Short Answer:

To avoid bursting or leaking fillings when cooking frozen snacks in an air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket and cook at the recommended temperature, usually 180–200°C (360–400°F). Overheating or uneven cooking can cause the filling to burst through the coating.

Shaking or flipping the snacks gently halfway through cooking helps ensure even heat distribution. Preheating the air fryer and using moderate cooking times also reduce the risk of leaks, keeping the exterior crispy while the inside stays hot and intact.

Detailed Explanation:

Avoiding Bursting or Leaking Fillings

Cook at the Right Temperature
Maintaining the correct cooking temperature is essential to prevent bursting. For most frozen snacks like pizza rolls, mozzarella sticks, or nuggets with fillings, 180–200°C (360–400°F) is ideal. Too high a temperature can cause the exterior to crisp too quickly, building pressure inside and leading to leaks. Cooking at the proper temperature allows the filling to heat gradually while the coating crisps evenly.

Proper Basket Arrangement
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Placing too many items together restricts airflow, which can cause uneven cooking. Uneven heat can create hot spots, making some snacks burst while others remain undercooked. Single-layer arrangement with space between each item ensures consistent cooking and reduces pressure on the fillings.

Shake or Flip Snacks Midway
Shaking or flipping snacks halfway through cooking helps distribute heat evenly. This prevents one side from overcooking, which can build pressure inside and cause the filling to escape. Regular flipping ensures the exterior cooks uniformly and the filling heats properly without leaking.

Moderate Cooking Time
Cooking frozen snacks for the recommended time is crucial. Overcooking increases internal pressure and can make the filling burst. Follow manufacturer instructions or general air fryer guidelines for time, usually 6–12 minutes depending on snack type, size, and thickness. Monitor snacks in the final minutes to prevent overcooking.

Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer for 2–3 minutes before adding frozen snacks ensures immediate and even heat distribution. This reduces the risk of uneven cooking that can lead to bursts. Preheating also helps achieve a crisp exterior quickly, keeping the filling safely inside.

Optional Light Oil Spray
For snacks like mozzarella sticks or breaded rolls, a light spray of oil can help crisp the coating. A crispy exterior forms faster and holds the filling in place, minimizing leaks. Avoid heavy oil, which can cause sogginess and increase bursting risks.

Conclusion:

To prevent bursting or leaking fillings in frozen snacks, maintain the recommended air fryer temperature, arrange items in a single layer, shake or flip midway, and follow moderate cooking times. Preheating and optional light oil help create a crisp exterior that holds fillings securely. Following these steps ensures snacks are crispy outside and intact inside, providing a safe and enjoyable eating experience.