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Texture Twist: For a fun crunch, try adding water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the mixture. They provide a delightful bite that contrasts with the softness of the meat.
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Exotic Fusion: Experiment with fillings like kimchi or curry-spiced veggies for a fusion twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds. It’s an adventurous and flavorful journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Potstickers are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; just cook and cool the ground protein or mushrooms, then mix in the cabbage, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the potstickers and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your air fryer and cook from chilled, adding a couple of extra minutes if they’re not fully thawed. This way, you’ll achieve the same irresistible crispiness without compromising quality!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Potstickers?
Creating the perfect meal means finding the right companions for those delightful dumplings.
- Soy Dipping Sauce: A classic choice to enhance the savory flavor, this sauce complements the potstickers beautifully.
- Fresh Asian Salad: Crisp veggies with a light dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy potstickers. It’s a perfect way to add some crunch!
- Steamed Broccoli: Drizzled with a touch of sesame oil, this healthy side adds nutrition while balancing the dish’s richness.
- Spicy Sriracha: Add a kick to your meal! This versatile sauce gives a zesty edge that might surprise your taste buds.
- Coconut Rice: Rich and creamy coconut rice pairs wonderfully, bringing a touch of tropical sweetness to each bite. It’s a splendid fusion!
- Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, this traditional soup harmonizes with the dumplings for a cozy meal experience on a chilly evening.
- Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who crave heat, a drizzle of chili oil adds an indulgent layer of flavor.
- Peanut Sauce: Creamy and nutty, this sauce makes an excellent dip that adds richness to the potstickers.
- Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and light, this beverage offers a subtle earthy flavor that cleanses the palate between bites.
- Mini Cheesecakes: To finish your meal on a sweet note, these bite-sized desserts provide a delightful contrast to the savory potstickers.
Embrace these delightful pairings for a beautifully balanced meal that tantalizes the taste buds!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Potstickers
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Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange potstickers in a single layer to ensure even cooking and avoid sogginess.
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Seal Tightly: Make sure the edges of the dumpling wrappers are well-sealed to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
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Use Non-Stick Spray: Lightly spraying the basket and potstickers helps achieve that golden, crispy texture that makes air fryer potstickers irresistible.
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Frozen Cook Time: If using frozen potstickers, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different proteins or vegetables to create your version of air fryer potstickers that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Potstickers
Fridge: Store leftover air fryer potstickers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a crispy texture.
Freezer: Uncooked potstickers can be frozen; layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be cooked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked potstickers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Room Temperature: Avoid keeping potstickers at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Air Fryer Potstickers Recipe FAQs
What type of dumpling wrappers should I use?
I recommend using store-bought dumpling wrappers for convenience; they are easy to find in most grocery stores. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make your own—just combine flour and water to form a dough, then roll it thin. Homemade wrappers provide a delicious personal touch!
How long can I store leftover potstickers?
Leftover air fryer potstickers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until they’re crispy and heated through.
Can I freeze uncooked potstickers?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked air fryer potstickers, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be cooked directly from frozen—just add 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated all the way through.
What should I do if my potstickers are sticking to the air fryer basket?
To prevent sticking, make sure to lightly spray both the basket and the potstickers with non-stick cooking spray before cooking. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the basket; if they are too close together, they are more likely to stick!
Can I make air fryer potstickers vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground meat with shiitake mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of your favorite vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. Just ensure to season your vegetarian filling well to keep all that delicious flavor intact.
How can I ensure my potstickers are sealed properly?
To seal your dumpling wrappers tightly, place a tablespoon of filling in the center, wet the edges with water, then fold and press firmly to remove any air bubbles. Make sure the edges are well-sealed to prevent any leakage during cooking.
Crispy Air Fryer Potstickers in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the ground protein or shiitake mushrooms in a skillet with cabbage, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil until tender, then let cool.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper, fold it in half, and seal the edges with water.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
- Arrange the sealed dumplings in the air fryer basket, spray with oil, and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve warm with dipping sauces.