What Can I Make With an Air Fryer 10 Delicious Ideas

Discover 10 mouthwatering dishes you can easily make with an air fryer—from crispy wings to decadent desserts. This versatile appliance delivers golden, flavorful results with less oil, perfect for quick weeknight meals or impressive snacks. Whether you’re craving savory or sweet, your air fryer is the ultimate kitchen multitasker.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers cook faster: Achieve crispy results in half the time of conventional ovens.
• Healthier meals made easy: Use little to no oil for guilt-free fried favorites.
• Versatile cooking options: Bake, roast, grill, or reheat with one compact appliance.
• Perfect for leftovers: Revive soggy fries and pizza with renewed crispiness.
• Simple cleanup: Non-stick baskets make post-cooking cleanup quick and hassle-free.
• Endless recipe potential: From meats to desserts, air fryers handle a wide variety.

What Can I Make With an Air Fryer 10 Delicious Ideas

When it comes to modern kitchen appliances, the air fryer has rapidly become a household favorite. Compact, efficient, and incredibly versatile, this countertop gadget uses rapid air circulation to cook food with up to 80% less oil than traditional deep frying. But if you’re new to air frying or simply wondering, “What can I make with an air fryer?”—you’re in the right place. From crispy appetizers to hearty mains, desserts, and even reheating leftovers, the air fryer is capable of far more than just “frying.”

Gone are the days when air fryers were seen as single-purpose tools. Today, they’re celebrated for their ability to deliver golden, crunchy textures with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or a culinary experimenter, the air fryer adapts to your lifestyle. With the right techniques, you can prepare meals that are not only delicious but also nutritious and time-efficient. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 delicious ideas that showcase the full potential of your air fryer—proving that this appliance is a true kitchen powerhouse. So, dust off your air fryer, preheat it, and get ready to discover a world of flavor, texture, and convenience.

1. Crispy and Healthy Appetizers and Snacks

One of the most popular uses for an air fryer is creating crispy, golden appetizers and snacks without the guilt of deep frying. The air fryer excels at delivering that satisfying crunch while using minimal oil—often just a light spritz or 1–2 teaspoons. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a late-night bite, these recipes are quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing.

Classic Air Fryer French Fries

Who doesn’t love a plate of crispy fries? The air fryer makes it simple. Start with russet or Yukon Gold potatoes—peeled or unpeeled, your choice. Cut them into even 1/2-inch sticks, soak in cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry thoroughly. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary work well). Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The result? Golden, crunchy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside fries with 80% less fat than deep-fried versions.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, lightly spray the fries with oil during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

These cheesy, melty delights are a hit with kids and adults alike. Use store-bought or homemade mozzarella sticks (cut mozzarella into 1-inch cubes, coat in flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs). Freeze for 20 minutes to prevent melting too quickly. Then, spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Bonus Idea: Try jalapeño poppers—stuff halved jalapeños with cream cheese and cheddar, coat with breadcrumbs, and air fry at 380°F for 10 minutes.

Roasted Chickpeas (Crunchy Snack)

For a high-protein, low-fat snack, roasted chickpeas are a game-changer. Drain and dry a can of chickpeas (or cook your own), then toss with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of sea salt. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes. The result is a crunchy, addictive snack that rivals potato chips—perfect for movie nights or on-the-go munching.

Flavor Variations: Try garlic parmesan, curry, or cinnamon-sugar for a sweet twist.

Air Fryer Onion Rings

Skip the deep fryer and make onion rings in the air fryer instead. Slice onions into rings, coat in a seasoned flour mixture, dip in buttermilk or egg wash, then coat with panko. Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. Serve with ranch or a spicy aioli. The texture is remarkably close to deep-fried, with far fewer calories.

2. Hearty and Satisfying Main Dishes

The air fryer isn’t just for snacks—it’s a full-fledged cooking appliance capable of handling entire main courses. From juicy meats to plant-based proteins, the air fryer delivers even browning, crispy exteriors, and tender interiors. Plus, cleanup is a breeze compared to stovetop or oven cooking.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are a favorite for air frying because they stay juicy even with high heat. Marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, then place skin-side down in the basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flip, and cook another 10–15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin turns beautifully crisp, and the meat stays succulent.

Tip: For extra flavor, brush with honey or BBQ sauce during the last 3 minutes.

Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

Salmon cooks beautifully in the air fryer, retaining moisture and developing a light crust. Pat salmon fillets dry, season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and a touch of dill. Place skin-side down (if skin is on) and air fry at 375°F for 9–12 minutes, depending on thickness. The result is flaky, flavorful salmon with a slightly crisp top—ideal for weeknight dinners.

Pairing Ideas: Serve with air fryer asparagus or roasted broccoli for a complete meal.

Air Fryer Burgers

Yes, you can make burgers in your air fryer! Form 1/4- to 1/3-pound beef patties (or use turkey, chicken, or plant-based options). Season lightly and place in the basket—don’t overcrowd. Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flip halfway, and add cheese during the last minute if desired. Serve on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.

Pro Tip: For juicier burgers, mix in a bit of Worcestershire sauce or breadcrumbs into the meat before shaping.

Vegetarian Air Fryer Tofu

Tofu lovers, rejoice! Press firm tofu for 30 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into cubes or slices. Toss with soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic powder, and a splash of sesame oil. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. The result is crispy, golden tofu with a chewy interior—perfect for stir-fries, salads, or grain bowls.

Flavor Boost: Add a drizzle of sriracha mayo or peanut sauce before serving.

3. Breakfast and Brunch Favorites

Breakfast just got a whole lot easier with the air fryer. From golden hash browns to fluffy pancakes, this appliance can handle your morning routine with speed and precision. No more greasy stovetop mess or waiting for the oven to preheat—just pop your ingredients in and enjoy a hot, satisfying meal in minutes.

Air Fryer Hash Browns

Frozen or homemade, hash browns turn out crispy and golden in the air fryer. For homemade, grate potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold), squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel, and mix with a bit of oil, salt, and pepper. Form into patties or spread evenly in the basket. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. Serve with eggs and toast for a classic breakfast plate.

Variation: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or shredded cheese for a loaded hash brown casserole-style dish.

Air Fryer Eggs (Hard-Boiled Style)

Yes, you can “boil” eggs in the air fryer! Place raw eggs in the basket and air fry at 270°F (132°C) for 15 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and prevent green yolks. The result is perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs with easy-to-peel shells. Great for meal prep or egg salad.

Note: This method works best for hard-boiled eggs. For soft-boiled, reduce time to 12 minutes.

Air Fryer Breakfast Burritos

Make ahead and reheat in the air fryer for a quick breakfast. Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, potatoes, and sausage or black beans. Wrap tightly in foil or parchment paper and air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 8–10 minutes. The tortilla crisps slightly, and the filling heats evenly—no soggy microwave mess.

Storage Tip: Wrap burritos in foil and freeze. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.

Air Fryer Pancakes

Skip the griddle! Use a squeeze bottle to pipe pancake batter into the air fryer basket (lightly greased or lined with parchment). Cook at 350°F for 4–5 minutes until golden and fluffy. Flip halfway if needed. Top with maple syrup, fruit, or whipped cream. Great for kids or a fun weekend brunch.

4. Vegetables and Sides That Shine

Vegetables often get overlooked in air fryer discussions, but they’re one of the best foods to cook this way. The high heat caramelizes natural sugars, creating a crispy, flavorful crust without overcooking the interior. Plus, air frying reduces cook time compared to roasting in a conventional oven.

Air Fryer Roasted Broccoli

Broccoli becomes irresistible when air-fried. Cut into even-sized florets, toss with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and salt. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking once. The edges turn crispy and charred, while the stems stay tender. Drizzle with lemon juice or sprinkle with parmesan before serving.

Health Benefit: Air frying preserves more nutrients than boiling and reduces fat compared to sautéing.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Even sprout-haters might change their minds after trying them air-fried. Trim and halve Brussels sprouts, toss with oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. The outer leaves crisp up beautifully, and the inside becomes soft and nutty.

Topping Idea: Add bacon bits, cranberries, or toasted walnuts for extra texture.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potatoes caramelize wonderfully in the air fryer. Cut into fries, toss with oil, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cinnamon. Air fry at 380°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway. The result is sweet, crispy, and slightly smoky—perfect with a side of Greek yogurt or chipotle mayo.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites

Toss cauliflower florets in a mix of tahini, lemon juice, and cumin, or coat with a buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12–15 minutes. Serve as a side, appetizer, or add to grain bowls. The texture is tender with a crisp edge—ideal for dipping.

5. Desserts and Sweet Treats

Yes, your air fryer can bake! From cookies to fruit crisps, it’s perfect for small-batch desserts that don’t require heating up the entire oven. The even heat distribution ensures golden edges and soft centers—ideal for sweet cravings.

Air Fryer Cookies

Make classic chocolate chip cookies without turning on the oven. Use your favorite recipe, drop tablespoon-sized portions onto parchment paper, and space them out in the basket. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 6–8 minutes. The cookies spread slightly and develop a crisp edge with a chewy center. Let cool before removing.

Flavor Ideas: Try oatmeal raisin, peanut butter, or double chocolate.

Air Fryer Apple Chips

Thinly slice apples (use a mandoline for even cuts), toss with cinnamon and a light spray of oil. Arrange in a single layer and air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. The result is a crunchy, naturally sweet snack—great for kids or lunchboxes.

Air Fryer Banana Bread

Make mini banana bread loaves in ramekins or silicone molds. Fill halfway with batter, place in the air fryer, and cook at 320°F for 20–25 minutes. Insert a toothpick to check for doneness. The bread comes out moist and golden—perfect for a single-serving treat.

Add-Ins: Walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries.

Air Fryer Donut Holes

Use refrigerated biscuit dough or homemade dough. Cut into bite-sized pieces, roll in cinnamon sugar, and air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 5–6 minutes. Serve warm with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce. A fun, easy dessert the whole family will love.

6. Reheating and Reviving Leftovers

One of the most underrated uses of an air fryer is reheating leftovers. Unlike microwaves, which often leave food soggy, the air fryer restores crispness and texture to pizza, fried chicken, fries, and more. It’s the secret weapon for enjoying yesterday’s meal like it’s fresh.

Reheating Pizza

Place a slice of pizza in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (177°C) for 3–4 minutes. The crust becomes crispy again, and the cheese melts perfectly—no more rubbery microwave pizza.

Tip: For best results, place a small oven-safe dish with water at the bottom to prevent drying out.

Reviving Fried Chicken

Got leftover KFC or homemade fried chicken? Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. The skin re-crisps beautifully, and the meat stays juicy. No need to deep fry again!

Crisping Up French Fries

Reheat leftover fries at 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh—crispy outside, soft inside.

Reheating Spring Rolls or Dumplings

These delicate items often turn soggy in the microwave. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 4–5 minutes to restore crispness without drying them out.

Data Table: Air Fryer Cooking Times and Temperatures

Food Item	Temperature (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
French Fries (fresh)	380	15–20	Shake basket halfway
Chicken Thighs	375	20–25	Flip halfway, check internal temp
Salmon Fillet	375	9–12	Skin-side down first
Broccoli	380	10–12	Shake once
Chocolate Chip Cookies	320	6–8	Use parchment paper
Reheated Pizza	350	3–4	Add water dish to prevent drying
Roasted Chickpeas	390	15–20	Shake every 5 minutes

As you can see, the air fryer is a versatile, time-saving, and health-conscious appliance that can handle nearly every meal of the day. From crispy snacks and hearty mains to breakfasts, sides, desserts, and even reheating leftovers, the possibilities are nearly endless. The key to success lies in understanding your model’s capacity, preheating when needed, and not overcrowding the basket for optimal air circulation.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, the air fryer simplifies meal prep without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s energy-efficient, easy to clean, and perfect for those who want to eat healthier without giving up their favorite comfort foods. So, the next time you ask yourself, “What can I make with an air fryer?”—remember this guide. Try one new recipe this week, experiment with flavors, and discover why this little appliance has earned its place as a kitchen essential. With these 10 delicious ideas, you’re well on your way to becoming an air fryer pro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I make with an air fryer for quick weeknight dinners?

With an air fryer, you can whip up crispy chicken tenders, garlic butter salmon, or even stuffed bell peppers in under 30 minutes. The rapid air circulation ensures even cooking without the need for excess oil.

Can I bake desserts in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Try air fryer brownies, mini apple pies, or chocolate chip cookies for a gooey, crispy treat. The compact space helps desserts cook faster and more evenly than in a traditional oven.

What are the easiest snacks to make with an air fryer?

Air fryer mozzarella sticks, sweet potato fries, and kale chips are foolproof crowd-pleasers. These snacks require minimal prep and deliver restaurant-quality crunch every time.

What can I make with an air fryer to replace deep-fried favorites?

You can recreate onion rings, fried chicken wings, or jalapeño poppers with up to 80% less oil. The air fryer’s high heat gives the same crispy texture without the greasy mess.

Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Yes! From frozen dumplings to fish sticks, the air fryer cooks frozen items quickly with a crispy finish. No thawing needed—just adjust cooking time by 1-2 minutes.

What healthy meals can I make with an air fryer?

Try roasted veggie bowls, lemon-garlic shrimp, or cauliflower steaks for nutritious, oil-free options. The air fryer preserves nutrients while enhancing natural flavors through rapid air circulation.