How to Cook Frozen Grands Biscuits in an Airfryer – The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Frozen Grands biscuits cooked in an airfryer basket
Perfectly golden frozen Grands biscuits after air frying

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, especially when it comes to quick and tasty baked goods. If you’ve ever stared at a pack of frozen Pillsbury Grands biscuits and wondered, “Can I just toss these in the air fryer?” the answer is yes. In this article, we’re diving deep into how to make frozen Grands biscuits in an airfryer so they turn out golden on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. We’ll walk through cook times, temperatures, different biscuit types (including sausage biscuits), and common mistakes to avoid.

Whether you’re rushing through a busy morning or whipping up a cozy weekend brunch, this guide will help you make the most of your air fryer. Check out our delicious air fryer breakfast ideas like Turkey Bacon in Air Fryer to round out your meal.

Why Choose the Air Fryer for Frozen Grands Biscuits?

Why Air Fryers Are a Game-Changer for Cooking Frozen Biscuits

Air fryers aren’t just for fries—they’re baking champs too. Pillsbury Grands biscuits, whether flaky layers or buttery buttermilk, cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer. Here’s why this method is a favorite:

  • Speed: No preheating a whole oven. In 10–12 minutes, you’re done.
  • Texture Perfection: Achieve golden-brown edges with irresistibly soft, fluffy centers—just like (or better than) oven-baked biscuits—all thanks to the air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation.
  • Energy Efficiency: Use less electricity than ovens, ideal for small batches.
  • No Thaw Required: Straight from freezer to fryer—no hassle.

Air fryers circulate hot air fast and evenly, mimicking the convection bake setting of your oven but in a compact, more efficient way. This makes them perfect for biscuits that need a bit of crisping while staying tender inside.

How Air Frying Differs from Baking in an Oven or Microwave

Let’s compare how each method performs with frozen biscuits:

MethodPrep TimeCook TimeTextureBest For
Air Fryer1 min10–12 minsCrispy outside, soft insideEveryday fast meals
Oven10 mins20–25 minsClassic, even bakeLarge batches
Microwave0 mins1–2 minsSoft, sometimes rubberyEmergency only

Air frying gives the best compromise between speed and quality, making it a great choice for small households or anyone who loves quick, comforting snacks.

Understanding Pillsbury Grands Biscuits and Their Frozen Varieties

Pillsbury frozen Grands biscuit package varieties
Pillsbury Grands options you can cook in the air fryer

What Are Pillsbury Grands? Original, Buttermilk, Flaky & More

Pillsbury Grands come in multiple versions, each with its own flavor and texture profile. Understanding which type you’re working with will help you adjust your air frying process for perfect results.

Types of Pillsbury Grands Biscuits:

TypeTextureBest Use Case
OriginalBalanced, soft biteGeneral meals and sides
ButtermilkRich, slightly tangyBreakfast sandwiches or with gravy
Flaky LayersPeel-apart textureSnacking, sandwiches, with butter
Honey ButterSweet and butteryBrunches and dessert biscuits
Southern StyleDense and heartyPairing with fried chicken or stews

These biscuits can be found in refrigerated or frozen form. While both work in the air fryer, frozen Grands save you time no need for thawing, and they maintain freshness longer.

Freezing vs Refrigerated Dough: What to Expect in Texture and Taste

Refrigerated biscuits tend to offer fresher flavor and texture, but they need proper storage and close monitoring to prevent spoilage or drying out before use. Frozen Grands, on the other hand, are convenient and ideal for batch storage. Here’s how they compare when air-fried:

FeatureFrozen BiscuitsRefrigerated Biscuits
StorageLong-term (months)Short-term (weeks)
PrepDirect from freezerDirect from fridge
Air Fryer ResultCrispier edges, even insideSofter texture, browns faster

One thing to note: frozen Grands tend to expand slightly less than fresh dough due to moisture reduction in freezing, so allow extra cook time if needed.

Preparing Frozen Grands Biscuits for the Air Fryer

No Thawing Needed: Prepping Straight from Frozen

One of the best things about cooking frozen Grands biscuits in an airfryer is the zero-prep convenience. Unlike other frozen baked goods that require thawing, Grands go directly from freezer to basket.

Here’s a quick checklist to follow:

  • Remove from packaging carefully – Frozen biscuits are delicate; avoid cracking.
  • Avoid overcrowding – Give each biscuit room to expand and crisp.
  • Place parchment or use non-stick spray – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Preheat air fryer (optional but recommended) – 3–5 minutes at 350°F gets the basket hot, reducing cooking time and improving crust.

Even when you’re in a rush, skipping thawing won’t compromise results just make sure you adjust timing slightly based on your air fryer’s power and size.

Best Practices: Preheating, Oiling, Spacing, and Basket Tips

Let’s break down the air fryer prep into key actions that can boost your biscuit results:

Prep StepWhy It MattersPro Tip
PreheatingHelps with even cooking & browning350°F for 3–5 minutes
Non-stick SprayPrevents sticking to basket or rackUse oil spray—not aerosol cooking spray
SpacingPromotes full expansion and crisp edgesLeave 1 inch between each biscuit
FlippingNot always required, but improves evennessFlip once at halfway mark if needed
Liner OptionsEasier cleanupTry perforated parchment liners

Some people layer foil or parchment, but be cautious—airflow is key in air frying. If you use parchment, make sure it’s perforated and weighed down by the biscuits themselves to avoid blocking heat circulation.

Looking for inspiration? Try pairing your biscuits with Air Fried Sweet Potato Cubes for a cozy breakfast or brunch.

Cooking Frozen Grands Biscuits in the Airfryer – Step-by-Step

Air fryer showing 340°F temperature while cooking biscuits
Ideal air fryer settings for frozen Grands biscuits

Time and Temperature: The Golden Numbers for Crispy Outsides and Fluffy Centers

Cooking frozen Grands biscuits in an airfryer is simple once you know the right combination of time and temperature. The key is achieving a perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior while locking in a soft, fluffy center exactly what makes air-fried biscuits so irresistible.

Here’s the standard go-to formula:

Biscuit TypeTemperatureTimeNotes
Pillsbury Grands (Frozen)340°F (170°C)12–14 minutesFlip at 7-minute mark if needed
Flaky Layers350°F (175°C)10–12 minutesWatch closely—browns faster
Buttermilk Style330°F (165°C)13–15 minutesLonger due to density
Honey Butter340°F (170°C)10–12 minutesMonitor sugar caramelization

Pro Tip: Always start checking your biscuits at the 10-minute mark. If they look pale, continue cooking in 1-minute increments.

Air fryers vary in wattage and basket style, so consider running a test batch the first time. Some units heat hotter than others—even a 10-degree difference can change the outcome.

Common Air Fryer Models and Slight Timing Variations

Different brands and styles of air fryers (basket vs. toaster-style) influence cook times. Here’s a breakdown of how you might need to tweak your settings:

Air Fryer ModelAdjustment Needed
Ninja FoodiSlightly lower temp, cooks hot
Instant VortexAdd 1–2 minutes if using racks
Philips Airfryer XXLEven cooking, follow standard time
Cosori Dual BlazeRequires less flipping—dual heating
Cuisinart Toaster Oven StyleIncrease cook time by 2–3 minutes

Always make sure your model has good air circulation and avoid using thick foil or blocking vents. For the perfect breakfast combo, be sure to check out Frozen Hash Browns in the Air Fryer for another great breakfast pairing.

Once your biscuits are puffed and golden, remove them with tongs and rest them for 2 minutes. This lets the steam settle and prevents gummy centers.

Frozen Biscuit Variations – Sausage, Cheese, & Sweet Treats

Air-fried sausage biscuit made with frozen Grands
Sausage breakfast sandwich made with air-fried Grands

How to Air Fry Frozen Sausage Biscuits (Jimmy Dean, Homemade, etc.)

If you’ve got a freezer stash of frozen sausage biscuits—like Jimmy Dean, Great Value, or even your own homemade versions—you’re in luck. These heat up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you a crispy biscuit and hot, juicy sausage in one go.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C)
  • Place frozen sausage biscuit in the basket (no need to separate halves)
  • Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway
  • Always verify the internal temperature of sausage it should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

For thicker, homemade sausage patties inside Grands biscuits, add 1–2 extra minutes and flip carefully to avoid splitting.

TypeTempTimeFlip Needed?Note
Jimmy Dean Biscuit350°F10–12 minYesRemove wrapper before air frying
Homemade Biscuit Sandwich350°F12–14 minYesUse parchment to catch drips
Mini Sausage Sliders340°F8–9 minOptionalGreat for brunch platters

Want a full breakfast? Pair these with Turkey Bacon in Air Fryer for a fast and protein-rich combo.

Try tasty variations like Frozen Biscuit Breakfast Sandwiches, Jam-Filled Biscuits, or sweet Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Treats all easy to make and even better in the air fryer.

Your frozen Grands biscuits can go from simple to spectacular with just a few creative twists. Here are a few tasty options:

1. Breakfast Sandwich Biscuits

Slice your air-fried biscuit in half and fill with:

  • Scrambled eggs
  • Cheese slices
  • Cooked bacon or sausage

2. Jam-Stuffed Sweet Biscuits

For a delicious twist, gently press a small indentation into the center of each biscuit before air frying, then add a spoonful of your favorite jam for a sweet, gooey center. Air fry as usual. Top with powdered sugar after cooking.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits

After cooking:

  • Brush the biscuit tops with melted butter
  • Roll in cinnamon sugar
  • Serve warm with icing drizzle or fruit preserves

4. Mini Biscuit Pizzas

Halfway through cooking, gently flatten each biscuit, then layer with marinara sauce, shredded cheese, and pepperoni for a quick and crispy air fryer biscuit pizza. Return to air fryer for final 5 minutes.

These fun variations make Grands biscuits incredibly versatile—from savory breakfast to sweet afternoon snacks.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Biscuits Every Time

Avoiding Soggy Bottoms: Basket Placement and Turning Halfway

One of the most common issues when making frozen Grands biscuits in an airfryer is soggy or doughy bottoms. This usually happens when there’s poor airflow or overcrowding in the basket. Here’s how to prevent it:

  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket leave at least 1 inch of space between each biscuit to ensure even air circulation and perfectly crispy results.
  • Use the basket rack or trivet if available: Elevates the biscuit so hot air hits the bottom.
  • Flip at halfway point (if thick): Particularly with denser varieties like Buttermilk or Southern Style.
  • Avoid solid liners: Perforated parchment is fine; foil isn’t unless you poke airflow holes.

If your air fryer tends to collect steam underneath the biscuits, use a small rack insert to lift them and allow better underside cooking.

How to Prevent Overbrowning or Drying Out

Grands biscuits have a soft, buttery interior—but in a high-heat air fryer, the outer layer can brown too fast or dry out. Here’s how to control that:

ProblemCauseFix
Tops browning too fastHigh rack placement or hot air spotLower basket or rotate position mid-cook
Center undercookedToo large, uneven cookingAdd 1–2 minutes at 300°F after initial bake
Dry/hard biscuitsOvercooking or excessive flippingReduce cook time or lower temp by 10°F

Bonus Tip: For an extra soft center, brush biscuit tops with melted butter halfway through cooking. This prevents drying and enhances flavor.

Don’t miss our cozy Keto Corn Dog Casserole Recipe — another comfort food favorite that pairs perfectly with flaky biscuits!

Best Dishes to Pair with Air Fried Grands Biscuits

Breakfast Sides: Turkey Bacon, Eggs, and Hash Browns

Grands biscuits straight from the air fryer are a meal on their own—but they shine even brighter as part of a complete breakfast. Here are some tasty ideas that turn your air-fried biscuits into a full spread:

1. Turkey Bacon

Crispy, lean, and protein-packed, turkey bacon is the ideal pairing. Plus, you can cook it right in your air fryer alongside the biscuits—just stagger the start times.

Learn more about prepping it right in our Turkey Bacon in Air Fryer Guide.

2. Eggs Your Way

  • Scrambled eggs with cheddar
  • Over-easy eggs for dipping
  • Prep-ahead egg muffins are a time-saving breakfast option—just reheat them in the air fryer for a warm, fluffy bite with a lightly crisped edge in minutes.

Pro tip: Slice a biscuit and build a DIY breakfast sandwich—egg, bacon, and cheese tucked between fluffy layers.

3. Frozen Hash Browns

Frozen hash browns and Grands cook well together in most air fryer baskets, especially if you stagger start times by 3–5 minutes.

Explore tasty options like Air Fryer Frozen Hash Browns a quick and easy way to enjoy perfectly golden, crispy sides with any breakfast.

Dinner Pairings: Soups, Casseroles, and Salads

Air-fried biscuits aren’t just for mornings. Their buttery flavor and fluffy texture also make them the perfect companion for cozy dinners.

Main DishWhy It Works With Grands Biscuits
Chicken Pot Pie SoupDipping, soaking, or breaking into the bowl
Beef or Veggie ChiliAdds richness and contrast to spice
Baked Mac and CheeseAdds a flaky texture to creamy pasta
Fresh Garden SaladBalances richness with something light
Broccoli Cheddar SoupCheesy base pairs well with buttery biscuit

For hearty keto meals, consider serving them alongside something like our Keto Corn Dog Casserole for a family-friendly, carb-conscious combo.

Pairing matters. A perfectly cooked biscuit can elevate even a simple weeknight dinner into a warm, satisfying feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Air Frying Grands Biscuits

Overcrowding, Undercooking, and Using the Wrong Temperature

Air frying frozen Grands biscuits is simple, but common beginner mistakes can leave you with undercooked, doughy results instead of the fluffy, golden biscuits you’re craving. Let’s break down the most common ones and how to avoid them:

1. Overcrowding the Basket

Trying to cook too many biscuits at once can result in uneven cooking. The biscuits need space to rise and for air to circulate.

Fix: Stick to 3–4 biscuits at a time in a standard basket-style air fryer, with at least 1 inch between them.

2. Undercooking the Centers

Grands biscuits are thick and flaky, which means they cook more slowly inside than they appear on the outside. Don’t let a golden-brown top fool you.

Fix: Always cook for at least 12 minutes at 340°F–350°F, and test by breaking one open to check for doneness.

3. Using the Wrong Temperature

A temperature that’s too high will brown the outside too fast, leaving the inside raw. Too low and the biscuit might dry out before it finishes cooking.

Fix: Stick to the sweet spot—340°F to 350°F for most frozen biscuit types.

How to Fix Underbaked Centers Without Burning the Top

Sometimes you pull out a beautiful-looking biscuit, crack it open—and find gooey dough in the center. Don’t panic. Here’s how to fix it:

ProblemSolution
Undercooked centerReturn to air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 more minutes
Burnt tops formingCover biscuit loosely with foil or parchment
Still doughy after returnReduce heat and cook in 1-minute increments

Also, avoid opening the air fryer too often during cooking. This can cause temperature drops that disrupt even heating.

With these pitfalls avoided, your Grands biscuits will come out consistently light, fluffy, and golden every time.

👉 Check out these healthy air fryer zucchini fries that pair perfectly with hash browns.

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FAQ – Frozen Grands Biscuits in the Air Fryer

Wondering if you can cook frozen Grands biscuits in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen Grands biscuits directly in the air fryer without thawing. The air fryer crisps the outside beautifully while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Simply preheat to 340°F–350°F, place the biscuits in a single layer, and cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway if needed.

How long do I cook Grands frozen biscuits?

For most standard frozen Grands biscuits, the ideal air fryer time is 12–14 minutes at 340°F. Start checking for doneness at the 10-minute mark. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model and biscuit size.
Type Temp Time
Grands Flaky Layers 350°F 10–12 min
Grands Buttermilk 340°F 12–14 min
Southern Style Grands 330°F 13–15 min

How long to cook frozen sausage biscuits in an air fryer?

Frozen sausage biscuits like Jimmy Dean can be cooked at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Flip at the halfway mark to ensure even heating, and always check that the sausage reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F.

How long to cook Pillsbury in the air fryer?

Whether you’re cooking Grands or standard Pillsbury biscuits, the typical air fryer time is 10–14 minutes at 340°F–350°F, depending on the thickness and whether they’re frozen or refrigerated.
Frozen Grands: 12–14 minutes
Refrigerated Pillsbury biscuits: 8–10 minutes

Can you air fry Pillsbury Grands?

Absolutely. Pillsbury Grands are ideal for air frying due to their sturdy, layered structure. Just space them well, avoid foil, and don’t skip the flip at the 7-minute mark if they’re thick.

What temperature do you cook Pillsbury Grands biscuits?

The best temperature range for air frying Grands biscuits is 340°F to 350°F. Lower temps (330°F) may be needed for dense varieties like buttermilk or Southern Style. Higher temps can brown the outside too quickly before the center is done.
You’re now equipped with expert knowledge to master frozen Grands biscuits in your air fryer. Whether you’re cooking breakfast, brunch, or a comforting side, this guide ensures crispy, golden, and fluffy results every single time.

Don’t miss our Healthy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries for a perfect pairing that’s healthy and delicious.

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