I Was Over the Oven and Turned to 29 Air Fryer Recipes Instead

Standing near a hot oven feels like a workout no one asked for. These 29 air fryer recipes stepped in at just the right time and gave the oven a break it clearly needed. The kitchen stayed cooler, cooking felt easier, and cleanup wasn’t a dramatic event. Even better, the food actually got eaten without anyone asking, “What is this supposed to be?”

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.

Air Fryer Asparagus

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

Light, crispy veggies can have a whole new depth of flavor when cooked differently. Air Fryer Asparagus turns into a perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s simple yet quick, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something healthy but not boring. You’ll appreciate having this when you want a fresh option without using the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Shrimp

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

Seafood changes the game when it’s cooked in creative ways. Air Fryer Shrimp comes out tender but with a crisp you wouldn’t expect. It’s an easy way to turn something basic into a quick protein-packed option. Even when you’re in a rush or not up for much cooking, these are an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

A close-up of a chocolate frosted cupcake with swirl icing on a white surface, reminiscent of Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies and surrounded by crumbs.
Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You don’t always need an oven for indulgent treats. Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies come out rich, soft, and perfect for dessert anytime. It’s a smarter way to make cookies without the time and heat involved in traditional baking. Perfect for those who love sweet fixes without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

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.

Casseroles don’t need to be a heavy, time-consuming task anymore. Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole shows how you can pack layers of flavor much faster. This air fryer hack gives you that creamy, warm meal without heating the entire kitchen. It’s perfect for a family dinner or leftovers, quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crack Chicken Casserole

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.

Bite-sized snacks can become even more exciting with a different method of cooking. Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites bring a pop of crispy coating and flavorful filling. They’re great for parties without turning on your oven or oil fryer. When you want an appetizer without stressing, this changes everything.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

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.

Soup becomes approachable even when you skip the stove. Air Fryer French Onion Soup eliminates long stove time but still packs rich, bold layers. The air fryer transforms how the cheese and bread come together in the topping. On chilly days or cozy meal nights, this soup makes the process so much simpler.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Soup

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.

Chicken isn’t just for ovens or frying pans when other options exist. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs come out with a crunch you’ll notice right away. The consistent results are why so many people switch over to this technique for poultry. It’s hard to beat a flavorful, quick protein that feels just perfect.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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.

Traditional dishes get an upgrade when less oil and effort are involved. Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake skips frying but still keeps its signature crispy edges. It’s still as flavorful as you’d expect and makes seafood night simple. If you love crab cakes but not the mess, this method works every time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Air Fryer Broccoli Soup

Bowl of green soup with croutons, shredded cheese, a mint leaf, and a swirl of olive oil on top.
Air Fryer Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy soups don’t require hours of prepping and stove-watching. Air Fryer Broccoli Soup proves this by bringing that warm, comforting bowl to you while saving time. The method here highlights the unique taste of broccoli and turns it into something hearty. A quick but satisfying way to enjoy a cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli Soup

Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

A plate with a biscuit topped with creamy sausage gravy, accompanied by a fork and knife.
Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Breakfast casseroles feel lighter and quicker this way. Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole makes for a hearty, filling option without the oven. It’s ideal for mornings when you need to whip up something family-friendly fast. This cooking process simplifies a dish that’s usually a good bit of work.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Air Fryer Lemon Cookies

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

Small sweet snacks don’t always need baking trays and preheating times. Air Fryer Lemon Cookies offer a bright and unique twist to quick desserts. They turn out fresh with just the right amount of softness you expect in cookies. A simple treat when you’re craving something easy to share or enjoy on your own.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Cookies

Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole

A close-up of a baking dish filled with breaded, cheese-covered chicken pieces garnished with chopped herbs, reminiscent of an elevated air fryer tater tot casserole.
Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turning a classic dish into an easier option changes how quickly you get to enjoy it. Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole comes together with no fuss, saving time and energy. It’s as comforting as the original with a quicker cooking time that works for any busy night. Perfect when you want something hearty without the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole

Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A close up of some crinkle cookies.
Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookies with that iconic cracked top can be made fast without a baking sheet. Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy, and ready in less time. You won’t lose any of the rich flavor by skipping the oven. Ideal for baking lovers looking to save time but still enjoy sweet treats fresh at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Air Fryer French Toast Casserole

A dish of French toast with pecans and powdered sugar.
Air Fryer French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast can feel complete even with less time and tools. Air Fryer French Toast Casserole keeps the classic warm flavors while simplifying the steps. This makes it easy to share with family while letting you avoid the stovetop entirely. It’s a go-to option for special mornings or lazy brunches alike.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Toast Casserole

Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

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

Quick, personal pizzas are a win when you don’t have endless prep time. Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza gets crispy edges and melty toppings in no time. The air fryer’s speed turns this into a perfect solution for either individual meals or shared snacks. It’s proof you can enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Two stuffed peppers in a bowl with melted cheese on top.
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stuffed dishes don’t have to include long oven bakes. Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers achieve the perfect balance of hearty filling and well-cooked veggies. This method cuts down on waiting time without losing the cozy, comforting taste that’s expected from stuffed peppers. A solid win for dinner or meal prep nights.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole

Baked pasta in a white dish, topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with parsley.
Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Effortless comfort food becomes possible with a few changes in the way it’s cooked. Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole fits all the classic flavors but cuts down on the tedious oven work. It’s rich, warm, and ready faster than its traditional counterpart. Mealtime feels easier when this recipe is part of your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole

Air Fryer Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

A slice of cheesy casserole with ground meat is being lifted from a baking dish, topped with chopped green onions.
Air Fryer Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tater tots for breakfast have never been easier to pull together. Air Fryer Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole combines everything you’d expect in a way that feels fresh and quick. This method transforms what could be a long breakfast bake into something doable fast. It’s practical and feels like a perfect, hearty option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

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.

Cakes often feel time-consuming, but this changes things. Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake comes out with great texture and distinct flavor without the long bake. It’s ideal for dessert nights when the oven feels like too much effort but you still want a standout dessert. This brings cake dreams into weeknight reality.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

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 dishes with that perfect mix of crispy and glazed goodness don’t need frying. Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp skips the mess while keeping all the flavor. The combination of textures is impressive, and you’ll find this easier to pull together than you might think. A quicker, air-fried option that’s worth using again.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

A white dish with green bean casserole in it.
Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic side dishes often feel attached to major oven prep, but they don’t have to. Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole works well without the traditional slow-cooking method. It’s a fresh way to make a dish that feels timeless without overthinking the process. Holiday meals or weeknight sides become easier with this approach.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick veggie sides can feel upgraded when cooked this way. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes come out with a texture that’s hard not to appreciate. It’s a fast, simple way to include something nutritious that doesn’t require a full oven preheat. Perfect for mixing into meals or as a base for something creative.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Air Fryer Egg Casserole

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

Breakfast is less effort when dishes like casseroles get faster cooking methods. Air Fryer Egg Casserole keeps the appeal of a warm, protein-packed dish without standing at the oven. The results are consistent and cut down on the hassle that can come with this classic breakfast option. Great when mornings call for ease.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Casserole

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges in a bowl.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wedges often shine best when cooked simply. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges bring crisp outsides and tender insides in less time. The texture is just right for dipping or as a quick side, all without the extra oil. An easy go-to when you’re looking for a straightforward option beyond basic fries.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Drumsticks don’t need ovens or grills to come out cooked just right. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks manage incredible flavor and texture while avoiding long cooking times. The method enhances the familiar results you love in a way that saves time. Perfect for easy dinners or quick meals that don’t sacrifice anything.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

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.

Fish dishes can sometimes feel intimidating, but this simplifies everything. Crispy Air Fryer Cod gives you consistent crispiness without deep-frying or pan-frying challenges. It’s a healthier, quicker way to enjoy seafood any day of the week. Whether it’s for a main meal or tacos, this makes fish easy and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Air Fryer Tuna Casserole

A close-up of a baked dish topped with golden bread crumbs and chopped chives.
Air Fryer Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Even old-school dishes benefit from quicker methods. Air Fryer Tuna Casserole brings creamy, warm layers of flavor without the traditional long oven bake. It’s surprising just how well this method works for such a classic comfort food. When you want something familiar but quicker, this casserole makes so much sense.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Casserole

Air Fryer Bread Pudding

A close-up of bread pudding topped with creamy vanilla sauce in a white baking dish. The pudding features toasted bread pieces and visible raisins.
Air Fryer Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Desserts don’t need to feel like a multi-step oven project. Air Fryer Bread Pudding turns day-old bread into something warm and classic in less time. It’s an easy way to create a dessert with that homemade feel but minimal prep or fuss. Perfect for satisfying those dessert cravings quickly at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bread Pudding

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.

Potato skins are always pleasing, especially when made faster. Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins deliver crispy edges and a flavorful topping without long baking times. This air fryer version feels quicker but still just as enjoyable during snacks or game days. When you want a crowd-pleaser with less mess, this fits perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

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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