Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook by delivering crispy, golden results with a fraction of the oil and mess of traditional frying. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to make everything from snacks and appetizers to full dinners with minimal cleanup and hands-on time. Whether you’re new to air frying or you already swear by your air fryer, this collection of 16 recipes includes tried-and-true favorites you’ll come back to again and again. These dishes are quick, flavorful, and designed to fit perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or texture.
1. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these air fryer chicken wings are a game changer for wing lovers. You get all the crunch of deep-fried wings without the oil and splatter. Tossed in your choice of buffalo, barbecue, or garlic Parmesan sauce, they make the perfect appetizer or dinner when paired with a side of fries or veggies. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Chicken Wings
2. Air Fryer French Fries
These fries come out golden and crispy with just a light mist of oil, making them a healthier and tastier alternative to frozen or deep-fried versions. You can season them however you like—classic sea salt, garlic Parmesan, or spicy Cajun. They cook quickly and evenly, making them a perfect side dish or snack that rivals your favorite fast food. Get the recipe – Air Fryer French Fries
3. Air Fryer Salmon
Perfectly cooked salmon is easy to achieve with the air fryer. The outside gets slightly crisp while the inside stays tender and flaky. Add a simple glaze of honey, mustard, or lemon garlic butter for extra flavor. It’s a fast, healthy dinner option that’s perfect over rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Salmon
4. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
These gooey, crunchy snacks are ideal for parties, movie nights, or late-night cravings. Breaded mozzarella sticks become golden and melty in minutes with no greasy mess. Serve them with warm marinara sauce for dipping, and they’ll disappear in no time. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
5. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Whether you’re cooking for kids or just craving comfort food, these chicken tenders are a hit. Lightly breaded and seasoned, they turn out crispy without needing a deep fryer. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a fast, family-friendly meal everyone will love. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
6. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These roasted Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender in the center. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and a splash of balsamic glaze or Parmesan cheese for added flavor. They’re an easy way to get your greens in while actually enjoying them. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
7. Air Fryer Meatballs
Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, these air fryer meatballs cook in less than 15 minutes and develop a nice crust on the outside without drying out. Use them in pasta, sandwiches, or serve as appetizers with a dipping sauce. They’re perfect for meal prep and freeze well for future use. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Meatballs
8. Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Forget turning on the oven—air fryer baked potatoes come out perfectly fluffy on the inside with crispy skins. Rub them with oil and salt, and in under 40 minutes you’ve got a side dish that works with just about anything from steak to salads or chili. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
9. Air Fryer Shrimp
Quick-cooking and flavorful, shrimp are ideal for air frying. With just a few spices and a short cook time, you’ll have juicy, tender shrimp that pair beautifully with rice, tacos, or pasta. Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of garlic butter to elevate the flavor. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Shrimp
10. Air Fryer Donuts
Craving something sweet? These air fryer donuts are made with biscuit dough and require no frying oil. Light, fluffy, and coated in cinnamon sugar or glaze, they’re a fun and fast treat you can whip up with pantry staples. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Donuts
11. Air Fryer Steak Bites
These steak bites are a savory, high-protein dinner option that comes together quickly. Cubes of steak cook to perfection in the air fryer and can be seasoned simply with garlic and herbs or given a bold twist with Cajun or chili spices. Pair with veggies or rice for a filling meal. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Steak Bites
12. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
For a lighter twist on fries, zucchini is the perfect alternative. Breaded in Parmesan and breadcrumbs, these air-fried zucchini fries are crispy and satisfying without being heavy. Serve with marinara or ranch for dipping. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
13. Air Fryer Pork Chops
Thick-cut pork chops come out juicy and flavorful with a crisp, seasoned crust. You can marinate them beforehand or use a dry rub depending on your taste. They cook quickly and pair well with everything from roasted vegetables to applesauce. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Pork Chops
14. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
These naturally sweet fries get beautifully crispy without any deep-frying. Simply season with paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon sugar for a twist. They’re a great side for burgers or a tasty snack on their own. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
15. Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
This lighter version of a classic Italian dish delivers crispy eggplant slices topped with marinara and mozzarella—all without the need for heavy oil. It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that’s comforting and satisfying without the guilt. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
16. Air Fryer Breakfast Burritos
Meal prep just got easier with these air fryer breakfast burritos. Stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or veggies, they get a crispy golden finish in the air fryer. Freeze extras for a grab-and-go breakfast any day of the week. Get the recipe – Air Fryer Breakfast Burritos
The air fryer is more than a trend—it’s a dependable tool for creating delicious, healthier meals with less time and effort. These 16 recipes are easy to make, family-friendly, and versatile enough to fit into any weekly meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, you’ll find yourself making these dishes on repeat. Keep these recipes bookmarked—you’ll be reaching for them often.
