Air Fryer Frozen Borek Bites

If you’re craving a quick and delicious appetizer, these Air Fryer Frozen Borek Bites are a game-changer! Also known as burek, this savory Turkish pastry is filled with a creamy mix of cheese and spinach, all wrapped in crisp, golden phyllo dough. Cooking frozen borek in the air fryer brings out the perfect crunch without the need for oil or preheating—making it the easiest and tastiest way to enjoy this Mediterranean favorite right at home.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Frozen Borek Bites

• The air fryer gives these borek bites an irresistibly crispy texture without deep frying. You get that golden, crunchy phyllo dough on the outside with no extra oil needed. It’s a healthier way to enjoy this classic pastry. The results taste just like freshly baked burek!

• No need to thaw—just pop the frozen borek bites straight into the air fryer. They cook up in just 11 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute guests or a quick snack. You’ll love how simple and foolproof this method is. It’s the ultimate no-prep appetizer!

• Each bite is packed with a creamy blend of cheese and tender spinach. The flavor is savory, rich, and perfectly balanced by the light, flaky crust. It’s a satisfying vegetarian option that everyone will enjoy. Even picky eaters can’t resist that gooey cheese!

• These little bites make a great party snack or appetizer. Serve them with dips or on a platter, and they’ll disappear fast! Their beautiful golden color and crispy texture make them look as good as they taste. Guests will be asking how you made them so perfectly!

• The air fryer gives these frozen pastries that fresh-baked taste without any fuss. You’ll be amazed at how gourmet they feel with zero prep or cleanup. It’s like getting bakery-quality borek in minutes. Just heat, eat, and enjoy!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Borek Bites

• Frozen Borek Bites (Cheese and Spinach Filled) – These come ready-to-cook straight from the freezer and are filled with a delicious mixture of creamy cheese and spinach. They’re wrapped in delicate layers of phyllo dough that get extra crispy in the air fryer.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Frozen Borek Bites

• Air Fryer – The key to getting these borek bites perfectly crispy with no oil or preheating.

• Tongs – Helpful for placing and removing the hot borek bites safely from the air fryer basket.

How To Make Air Fryer Frozen Borek Bites

• Take the frozen borek bites out of the package—no need to thaw!

• Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket so they’re not touching.

• Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook for 11 minutes.

• Once they’re golden brown and the cheese starts to melt, they’re ready to enjoy.

• Use tongs to remove them from the basket and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Optional: You can check the inside with a thermometer to be sure the temperature reaches at least 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange them on a platter with small bowls of creamy greek yogurt, tzatziki, or spicy mayo for dipping.

• A light tomato cucumber onion salad with lemon juice makes a refreshing side.

• These bites go perfectly with a warm bowl of tomato or lentil soup for a cozy meal.

• Combine with olives, homemade hummus, pita bread, and stuffed grape leaves for a full Mediterranean-style spread.

• Pair with fried eggs, fresh blueberries, and lemon honey tea for a unique brunch addition that guests will love.

Tips For Success

• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Place the frozen borek bites in a single layer with space between each piece. This helps the air circulate evenly so every bite gets nice and crispy. If needed, cook in batches to avoid soggy or unevenly cooked bites. A little spacing goes a long way toward perfect results.

• No preheating needed. One of the best things about this recipe is that the air fryer doesn’t need to be preheated. Just place the frozen borek in and start cooking. Preheating can overcook the outside before the inside is hot. Skipping this step saves time and keeps things simple.

• Keep an eye on cooking time. Check your borek bites around the 10-minute mark. They should be golden brown and the cheese should start to melt out slightly. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. It’s always better to check early than to overcook.

• Use a thermometer for peace of mind. If it’s your first time making these, a quick check with an instant-read thermometer can help. Make sure the inside reaches 165°F for food safety. Once you’re familiar with the look and feel of doneness, you may not need to use it every time. It’s just an extra layer of confidence for new cooks.

• Serve right away. Remove the bites from the air fryer as soon as they’re done. Letting them sit in the basket too long can make the pastry soggy from the steam. Use tongs to move them to a plate or platter. Give them a minute to cool before serving—then enjoy that crispy texture and melty filling!

Variations And Substitutions

• Try different fillings. If you find other types of frozen borek bites at the store, give them a try! Some may have beef, potato, or mushroom fillings instead of cheese and spinach. The cooking method stays the same for all varieties. Just check the package for any specific instructions.

• Make it dairy-free. Look for vegan or dairy-free borek bites if you’re avoiding cheese. These versions often use plant-based cheese or a veggie-only filling. They’re perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Be sure to check labels to confirm they’re fully vegan.

• Add a dipping sauce. While borek bites are delicious on their own, dipping sauces can take them to the next level. Try tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, marinara, or spicy harissa. These add flavor and variety, especially if you’re serving a crowd. They also make it feel like a restaurant-style appetizer.

• Use a toaster oven or oven. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake frozen borek bites in a conventional or toaster oven. Just follow the instructions on the package, or use 375°F and bake until golden and heated through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air fried, but still very tasty. This is a good option if you’re making a large batch.

• Customize your own filling (if using fresh borek). If you want to make borek from scratch and air fry it, you can get creative with your fillings. Ground meat, feta, herbs, or mashed potatoes all work well. Wrap the filling in phyllo dough and freeze them individually for later. Then follow the same air fryer method for fresh-frozen results!

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge. Let the borek bites cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep them in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This keeps them fresh without getting soggy.

• Reheat in the air fryer. The air fryer is the best way to reheat borek bites and bring back that crispy texture. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 3–5 minutes until heated through. Avoid the microwave, which can make the dough rubbery or soggy. Reheating in the oven is a backup option, but it takes longer.

• Freezing after cooking is not recommended. These borek bites are best enjoyed fresh from the freezer or stored in the fridge if already cooked. Re-freezing cooked bites can change the texture and make the pastry chewy. It’s better to only cook the amount you plan to eat. If you have lots, cook in smaller batches as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook borek bites straight from frozen?

Yes, absolutely! This recipe is designed for frozen borek bites with no thawing required. Just place them in the air fryer and cook—no extra steps or prep needed. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy days.

What temperature should I set the air fryer to?

Set your air fryer to 390°F. This temperature helps the phyllo dough get crispy while ensuring the filling is heated through. You’ll get that golden exterior with a perfectly melty center. If your air fryer runs hot, check a minute or two early to prevent overcooking.

How do I know when borek bites are done?

Look for a golden brown color and signs of the cheese starting to melt. These are the best visual cues that they’re fully cooked. If you want to be sure, use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 165°F. Once you get used to the look and feel, you likely won’t need the thermometer.

Can I use this method for homemade borek?

Yes, if you make borek from scratch and freeze it, you can use the same air fryer method. Just place the frozen homemade borek in the air fryer and cook as directed. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly before freezing to avoid freezer burn. The cook time may be similar or slightly longer depending on size.

What are good dipping sauces for borek?

Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or spicy red pepper dips are all fantastic with borek. You can also try ranch, sour cream, or even marinara for something different. The creamy cheese and spinach filling pairs well with both tangy and spicy flavors. A dipping sauce adds even more flavor to each bite.

Why did my borek bites leak cheese?

This can happen if they’re slightly overcooked or cooked at too high a temperature. Watch closely near the end of the cooking time, especially the first time you make them. Once you see the cheese begin to melt out, they’re usually ready to come out. A little cheese escaping is fine, but too much can mean they were in too long.

Can I cook a whole bag at once?

It depends on the size of your air fryer. For best results, don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook them in a single layer and do multiple batches if needed. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.

How long do leftovers last?

Stored properly in the fridge, leftover borek bites will last up to 3 days. Make sure they’ve cooled completely before putting them in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture. They’re just as delicious the next day!

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