I Used My Air Fryer And Skipped The Oven Meltdown With 27 Recipes

Keeping dinner on track without overheating the house started with avoiding the oven altogether. The 27 air fryer meals that followed made the evenings smoother and gave back a little breathing room. No one missed the usual mess, and even the picky ones stopped hovering around the kitchen.

A plate of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, with a fork and knife resting on the plate.
Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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.

Using the air fryer, Maryland crab cakes come out crisp on the outside while staying moist inside. They bring all the savory flavor without having to deal with greasing or flipping. Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake is perfect for a quick appetizer or small meal. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to make seafood without a mess.
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.

Cooking glazed carrots is quicker and easier when you toss them in the air fryer. They turn out perfectly tender with a nice glaze that’s just right. Making Air Fryer Glazed Carrots this way saves time and cleanup. It’s a simple and reliable way to get veggies on the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

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.

Baking in the air fryer really changes the game when it comes to dessert, especially with Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake. The texture is rich without the need for constant checking in the oven. It fits small servings well for quicker sweet fixes. No need for a big bake when this does the job hassle-free.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A plate of crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders next to a dipping bowl filled with creamy sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The air fryer makes chicken tenders crispy without the need for deep frying. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders come out golden and evenly cooked every time. It’s a great option for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Plus, there’s no babysitting the oven needed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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.

Small and convenient, Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins are made to impress without much effort. The air fryer helps crisp up the edges while keeping everything warm inside. It’s a good choice for game nights or casual gatherings. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

A hand picks a golden-brown, crispy fried ball from a bowl containing similar fried balls against a dark background.
Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For something with a bold kick, Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites are quick to put together and turn out golden without the grease. The air fryer ensures they stay crispy throughout. They’re great for sharing or munching alone without a lot of work. You save yourself the effort of preheating an oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

Air Fryer White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy air fryer white chicken chili, topped with avocado slices, cilantro, and sliced chili peppers.
Air Fryer White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

With Air Fryer White Chicken Chili, the air fryer speeds up the process and gives it a special touch. It’s comforting and hearty, with far less time standing over the stove. Everything comes together with less cleanup required. This is one of those recipes that’s great for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer White Chicken Chili

Air Fryer Cheesecake

A cheesecake on a cake stand.
Air Fryer Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Yes, cheesecake is possible in the air fryer, and Air Fryer Cheesecake makes dessert feel effortless. It cooks evenly with a velvety outcome that surprises every time. You no longer need to wait on a big oven or complicated baking setup. Small batches work perfectly, satisfying quick dessert needs.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesecake

Air Fryer Beef Pot Pie

A freshly baked pie with a golden crust, a slice being served, revealing a filling of mixed vegetables and meat. A sprig of rosemary is nearby.
Air Fryer Beef Pot Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Making Air Fryer Beef Pot Pie cuts down the time while still delivering a comforting meal. The air fryer gives it a perfectly crisp top layer, while everything inside stays warm and tender. It’s great for small servings and quick dinners. Oven space is no longer a concern here.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Pot Pie

Air Fryer Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Air Fryer Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookies in the air fryer? Yes, Air Fryer Lemon Cookies bake quicker, and each bite stays chewy with perfect flavor. Small-batch baking is a no-brainer with this approach. No oven preheating or guesswork required. It’s easy, quick, and effective when dessert cravings hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Cookies

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Close-up of cooked chicken thighs, seasoned with herbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, you get evenly cooked chicken without worrying about pans splattering. The skin crisps just right, making it hard to believe this isn’t deep-fried. It’s a quick option for any weeknight dinner or even meal prep. Air fryers make it easier without the fuss of the stove.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of honey walnut shrimp topped with green onions.
Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Shrimp in the air fryer is a whole new level with Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp. The shrimp cooks evenly, paired with that unique sweetness in less time than usual. Perfect for weeknights or quick between-meal snacks. This air fryer meal cuts out the unnecessary hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

Air Fryer Hash Browns

A plate with hash browns, eggs and avocado on a table.
Air Fryer Hash Browns. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast gets an upgrade with Air Fryer Hash Browns that come out perfectly crisp in less time. You don’t need a skillet or constant flipping to get these just right. The even texture from the air fryer is hard to beat. Plus, it’s much easier to clean than a griddle or pan.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hash Browns

Air Fryer Asparagus

Air fried asparagus with garlic and parmesan on a white plate.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Getting Air Fryer Asparagus crunchy yet tender just takes minimal effort here. The air fryer delivers even cooking that doesn’t overdo it. This method means no stovetop splatters or overcooked results. Serving dinner is faster and more manageable.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Pig Shots

Close-up of shrimp wrapped in bacon secured with toothpicks, on a parchment-lined surface, seasoned with spices.
Air Fryer Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Making Air Fryer Pig Shots felt almost too simple with this device. This dish comes out crispy and flavorful every time without much babysitting. It’s a great starter or snack option for laid-back moments. Preparing them in large or small amounts is convenient with the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pig Shots

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.

Burgers like Air Fryer Black Bean Burger cook much faster in this setup while still turning out moist on the inside. The texture and consistency stay on point without needing to grill or fry outside. This quick method is perfect for an easy dinner or lunch. Who knew a burger could be handled this fast?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

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.

Even French onion soup is air-fryer-friendly with Air Fryer French Onion Soup becoming a unique option. The topping gets broiled just right, and the soup heats evenly with less hassle. You don’t have to worry about it spilling over in a pan. It lets you focus more on other things instead of watching it cook.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Soup

Air Fryer Pizza

A pizza is being cooked in an air fryer.
Air Fryer Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

To make pizza your way, Air Fryer Pizza makes the process quick and without a messy oven. This works for smaller portions, with ingredients melting perfectly together. You can try all kinds of variations with less waiting. It’s a simple solution to quick pizza cravings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza

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.

If you’ve only tried eggplant one way, Air Fryer Eggplant offers something a bit different. Quick, simple, and just the right balance of texture. Cooking it here avoids the sogginess and keeps it consistent. Perfect for pairing as a veggie side or tossing in something creative.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Air Fryer Bagel Bites

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

Making a smaller batch is no big deal with Air Fryer Bagel Bites, which cook evenly and in less than expected time. Each one turns out with a great texture—no uneven temperatures here. Snacks come together so fast this way. For a quick bite, it really handles the work effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Close-up of several crispy, twisted strips of cooked bacon on a white surface.
Air Fryer Twisted Bacon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You save time and mess cooking Air Fryer Twisted Bacon this way while still getting that crunch with each piece. Clever twists mean more texture and easier prep. Using the air fryer eliminates grease splatters that stovetop cooking can bring. It’s designed with ease and consistency in mind.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Air Fryer Shrimp

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

Using an air fryer for shrimp, like with Air Fryer Shrimp, speeds up cooking and avoids overdoing it. The consistency ends up ideal, and it’s done in no time. Great for tossing into quick meals or appetizers. Cleanup feels way easier compared to other methods.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Air Fryer Homemade Fries

A serving of golden-brown french fries with a side of ketchup.
Air Fryer Homemade Fries. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

French fries get evenly crispy and quicker with Air Fryer Homemade Fries. There’s no need for deep frying or turning them constantly. It’s a great way to get snacks ready without much oil involved too. The air fryer helps you focus on other parts of the meal while it does the work.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Air Fryer Peach Cobbler

A slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Air Fryer Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Even dessert like Air Fryer Peach Cobbler fits into this device with no complicated process. The right balance of textures comes together without overbaking. It’s fast enough for a weeknight treat or something special. No waiting for large batches to finish slowly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peach Cobbler

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Close-up view of cooked bacon strips and fried eggs on a white plate, garnished with parsley.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bacon in the air fryer hits perfect crispness without the greasy mess like Crispy Air Fryer Bacon. It saves time, cooks evenly, and means no standing over a pan. The cleanup process is a lot quicker, too. Making breakfast (or brunch) is more manageable than ever with this method.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

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.

Chips in minutes with Air Fryer Tortilla Chips that are so easy to throw together. They come out crunchy and even without the need for layers of oil. Snacking gets simpler with this no-mess method. Perfect for pairing with dips or eating on their own, no oven time needed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole

A plate of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, with a fork and knife resting on the plate.
Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

With Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole, everything blends well and cooks just right without long wait times. The top gets a slight crisp while staying moist underneath. It handles smaller portions beautifully, making it perfect for busy nights. Pull it together faster and easier than the traditional way.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole

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.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *