I Found Dinner Joy Again Thanks To These 29 Air Fryer Recipes

There’s something oddly comforting about having 29 solid dinner options that don’t cause smoke alarms or emotional breakdowns. The air fryer’s been working overtime, but nobody’s mad about it. Meals have gone from “meh” to “when’s dinner?” and it’s kind of like winning the weekday lottery without buying a ticket.

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

A chocolate layer cake with a slice removed, showing a caramel and coconut filling, and covered with chocolate frosting.
Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A warm dessert like Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake feels special with its layers and textures. It’s easy to make and the top gets a nice, light crisp. The air fryer brings a different twist that makes this one stand out. A slice goes well with whatever you want to pair it with.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Freshly made jalapeño poppers on a plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy outside and creamy filling—Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers hit that balance perfectly. Each bite has just the right amount of spice to spice up snack time. They’re not messy to make and turn out evenly crisped. Great for quick get-togethers or even solo snacking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air fryer chicken wings served with fresh tomatoes and herbs on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The magic of Air Fryer Chicken Wings is in the texture. You get that restaurant-style crunch without needing tons of oil. Perfect for game nights, they’re simple yet feel like a treat. Just sauce them up or leave them plain—they work either way.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air Fryer Egg Casserole

A white casserole dish with an egg casserole in it.
Air Fryer Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

What makes Air Fryer Egg Casserole a standout is how versatile it is. Soft yet firm, it comes together easily for breakfast or brunch. Everything cooks evenly in the air fryer, making it super convenient. It’s a no-hassle way to customize your morning meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Casserole

Air Fryer French Onion Soup

A close-up of baked French onion soup topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh thyme in a rustic bowl.
Air Fryer French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The air fryer takes Air Fryer French Onion Soup to the next level with its crispy top layer. The melted topping and the rich base together make it comforting. It’s pretty easy to put together, making it approachable even for a weeknight. Works great as a starter or a main dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Soup

Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Bagel bites in an air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Bagel Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Bagel Bites are like an upgraded snack that appeals to everyone. The crunch on the outside and soft inside work so well together. Great for kiddos or adults looking for something quick and fun. You can make them in batches effortlessly without waiting long.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Air Fryer Pork Chops

Close-up of seasoned and cooked air fryer pork chops, garnished with herbs and cracked black pepper.
Air Fryer Pork Chops. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tender but with a slightly crispy outside, Air Fryer Pork Chops are a dinner game-changer. The air fryer cooks them evenly, leaving you with juicy bites. They’re not overly complex, but somehow feel like a step-up from ordinary meals. A solid option for a quick dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops

Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes in a serving bowl.
Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes come out crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. The air fryer ensures an even finish that’s not greasy at all. A great side dish or even a snack, they require minimal effort to prep. They pair well with just about any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Air Fryer Eggplant

Slices of grilled eggplant with charred edges on a pink plate, garnished with small cilantro leaves.
Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Soft inside, crispy outside—that’s what Air Fryer Eggplant does best. Air frying eliminates the soggy texture sometimes associated with this veggie. Perfect as a side dish or even a base for something bigger. It’s simple but works in all kinds of meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole

Close-up of an air fryer mushroom casserole topped with crispy, browned ingredients and garnished with chopped green herbs.
Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and rich, Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole feels hearty without being heavy. The cheese gets a golden finish on top that’s hard to beat. A great option for when you want something comforting but fast. Perfect for a side dish or even a vegetarian main.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole

Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

Baked potato skins topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions on parchment paper.
Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The crunch in Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins is always spot-on. They’re easy to make and feel like a fun, shareable snack. The toppings get this perfectly cooked finish that makes them hard to resist. Perfect for small gatherings or when you’re in the mood for something casual.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

Two flatbread pizzas on a tray.
Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thin and crispy, Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza comes together quickly for a quick lunch or dinner. The base gets an excellent, even crunch that’s hard to replicate in a regular oven. You can add whatever flavors you want and it’ll turn out great. It’s quicker and easier than delivery for sure.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tender with a slight crisp, Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms are a great side or snack. They come together quickly with no fuss. The garlic flavor really sticks, making each bite more flavorful than you expect. Simple, quick, and super versatile.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

Two homemade black bean burgers in buns ready to eat.
Air Fryer Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Black Bean Burger holds up well with its hearty texture. It’s not flimsy or overly mushy like some other veggie options. Great on a bun or even by itself for a low-key, healthy meal. Convenient and approachable for an easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown crab cakes stacked on a plate, garnished with chopped herbs and set on a white paper.
Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The crisp on Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake is what makes it shine. You get a golden, firm outside with a tender inside. It’s an upgrade to homemade seafood night that doesn’t take forever to execute. Best way to enjoy a quick seafood option without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air fryer glazed carrots in a bowl with parsley.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The natural sweetness of Air Fryer Glazed Carrots is enhanced in the fryer. They come out tender without being mushy, and the glaze gets a perfect finish. A great side dish to switch things up for weeknight dinners. Simple to make and surprisingly flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

A bowl with rice, glazed chicken pieces, sliced avocado, edamame, shredded carrots, seaweed, and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

What makes Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl work is how evenly the fish cooks. It’s flaky but still holds together nicely. This dish feels complete and doesn’t need extra sides unless you want them. A reliable option for when you want healthy but quick meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

Air Fryer Nut Roast

Nut roast with cranberry sauce on a plate.
Air Fryer Nut Roast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty and firm, Air Fryer Nut Roast provides a great meat-free option without compromising texture. The air fryer gives it a beautiful crisp on the outside. A great main dish that feels approachable yet impactful. Perfect for anyone looking for a fresh vegetarian option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nut Roast

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Image of cooked air fryer cod fillets seasoned with herbs and garnished with lemon wedges and parsley on a plate.
Crispy Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The golden finish on Crispy Air Fryer Cod is what stands out most. Flaky on the inside but perfectly crisp on the outside, it’s a seafood choice that’s hard to beat. Works as a main dish or even for things like sandwiches. Turns out restaurant-quality every single time.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air fried tortilla chips stacked on a plate around a bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Making Air Fryer Tortilla Chips gives you that crisp factor without frying. They’re light, fresh, and perfect for dips or snacking. Batch-making is simple, and each piece has an even crunch. They bring something extra to homemade snacks without any difficulty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito

Close-up of several wrapped burritos on a table, with some cut open showing a filling of ground meat and sauce. Pieces of roasted potato and cilantro are scattered around.
Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The recreation of Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito turns out just as fulfilling as its fast food counterpart. The air fryer softens the inside while crisping up the outside. It’s basically a meal in itself, done in less time than you expect. Perfect for those craving something hearty yet homemade.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito

Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

What grabs your attention about Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole is its creamy texture. The air fryer retains the vegetables’ crunch while combining them with other layers effortlessly. A great blend of fresh and filling for a side choice or light main meal. It’s easy but feels unique.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The warm filling in Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich hits differently than traditional cold versions. The bread gets a light crisp that changes the whole game. Quick to assemble, it’s perfect for when you want a slightly upgraded sandwich experience. Great for lunches that need a little something extra.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Melty in the middle and crunchy outside, Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are a snack everyone loves. They’re quick to prep and come out less greasy than fried versions. You can easily make a whole batch for sharing or just a plate for yourself. Perfect for quick hunger fixes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy with a slight crisp, Air Fryer Shrimp cooks up just right each time. It’s versatile for salads, tacos, or main dishes. Prepping it in an air fryer keeps things simple but effective. A go-to option for seafood lovers looking for fast results.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

A tortilla pizza in an air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thin, crispy, and easy to make, Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza works for quick meals without sacrificing quality. The crust gets evenly browned and stays crunchy. Perfect for days when you just want something simple and delicious. It feels like a homemade solution for pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

A close-up of a lasagna slice being lifted from a baking dish, showing layers of pasta, meat sauce, cheese, and garnished with herbs.
Easy Air Fryer Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of flavor come together in Easy Air Fryer Lasagna, cooked faster than the oven version. The cheese on top gets that slightly browned goodness you want in lasagna. It’s a smaller, quicker approach to a classic dish. A perfect comfort option for smaller servings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms

A bowl of crispy, breaded air fryer Portobello mushrooms garnished with fresh herbs, accompanied by a small bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Meaty and hearty, Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms work as a side or even a main option. The air fryer gives the perfect texture—not too soft, not too firm. They hold up well whether you’re stuffing them or keeping them plain. Easy, dependable, and packed with possibilities.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snack time feels more fun with Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. They cook evenly and have that balance between crunch and filling. Making them in an air fryer cuts down the wait and mess compared to a traditional oven. Ideal for quick cravings or kid-friendly snacks.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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