Burritos are one of the most satisfying meals—warm, filling, and packed with flavor. But what happens when you have leftovers? If you’ve ever microwaved a burrito, you know it can turn into a soggy mess. The oven takes too long, and the stovetop can be a hassle. So, what’s the best way to bring back that crispy goodness? The air fryer!
Reheating a burrito in an air fryer ensures a crispy outer shell while keeping the inside warm and flavorful. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to do it step by step.
Why Use an Air Fryer to Reheat a Burrito?
There are plenty of ways to reheat a burrito, but the air fryer has some unbeatable advantages:
- Crispy, not soggy – Unlike the microwave, the air fryer circulates hot air, giving the tortilla a perfect crunch.
- Faster than the oven – No need to preheat for ages. The air fryer gets the job done in minutes.
- Even heating – Say goodbye to cold spots in the center. The air fryer warms the burrito evenly inside and out.
Now that you know why it’s the best method, let’s dive into the process!
How to Reheat a Burrito in Air Fryer
Ingredients & Tools Needed
Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need:
- Leftover burrito (refrigerated or frozen)
- Air fryer
- Cooking spray (optional)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil (if needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Reheat a Burrito in an Air Fryer
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Let it preheat for about 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. This step helps prevent cold spots and ensures the tortilla crisps up perfectly.
2. Prepare the Burrito
If your burrito has been in the refrigerator, simply place it directly in the air fryer basket—no extra steps needed.
However, if you’re reheating a frozen burrito, wrap it loosely in aluminum foil for the first few minutes. This prevents the outside from crisping too quickly while allowing the inside to warm up gradually.
3. Set the Cooking Time
The reheating time depends on whether your burrito is refrigerated or frozen:
- Refrigerated burrito: Cook for 5-8 minutes.
- Frozen burrito: Cook for 12-15 minutes. Keep it wrapped in foil for the first half of the time, then remove the foil for the last few minutes to achieve a crispy tortilla.
To ensure even heating, flip the burrito halfway through the cooking process.
4. Check the Temperature
For food safety, the burrito’s internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you have a food thermometer, check the center to ensure it’s fully heated. If not, cut it open and feel if the inside is warm throughout.
5. Enjoy Your Perfectly Reheated Burrito!
Carefully remove the burrito from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute or two. Once it’s safe to handle, dig in and enjoy the crispy, warm, and delicious burrito—just like it was freshly made!
How Long to Reheat a Burrito in an Air Fryer?
The time varies based on whether the burrito is refrigerated or frozen:
| Burrito Type | Temperature | Cooking Time |
| Refrigerated | 350°F (175°C) | 5-8 minutes |
| Frozen | 350°F (175°C) | 12-15 minutes |
If your burrito is stuffed with lots of fillings, add 1-2 extra minutes to ensure the inside is fully warm.
Can You Air Fry a Burrito Wrapped in Foil?
Yes! Wrapping the burrito in foil helps prevent the tortilla from crisping too quickly while the inside heats up, especially for frozen burritos. However, remove the foil during the last few minutes to allow the tortilla to crisp up nicely.
Important: Only use foil if your air fryer allows it—some models warn against it. Always check your air fryer manual before using foil.
Tips for the Best Reheated Burrito
- Don’t overfill the air fryer – If you’re reheating multiple burritos, leave some space between them for even cooking.
- Brush lightly with oil – A little oil spray on the tortilla can make it even crispier.
- Slice it in half – If your burrito is extra thick, cutting it in half helps it heat faster.
- Use parchment paper – If your burrito has a lot of cheese, parchment paper prevents sticking.
Final Thoughts
Reheating a burrito in an air fryer is the best way to bring it back to life—crispy, warm, and just as delicious as when it was first made. Whether it’s a homemade burrito, a takeout favorite, or a frozen one, following these simple steps will ensure perfect results every time.
So, next time you have a leftover burrito, skip the microwave and fire up the air fryer instead!
Related Article:
- How to Reheat a Sandwich in the Air Fryer
- How to Reheat Potatoes in Air Fryer
- How to Reheat Red Lobster Biscuits in Air Fryer
FAQs
Can I reheat a frozen burrito in an air fryer?
Yes! Start wrapped in foil for about 7 minutes, then remove the foil and cook for another 5-8 minutes until crispy.
What’s the best temperature to reheat a burrito in an air fryer?
350°F (175°C) is ideal. It warms the inside while crisping the tortilla.
Can I reheat a burrito with sour cream or guacamole inside?
If your burrito has creamy fillings like sour cream or guacamole, they may heat unevenly. Consider scraping them out before reheating and adding them back afterward.