Short Answer:

To ensure frozen foods are cooked thoroughly in an air fryer, arrange them in a single layer with space for proper airflow, cook at the recommended temperature (usually 180–200°C), and shake or flip midway.

Using a food thermometer to check internal temperature is important, especially for meat or stuffed items. Preheating the air fryer, avoiding overcrowding, and following recommended cooking times ensures that frozen foods are fully cooked, safe to eat, and achieve a crispy exterior with a properly heated interior.

Detailed Explanation:

Ensuring Thorough Cooking of Frozen Foods

Proper Arrangement
Arrange frozen foods in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid stacking or overcrowding, as this blocks airflow and can prevent even cooking. Spacing allows hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring the exterior crisps and the interior heats thoroughly.

Correct Temperature
Cooking frozen foods at 180–200°C (360–400°F) promotes even heat distribution and thorough cooking. Lower temperatures may cook food too slowly, leaving cold spots, while excessively high temperatures can brown the outside before the interior is fully cooked. Following the recommended temperature ensures food is safe and evenly cooked.

Shaking or Flipping Midway
Shaking or flipping the food halfway through cooking ensures all sides are exposed to hot air. This step is especially important for thick, coated, or irregularly shaped frozen items like chicken nuggets, fries, or spring rolls. Flipping prevents undercooked or unevenly cooked portions.

Using a Food Thermometer
For meat, poultry, or stuffed foods, check the internal temperature to confirm thorough cooking. Poultry should reach at least 75°C (165°F), while beef, pork, or lamb should reach 63–71°C (145–160°F) depending on doneness. Thermometers ensure food is safe to eat and prevent overcooking.

Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheating for 2–3 minutes before cooking helps the air fryer reach the correct temperature quickly, ensuring frozen foods begin cooking immediately and evenly. Preheating reduces cooking time and prevents unevenly cooked or partially frozen centers.

Optional Light Oil and Seasoning
A small spray of oil can help frozen foods brown evenly and enhance crispiness. Seasoning before or after cooking can improve flavor, but excessive oil is unnecessary, as air fryers circulate hot air efficiently.

Monitoring Cooking Time
Adjust cooking time based on the size and type of frozen food. Smaller pieces require less time, while thicker or larger items may need a few extra minutes. Monitor food visually and check doneness to avoid undercooked or overcooked results.

Conclusion:

To ensure frozen foods are thoroughly cooked in an air fryer, preheat the appliance, arrange items in a single layer, cook at 180–200°C, shake or flip midway, and check internal temperature for safety. These steps produce evenly cooked, golden, and crispy frozen foods with properly heated interiors while maintaining texture and flavor.