Let’s Make Mom Smile With 29 Delicious Air Fryer Recipes

These 29 air fryer ideas aren’t about fancy presentations or big kitchen messes—they’re the kind of simple wins that somehow end up feeling thoughtful. When cleanup is low and flavor is high, it’s easier to focus on what matters. And what matters is making mom happy without overthinking everything.

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

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

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

Remember those frozen pizza rolls we loved as kids? Air Fryer Pizza Rolls bring that nostalgic feeling right back but make them even better. They are crispy on the outside and packed with delicious gooey goodness on the inside. Perfect for a quick snack or part of a party platter, these little bites will definitely earn a smile from Mom.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

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.

Mushrooms are already great, but Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms take it up a notch. Cooked to perfection with a hint of garlic, they make an excellent side dish or appetizer. The air fryer technique keeps them tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. They are so good, you might find yourself making them again and again.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Air Fryer Asparagus

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

If you’re trying to get more veggies into Mom’s diet, Air Fryer Asparagus is a great way to start. The air fryer gives these stalks the ideal texture—tender with a bit of crunch. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or incorporating them into a main meal, they’ll add a bit of freshness that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

A close-up image of three seasoned and grilled ears of corn arranged on a plate.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s nothing quite like Air Fryer Corn on the Cob for a quick side dish that’s packed with flavor. The air fryer cooks the corn kernels evenly, so each bite feels just right. It’s an ideal way to bring that backyard barbecue vibe to your home without needing to fire up the grill. This could become Mom’s new favorite way to enjoy corn.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Air Fryer Bagel Bites

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

Bagel bites are a fun snack, and Air Fryer Bagel Bites make them even more exciting. The air fryer turns them into bite-sized delights that are perfect for any occasion. They’re crispy, pleasing, and just the right size for munching on. Whether it’s a quick snack or part of party food, they’ll be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bagel 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.

French Onion Soup always has a way of comforting us, and Air Fryer French Onion Soup offers a modern twist. The air fryer helps create that delicious cheese and bread topping with ease. You’ll still get the rich, flavorful broth loaded with tender onions. It’s a cozy dish that brings some hearty warmth, perfect for making Mom smile.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Soup

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Some picking up a slice of cheese quesadilla.
Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re craving something cheesy, then Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla is a must-try. You’ll get a perfectly melted cheese filling with a crispy tortilla exterior. These are great for a quick lunch or snack, and you can pull them together in no time. They’re pleasing and fun to eat, making mealtime a little more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

A close-up of several pigs in a blanket, consisting of sausages wrapped in baked dough, topped with a light sprinkling of salt.
Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who can resist Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket ? These little bites are the definition of fun finger food. The air fryer crisps up the dough while keeping the sausages juicy. Great for parties or just a quick snack at home, these are always a hit. They’re simple to make but feel like a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

Air Fryer Shrimp

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

For a dish that feels special, Air Fryer Shrimp fits the bill nicely. The air fryer makes them golden and crispy, but still succulent inside. Perfect for a healthy lunch, dinner, or appetizer that feels restaurant-quality. Your Mom will love these tasty little morsels, and they might become a regular on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

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.

Eggplant gets a delicious makeover with Air Fryer Eggplant. This dish comes out perfectly tender with a wonderful texture. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables with a bit more excitement. Whether it’s served as a side or part of a main dish, making eggplant this way is sure to be a hit with Mom.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

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.

Lasagna might be a classic comfort food, but Easy Air Fryer Lasagna makes it quicker to enjoy. Layers of flavor come together beautifully, and the air fryer creates a perfectly bubbly top. It’s great for those busy nights when you still want something hearty. Mom will appreciate how easy it is to whip up this yummy meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

Air Fryer Tomatoes

Air fried tomatoes in an air fryer basket with fresh rosemary.
Air Fryer Tomatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements any meal. The air fryer brings out their natural sweetness and makes them a bit crispy around the edges. They can be used in a salad, on top of a pizza, or even as a standalone bite. This method might turn Mom into a tomato lover if she isn’t one already.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tomatoes

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.

Juicy inside, crispy outside, Air Fryer Pork Chops is perfect for a well-balanced meal. It’s ideal for those who love a bit of crunch but want something easy to make. Just pop them in after giving them a quick prep, and in no time, you’ll have a nice hearty meal. These chops are sure to bring smiles to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops

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.

For a fresh take on a snack classic, Air Fryer Tortilla Chips are definitely worth trying. Making them in the air fryer gives them a lovely crunch without the extra oil. They’re perfect for dipping into your favorite salsa or guacamole. It’s a snack that everyone will love, and Mom will appreciate the healthier twist too.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

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.

Try a different twist with Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich, turning a simple idea into something special. Cooking it this way delivers a crunchy outside and warm inside, making it more enjoyable. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it’s a fresher take on a classic. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

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

Make pizza night easy with Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza, crispy base and all your favorite toppings. It cooks quickly and evenly, giving you a perfect bite every time. No need to wait for delivery when you can whip this up in minutes. Perfect for a quick meal or snack, it’s simple and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

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.

Homemade fries are a favorite, and Air Fryer Homemade Fries give you that crispy texture we all love. You’ll get those golden brown edges without deep frying. Perfect as a side dish for burgers or chicken, or just as a pleasing snack on their own. Mom will love how easy and delicious homemade fries can be.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries

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.

For a healthy alternative to traditional burgers, Air Fryer Black Bean Burger is a great option. The air fryer helps them retain their shape and gives them a slight crisp. They’re hearty and fulfilling, making a great lunch or dinner choice. This dish will show Mom how tasty and easy a veggie burger can be.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

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.

Spice things up with Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites, bringing a kick with a gratifying crunch. These bites are perfect snacks for gatherings, providing just the right mix of heat and texture. Quick and fun to prepare, they will become your go-to party food. Unique and flavorful, they never fail to impress.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

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.

You can’t go wrong with Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms for a dish that’s just a little different. The air fryer gives these mushrooms a great texture and brings out their earthy flavor. Ideal as a hearty side dish or as a main course for the mushroom lovers. These mushrooms make every meal feel a bit more gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced, seasoned, roasted turkey breast on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air Fryer Turkey Breast makes a roast turkey achievable even on a busy weekday. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and moist. Perfect for sandwiches or a smaller roast dinner. Mom will be thankful for how easy it is to enjoy turkey without all the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

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

If your mom loves her veggies sweet and tasty, Air Fryer Glazed Carrots is the way to go. The air fryer brings out their natural sweetness and adds a slight crisp. Great as a side dish that feels like a treat. These carrots make a lovely addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

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.

Bring a bit of fun to the breakfast table with Air Fryer Twisted Bacon. Twisting the bacon helps it cook evenly and adds a bit of crunch. It’s a simple way to make bacon even more enjoyable. Great for breakfast or brunch, and Mom will love the fun twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Air Fryer Hash Browns

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

For a perfect breakfast side, Air Fryer Hash Browns offer that crispiness we all crave. They come out golden and delicious without all the extra oil. Great alongside eggs or a hearty breakfast spread. Your Mom will love how easy it is to enjoy restaurant-style hash browns at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hash Browns

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.

Say goodbye to greasy messes with Crispy Air Fryer Bacon. It comes out perfectly each time without the usual splatter and fuss. Quick, easy, and less cleanup, bacon breakfast is now stress-free. You get all the flavor with less mess.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

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

Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza is perfect for a quick and easy pizza fix. Using tortillas makes it super crispy while letting you add your favorite toppings. Ideal for a fast meal that’s still tasty. Mom will love how simple it is to whip up a delicious personalized pizza.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

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.

If your mom loves seafood, Crispy Air Fryer Cod is an excellent choice. The air fryer gives the cod a perfect crispy outside while keeping the fish flaky and tender inside. Great for a quick dinner that tastes restaurant-quality. This dish will show Mom how easy cooking fish can be.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Air fryer Vegan Ham

Vegan ham on a serving plate.
Air fryer Vegan Ham. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those looking for plant-based options, Air fryer Vegan Ham offers a striking resemblance to traditional ham. The air fryer helps create a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy. Perfect for sandwiches or a main course that’s both tasty and different.
Get the Recipe: Air fryer Vegan Ham

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.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a quick way to enjoy juicy chicken with a crispy skin. The air fryer gets the chicken thighs evenly cooked while keeping the meat tender. Great for any meal, and they’ll feel just as special as a more involved chicken dish. Mom will appreciate the ease and wonderful textures of this simple recipe.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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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