The 29 Air Fryer Recipes I Wish I’d Discovered Years Ago
Figuring out what to cook got a whole lot easier once I stopped overcomplicating it. These 29 air fryer recipes handle everything from snacks to full-on meals without much cleanup or second-guessing. I didn’t realize how much time I was wasting before. Now it’s all crisp edges and no stress.

Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

I stumbled upon a game-changer for cookie lovers. Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies are a revelation, offering that ideal balance of a soft center with a slight crispness on the outside. Imagine whipping up a batch of cookies without turning on your oven. These treats save you time and keep your kitchen cool.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies
Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Have you tried roasting potatoes to perfection without heating up your entire kitchen? That’s where Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes come in – they turn out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, just as you’d want. No more waiting for your oven to preheat for a simple side dish. Plus, they’re done in a fraction of the usual cooking time!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes
Air Fryer Shrimp

If you love seafood, you’ll appreciate how quickly shrimp can go from raw to perfectly cooked. In the world of air frying, Air Fryer Shrimp maintains its juicy interior while gaining a pleasing exterior texture. No more worrying about overcooking or drying out your shrimp. Give it a go for a quick yet impressive meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp
Air Fryer Asparagus

Looking for a healthier way to enjoy your greens? Air Fryer Asparagus achieves that desirable charred flavor without needing a grill. It’s a simple, no-mess method to cook asparagus to perfection. Air frying keeps it snappy and flavorful, a perfect complement to any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus
Air Fryer Bread Pudding

Dessert in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s a great idea. Air Fryer Bread Pudding comes out wonderfully moist and is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover bread. It’s a comforting sweet treat that doesn’t require a long bake time. You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins for a personal touch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bread Pudding
Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Transform the traditional family favorite into a quicker, crunchier experience with Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. It brings an amusing crispness to your green beans like never before. Say goodbye to the soggy casseroles of the past. This method promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole
Air Fryer French Onion Soup

Who knew that you could get that rich, caramelized flavor without stove-top simmering? Air Fryer French Onion Soup proves that a classic can be innovated with new cooking methods. This approach to French onion soup is a speedy alternative without sacrificing depth of flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy meal when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Soup
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Cheese lovers will rejoice at how Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks come out evenly melted inside with a perfectly golden outside. Say farewell to deep frying and the oils that come with it. Air frying your mozzarella sticks is a game changer for quick snacks or appetizers. And there’s no compromise on that pleasing crunch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

Baking cakes traditionally takes time, but Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake offers a quicker route to indulgence. The cake turns out rich and moist, with a texture that could rival any oven-baked version. It’s a unique way to whip up a dessert without heating your whole kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake
Air Fryer Broccoli Soup

On chilly days, nothing beats a warm bowl of soup. Air Fryer Broccoli Soup utilizes the air fryer for roasting broccoli, which intensifies its flavor. The result is a comforting, homely soup with a deep, vibrant taste. Plus, it’s a healthy choice that comes together faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli Soup
Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Bringing coastal flavors to your kitchen is easier than ever. Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake captures that authentic taste with less grease and no need for a fryer. The air fryer locks in the moisture, creating crab cakes that are tender on the inside, crispy on the outside. No more oil splatter, just pure enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake
Air Fryer Lemon Bars

For those who adore a tangy, citrus dessert, try this unexpected method. Air Fryer Lemon Bars achieve that pleasant contrast of a crisp base and a creamy, zingy topping. Your air fryer can handle desserts too, giving these lemon bars just the right texture. It’s a surprisingly quick way to create a classic sweet without turning on the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Bars
Air Fryer Homemade Fries

There’s something about homemade fries that restaurant versions just can’t replicate. With Air Fryer Homemade Fries, you get that homemade taste with less oil and no mess. They’re crispy, golden, and ready in minutes. It makes you wonder why you’d ever go back to traditional frying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries
Air fryer Vegan Ham

Plant-based eaters, take note – your festive meals just got a major upgrade. Air fryer Vegan Ham offers a meat-free alternative with all the flavors you want in a ham. It’s a simple, quick, and delicious way to prepare a centerpiece for any special meal. You won’t miss the oven or the meat in this innovative dish.
Get the Recipe: Air fryer Vegan Ham
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Spice up your appetizer game without the guilt. Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers come out toasty and flavorful, no deep-frying required. The air fryer ensures a crispy coat without the heavy feel of oil. They’re the perfect spicy bite-sized treat that’s both easy and quick to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Is a whole turkey too much for your needs? Air Fryer Turkey Breast is a great solution for smaller gatherings or everyday meals. It gives you juicy meat without taking up your oven for hours. The air fryer does the job efficiently, giving you that roasted flavor you crave. It’s the practical way to enjoy turkey without the fuss of traditional methods.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Air Fryer Lemon Cookies

When you have a craving for something sweet with a citrus hint, look no further. Air Fryer Lemon Cookies combine ease with flavor for a gratifying snack. They cook up fast, and you get that desirable chewy texture every time. These cookies are sure to be a hit for those who enjoy a pop of lemon in their sweets.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Cookies
Air Fryer Eggplant

If you’ve shied away from eggplant because of its prep time, you’ll be pleased with this alternative. Air Fryer Eggplant brings out the best in this versatile vegetable. It’s quick, and you’ll love the robust texture it takes on. It’s a perfect base for a variety of toppings, making it a versatile option for a nutritious meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant
Air Fryer Nut Roast

Vegetarians often look for hearty dishes that can stand in for meat – and here’s a prime candidate. Air Fryer Nut Roast offers a pleasing texture and flavor that’s often missing from plant-based entrees. It’s simple to prepare and doesn’t require long cooking times. This dish is great for anyone looking to add variety to their meat-free menu options.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nut Roast
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Forget about sautéing – there’s a new method in town for mushroom lovers. Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms come out succulent and full of flavor without being oily. You can have a tasty, garlicky side on your table in no time. Whether it’s for a steak side or a delicious topping, these mushrooms will not disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
Air Fryer Tomatoes

Have you ever tried roasted tomatoes that are bursting with flavor? Air Fryer Tomatoes does just that – and quickly too. They pair perfectly with a variety of dishes, adding a juicy depth of flavor. The air fryer method brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully. It’s a straightforward yet tasty way to spice up your meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tomatoes
Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole

Casseroles are a comfort food staple, and here’s a cheesy twist. Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole is a rich, pleasing dish that’s ideal for any comfort meal. You get all the creamy goodness without heating up your entire kitchen. The air fryer makes it possible to enjoy this homestyle favorite more often, with less effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole
Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

Put an end to dry, overcooked fish with a fresh approach. Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl brings you perfectly flaky salmon every time. It’s a complete meal that’s quick and full of flavor. You don’t need to be a pro to cook fish like one, and this dish proves it.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

Craving pizza but not the wait? Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza to the rescue! It cooks up faster than delivery and you can customize the toppings to your taste. It’s so quick and easy, it will become your go-to for pizza night. The air fryer gives you that crisp crust that’s so essential for a great pizza experience.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza
Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

Lasagna doesn’t always have to be a weekend project. Easy Air Fryer Lasagna is here to change your mind. You can have layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce ready in a portion of the traditional time. This dish allows you to enjoy a classic with none of the usual waiting. Try it when you want a hearty meal but don’t have the hours to spare.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna
Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms

Large, meaty portobello mushrooms can become the star of any dish. Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms highlights their robust flavor with a perfect texture. It’s a vegan-friendly option that’s worthwhile and simple to prepare. If you’re looking for a substantial ingredient that’s adaptable to many recipes, these mushrooms fit the bill.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms
Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Fish doesn’t get easier or more foolproof than this. Crispy Air Fryer Cod has a knack for being flaky and tender on the inside with a light crispiness on the outside. You can forget pan-frying and the hassle that comes with it. Serve this up for a dinner that feels fancy but requires minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

There’s a sweet side to vegetables that you may be missing out on. Air Fryer Glazed Carrots are a shining example, bringing out their natural sugars and making for a side that’s both sweet and tasty They’re a breeze to prepare and can brighten up any meal. Plus, kids might just find them more tempting than the usual steamed fare.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes are a classic, but they can take forever in the oven. With Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes, you get the same comforting taste in less time. These come out with a crispy skin and a soft, fluffy inside every time. Whether as a side or the main event, they’re versatile and always pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet 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.
