I Didn’t Expect To Use The Air Fryer This Much— 23 Sides Changed Everything
The air fryer wasn’t supposed to take over, but here we are, using it more than anything else. It started with a few favorites, then 23 sides later, it became the default for getting food on the table. These are the kinds of wins that don’t require much thinking, just a press of a button. It works, so nobody’s arguing.

Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Turning potatoes into something crispy yet packed with flavor was a surprise hit. Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes are soft on the inside with a slightly textured outer layer that works well with nearly anything. It’s the kind of dish you can serve as a side or snack without extra effort. Perfect for adding something hearty without relying on the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole

Crisp ravioli layered together gave me options I didn’t expect. Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole combines texture and warmth in a way that feels complete yet simple. It’s perfect when you’re looking for something filling to pair with lighter meals. A quick option that works well for sharing or just keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole
Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Crab cakes got an upgrade with more crunch than expected. Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake produces a slightly crispy outer layer while staying tender inside. It’s perfect for pairing with simple salads or just enjoying as-is. A smart way to bring something fancy without unnecessary steps.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Peppers filled with hearty ingredients felt more enjoyable with less work. Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers cook evenly while maintaining a bit of bite and bold flavor. They’re a reliable choice for pairing with basic mains or serving on their own for smaller eats. A solid pick when versatility matters most.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Sticking to basics hit differently when fries turned super crispy. Air Fryer Homemade Fries give that perfect crunch without needing a deep fryer. They pair well with just about anything or work as a quick snack. Easy to make and great to keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries
Air Fryer Asparagus

Asparagus turned crisp without losing its freshness and became a simple favorite. Air Fryer Asparagus is a light side but still gives enough balance to complete any meal. It’s easy to adjust for larger portions without adding extra steps. Perfect when green sides need a little upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus
Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast felt easier when I threw potatoes into the air fryer. Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes come out golden and soft inside but crisp outside. They’re excellent for larger servings or just as a quiet start to the day. A dependable side that’s always worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes
Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Green beans in casserole form tasted better with added crunch from the fryer. Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole creates a balanced side that can be light or hearty depending on the main dish. It’s quick to manage and pairs well with almost anything. Great for making greens feel less routine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole
Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Smaller potatoes turned crisp made for a versatile addition to meals. Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes cook evenly while keeping their soft centers intact. They’re simple to pair with anything or enjoy alone if you’re looking for something snack-sized. A side that’s both quick and comforting for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Turning greens into a casserole felt less messy thanks to the fryer. Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole combines creamy layers with tender bites of veggie for something complete yet shareable. It’s a smart option for potlucks or casual dinners with less cleanup. A solid dish that feels hearty without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Cut-up pieces make every bite feel fresh while adding texture. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes stay soft with crisp edges, ideal for balanced plates. Easy to manage in large batches or set aside for snacks. A great addition to any mealtime rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Corn tasted better with a slight crispiness added in. Air Fryer Corn on the Cob keeps the sweet flavor intact while enhancing it with char-like edges. It’s simple but pairs well with large and small meals alike. A dependable side that’s quick to make and impresses with subtle changes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Air Fryer Baked Potato

Cooking a baked potato in less time felt way more convenient. Air Fryer Baked Potato delivers softness inside while the outer gets crisp and golden. It’s easy to add toppings or just leave it plain depending on what’s needed. Perfect for busy nights when you want less fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato
Air Fryer Broccoli

Broccoli transformed into something more enjoyable with crisp edges. Air Fryer Broccoli stays soft in the middle but gains texture that pairs well with mains or acts as a light snack. It’s easy to make while still feeling different from steaming or roasting. An effortless green option worth rotating into meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Whole sweet potatoes came out softer and richer than expected. Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes are perfect for pairing with spreads and sides or just cutting up and enjoying plain. They’re filling enough to act as a standalone snack too. A smart pick for replacing carb-heavy sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Air Fryer Egg Casserole

Baking eggs felt quicker with fewer steps involved. Air Fryer Egg Casserole layers simple ingredients into a shareable dish for breakfast or brunch. It’s filling but still manageable for mornings with limited prep time. A simple yet solid choice for getting out of traditional routines.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Casserole
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Sliced sweet potatoes turned golden and crispy felt like a snack upgrade. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges combine soft centers with textured sides making them shareable yet rich. They’re easy to fit into plates or serve alongside dips for variety. Perfect for those moments where snack plates need a little boost.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Bacon gets crunchier and cleaner when cooked this way. Crispy Air Fryer Bacon manages to keep all the flavor while reducing grease and mess. It’s a fast way to make larger servings without waiting by the stove. Great for mornings with hungry guests or adding bacon to sides.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon
Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Smaller potatoes turned crispy but still fluffy inside made a surprise hit. Air Fryer Baby Potatoes cook evenly and are easy to share across bigger gatherings. It’s a side dish that doesn’t overshadow anything but works in the background. A simple staple to pull out whenever needed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Potatoes
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Carrots turned sweet and slightly crisp felt fresher than usual. Air Fryer Glazed Carrots combine soft insides with a balanced outer finish making them versatile across meals. They’re quick and go well with heavier dishes as a lighter contrast. A side worth considering more often.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Casserole doesn’t need the oven for big results. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole balances creamy and soft layers making it an excellent side for a complete meal. It’s easy to portion and quick to assemble for larger servings. Great for family dinners with varied palates.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

A slight crisp added to mushrooms takes them up a level. Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms are tender and bold enough to pair with bigger mains or act as a standalone plate. They’re perfect for dinners where meat-heavy sides need something fresh next to them. Easy to snack on or share once ready.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes

Even mashed potatoes benefit from pulling in air fryer elements. Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes add flavor depth while staying creamy and rich in texture. They’re simple to whip up in larger batches without needing much extra. A reliable pick that never feels out of place on dinner tables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes
About the Author

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.
