What Can Be Cooked with Air Fryer 15 Delicious Ideas

An air fryer can cook a surprisingly wide variety of delicious, crispy foods with little to no oil, making it a must-have for healthy and convenient meals. From golden french fries and juicy chicken wings to roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, and even desserts like churros, this versatile appliance handles everything from appetizers to mains and sweets effortlessly.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers cook faster: Achieve crispy results in less time than conventional ovens.
• Versatile cooking options: Perfect for fries, meats, veggies, and even baked desserts.
• Healthier meals made easy: Use up to 80% less oil for guilt-free frying.
• Reheat leftovers perfectly: Restore crispiness to pizza, fries, and more without sogginess.
• Try unexpected recipes: Make hard-boiled eggs, roasted nuts, or even cakes effortlessly.
• Easy cleanup: Non-stick baskets simplify post-cooking maintenance and dishwashing.

What Can Be Cooked with Air Fryer? 15 Delicious Ideas

Let me share a little kitchen secret with you. When I first got my air fryer, I thought it was just a fancy way to reheat frozen fries. Boy, was I wrong. Within a week, I found myself using it almost daily—sometimes twice—for everything from crispy chicken to roasted vegetables. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of countertop appliances: compact, powerful, and surprisingly versatile.

If you’ve been wondering, “What can be cooked with air fryer?” you’re not alone. This little machine has taken kitchens by storm, and for good reason. It uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly, giving you that golden, crispy finish we all love—without drowning everything in oil. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or someone who just hates scrubbing greasy pans, the air fryer might just become your new best friend. And the best part? You can cook so much more than you think.

1. Classic Comfort Foods (That Taste Just Like Deep-Fried)

Let’s start with the obvious—but also the most satisfying. The air fryer shines when it comes to recreating deep-fried favorites with a fraction of the oil. No more guilt, no more mess, and honestly, no real loss in flavor or texture.

French Fries & Tater Tots

Yes, you can make crispy, golden fries in the air fryer. And they come out better than most fast-food versions. The trick? A light spray of oil (just 1 tsp per cup of potatoes) and a single layer so they crisp evenly. I use Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into matchsticks, toss them with a pinch of salt, garlic powder, and paprika, then air fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through. The result? Crispy outside, fluffy inside.

Pro tip: Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 20 minutes first to remove excess starch. This helps them crisp up instead of steam.

Chicken Wings

Game day? Movie night? Chicken wings are a must. In the air fryer, they’re ready in under 25 minutes and come out so crispy, you’d swear they were deep-fried. I season mine with a dry rub of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Air fry at 400°F for 20 minutes, flip, then 5 more minutes. Toss in buffalo sauce or honey garlic glaze right after.

Bonus: No splattering oil on your stovetop. Just wipe down the basket and you’re done.

Onion Rings & Mozzarella Sticks

These are the ultimate guilty pleasures—and yes, they work beautifully in the air fryer. For onion rings, I coat them in panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little cornstarch for extra crunch. Lightly spray with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. They come out golden and crisp, with none of the greasy aftertaste.

Mozzarella sticks? Same idea. Use frozen ones or make your own (just freeze the sticks first to prevent cheese leakage). Air fry at 390°F for 6–8 minutes. Serve with marinara for dipping. The cheese stays molten inside, the outside is crunchy—perfection.

Fish and Chips

Cod or tilapia coated in a light beer batter (or panko for a gluten-free option) turns into golden, flaky fish in the air fryer. I use a mix of panko, flour, salt, and a splash of club soda for a light coating. Spray with oil, air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes. Pair with air-fried fries and tartar sauce. It’s like a Friday night at the pub—without leaving your kitchen.

2. Healthy & Nutrient-Packed Meals (Yes, Really)

One of the biggest myths about air fryers is that they’re only for junk food. Not true. They’re actually a fantastic tool for cooking healthy, nutrient-dense meals that taste amazing.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting veggies in the oven takes 30+ minutes. In the air fryer? 12–15 minutes max. And they come out with that perfect char and caramelization. I love tossing broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice. Air fry at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking halfway.

Try this combo: cauliflower, sweet potato, and red onion. Add a sprinkle of rosemary and a drizzle of tahini after cooking. It’s a complete, satisfying side dish—or even a light meal.

Salmon & Other Fish

Salmon fillets cook beautifully in the air fryer. No need to oil the skin—just season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and a little dill. Air fry at 390°F for 10–12 minutes. The skin gets crispy, the inside stays tender and flaky. I often pair it with a side of asparagus (air-fried for 8 minutes with olive oil and lemon).

Pro tip: Place a slice of lemon under the fillet to prevent sticking and add flavor.

Eggs and Veggie Frittatas

Yes, you can even cook eggs! For a quick frittata, whisk eggs with diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, and feta. Pour into a small oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer basket (I use a 6-inch cake pan). Air fry at 320°F for 12–14 minutes. It’s fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or meal prep.

You can also make hard-boiled eggs in the air fryer—just place eggs in the basket, air fry at 270°F for 15 minutes, then transfer to ice water. Easy peel, perfect texture.

Chicken Breast & Tofu

Chicken breast can be dry and boring—but not in the air fryer. Marinate it in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 15 minutes, then air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes. Flip halfway. The result? Juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

For plant-based eaters, tofu is a game-changer. Press firm tofu for 20 minutes to remove moisture, then cut into cubes. Toss with soy sauce, cornstarch, and smoked paprika. Air fry at 390°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway. It becomes golden and slightly chewy—perfect for stir-fries or grain bowls.

3. Snacks, Appetizers & Party Foods

Hosting a party or just craving a snack? The air fryer is your secret weapon for quick, crowd-pleasing bites. No deep fryer, no mess, no stress.

Stuffed Jalapeños & Mushrooms

These are always a hit. For stuffed jalapeños, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a little bacon or scallions. Cut jalapeños in half, remove seeds, and fill with the mixture. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. They come out warm, gooey, and just spicy enough.

For stuffed mushrooms, use portobello caps or button mushrooms. Fill with a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Air fry at 380°F for 10 minutes. Serve warm with a side of ranch or marinara.

Spring Rolls & Dumplings

Frozen spring rolls or dumplings? Air fry them instead of deep-frying. They come out crisp and golden with no oil needed. Just place in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway. Serve with soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.

For a homemade twist, wrap tofu or shrimp in rice paper, brush with a little sesame oil, and air fry for 6–8 minutes. They’re light, flavorful, and perfect for appetizers.

Nachos & Loaded Fries

Yes, you can make nachos in the air fryer! Layer tortilla chips with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted. Top with avocado, sour cream, and jalapeños. It’s a quick, shareable snack.

For loaded fries, use frozen wedges or sweet potato fries. Top with chili, cheese, and green onions. Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. It’s like a mini nacho platter—perfect for game night.

4. Baking & Desserts (Yes, You Can Bake in an Air Fryer!)

Most people don’t realize that air fryers can bake. And they do it well. From cookies to brownies, the air fryer delivers consistent results—faster than a regular oven.

Cookies & Brownies

Make a small batch of chocolate chip cookies in under 15 minutes. Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto parchment paper in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 320°F for 8–10 minutes. They come out soft in the center, slightly crisp on the edges. Perfect with a glass of milk.

For brownies, use a small 6-inch pan or silicone mold. Pour in brownie batter (homemade or boxed), air fry at 320°F for 12–15 minutes. Test with a toothpick—moist crumbs mean it’s done. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.

Cinnamon Rolls & Monkey Bread

Store-bought cinnamon rolls? Air fry them. They puff up beautifully and cook in 10–12 minutes at 350°F. Drizzle with icing while warm. It’s a cozy weekend treat with minimal effort.

Monkey bread is even better. Toss biscuit pieces in cinnamon sugar, layer in a cake pan, pour melted butter over them, and air fry at 350°F for 12–15 minutes. Pull apart the warm, gooey pieces—it’s like dessert fondue.

Fruit Crisps & Baked Apples

For a healthy dessert, try a fruit crisp. Mix sliced apples or peaches with a little sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Top with oats, flour, butter, and brown sugar. Air fry at 350°F for 15–18 minutes. Serve with vanilla yogurt or ice cream.

Baked apples? Core apples, fill with oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a dab of butter. Air fry at 350°F for 12–15 minutes. They’re tender, fragrant, and feel indulgent without being heavy.

5. Reheating & Leftovers (The Underrated Superpower)

Here’s a truth many don’t talk about: the air fryer is *the best* way to reheat food. Microwaves turn leftovers soggy. Ovens take too long. The air fryer brings back that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen crispness.

Pizza & Sandwiches

Reheat pizza slices at 350°F for 3–5 minutes. The crust gets crisp, the cheese melts, and it tastes just like it did the night before. No more rubbery, microwaved slices.

For grilled cheese or paninis, air fry at 360°F for 4–6 minutes. The bread toasts beautifully, and the inside stays warm and gooey.

Fried Chicken & Burgers

Leftover fried chicken? Air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes. The skin crisps up again, and the meat stays juicy. Same with burgers—just place in the basket, air fry for 4–5 minutes, and you’re good to go.

Fries, Nuggets & More

Reheat frozen or leftover fries, chicken nuggets, or mozzarella sticks at 375°F for 5–7 minutes. They come out just as crispy as the first time. I’ve even reheated falafel and empanadas—works like a charm.

Tips for Best Reheating Results

• Use a single layer—no stacking.
• Lightly spray or brush with oil for extra crispness.
• Shake or flip halfway through for even heating.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket—leave space for air circulation.

6. Unexpected & Creative Air Fryer Recipes

Once you master the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer can handle some surprising dishes that you might not expect.

Hard-Boiled Eggs & Deviled Eggs

As mentioned earlier, hard-boiled eggs are a breeze. For deviled eggs, hard-boil, peel, slice in half, and remove yolks. Mix yolks with mayo, mustard, relish, and paprika. Pipe back into whites. Chill and serve. The air fryer makes the prep faster.

Baked Potatoes & Sweet Potatoes

Prick potatoes, rub with olive oil and salt, and air fry at 390°F for 35–40 minutes (flip halfway). They come out perfectly fluffy inside, slightly crisp outside. Top with sour cream, chives, or chili.

Sweet potatoes take about 30 minutes at the same temp. Slice open, add butter, cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Comfort food at its finest.

Corn on the Cob

No boiling water needed. Husk the corn, place in the air fryer, and cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes. The kernels stay juicy, and the outside gets a light char. Brush with butter and sprinkle with chili powder or Parmesan.

Garlic Bread & Garlic Knots

Butter a baguette with garlic butter, top with Parmesan, and air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes. Crispy, buttery, and ready in minutes. Same with frozen garlic knots—just 8 minutes at 380°F.

Table: Air Fryer Cooking Times & Temperatures (Quick Reference)

Food	Temperature (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
French Fries	400	15–18	Shake halfway
Chicken Wings	400	20–25	Flip halfway
Salmon Fillet	390	10–12	Skin down first
Roasted Broccoli	375	12–15	Toss with oil
Chocolate Chip Cookies	320	8–10	Use parchment
Reheated Pizza	350	3–5	Single layer
Baked Potato	390	35–40	Flip halfway
Corn on the Cob	390	10–12	No husk

Remember: these are starting points. Every air fryer varies slightly, so keep an eye on your food the first few times. Adjust time or temp as needed.

So, what can be cooked with air fryer? Honestly, the list is only limited by your imagination. From crispy snacks to healthy mains, desserts to leftovers, this little machine does it all. It’s fast, easy, and delivers results that rival traditional cooking methods—often with less oil, less mess, and less time.

I used to think my air fryer was just a novelty. Now, it’s one of the most used appliances in my kitchen. Whether I’m cooking for one or feeding a crowd, I know I can rely on it to deliver flavor, texture, and convenience. And the best part? It doesn’t heat up my whole kitchen like the oven does. In summer, that’s a game-changer.

If you’re on the fence about using your air fryer more—or wondering if it’s worth buying one—my advice is simple: start small. Try a batch of fries. Roast some veggies. Reheat last night’s pizza. You’ll quickly discover just how much this little appliance can do. And before you know it, you’ll be asking yourself, “What *can’t* I cook in the air fryer?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What can be cooked with an air fryer besides frozen foods?

Beyond frozen snacks, you can cook fresh meats, roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, and even desserts like cookies or brownies. The air fryer’s versatility makes it perfect for everything from crispy chicken to fluffy pancakes. Its rapid air circulation ensures even cooking without excess oil.

Can you cook raw meat in an air fryer?

Yes, raw meats like chicken breasts, steak, pork chops, and salmon cook beautifully in an air fryer. The high-heat circulation sears the outside while keeping the inside juicy—just season and cook for 12–20 minutes depending on thickness.

What can be cooked with air fryer for quick weeknight dinners?

Try air-fried garlic butter shrimp, stuffed bell peppers, or honey-glazed chicken thighs—all ready in 20 minutes or less. The air fryer’s speed and minimal preheat time make it ideal for busy evenings.

Can I bake or reheat leftovers in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Bake muffins, reheat pizza, or revive crispy fried chicken with better results than a microwave. The air fryer restores crunch to leftovers while evenly warming the center.

What vegetables can be cooked with an air fryer?

Almost any veggie—try Brussels sprouts, sweet potato fries, zucchini slices, or cauliflower “wings.” Toss with oil and seasonings for crispy, caramelized results in 10–15 minutes.

Can you cook desserts in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fryers can bake small batches of cookies, cinnamon rolls, or even molten lava cakes. Use oven-safe ramekins or parchment liners to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.