What Can You Dehydrate in an Air Fryer Top 10 Foods to Try

You can dehydrate a wide range of foods in an air fryer, from fruits and vegetables to meats and herbs, making it a versatile tool for healthy, shelf-stable snacks. Discover the top 10 foods—like apples, bananas, kale, and beef jerky—that turn out perfectly crisp and flavorful with minimal effort. With precise temperature control and fast airflow, your air fryer delivers delicious dehydrated results in less time than traditional methods.

Key Takeaways

• Dehydrate fruits easily: Apples, bananas, and berries turn into tasty snacks with minimal prep.
• Make jerky effortlessly: Lean meats like beef or turkey dehydrate well for protein-rich treats.
• Preserve herbs efficiently: Air fryers dry herbs fast, locking in flavor for long-term storage.
• Create veggie chips: Slice zucchini, carrots, or kale thinly for crispy, healthy snacks.
• Experiment with yogurt bites: Drop spoonfuls of yogurt to make tangy, bite-sized dehydrated snacks.
• Low heat is key: Use 130–140°F to avoid cooking instead of dehydrating foods properly.

What Can You Dehydrate in an Air Fryer? Top 10 Foods to Try

Let me tell you a little secret: your air fryer can do way more than just make crispy fries and juicy chicken wings. It’s actually a hidden gem for food dehydration—a method that’s been around for centuries but is now easier than ever thanks to modern appliances. I first discovered this when I accidentally left some sliced apples in my air fryer on a low setting overnight. The next morning, I woke up to chewy, naturally sweet apple chips that beat any store-bought version. Since then, I’ve been experimenting with everything from herbs to jerky, and I’m excited to share my findings with you.

Dehydrating food is not only a fantastic way to preserve seasonal produce, but it also reduces food waste and creates delicious, nutrient-dense snacks. Unlike traditional dehydrators, air fryers use rapid air circulation to gently remove moisture from food, resulting in evenly dried items with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or just someone who loves crunchy snacks, learning what you can dehydrate in an air fryer will open up a whole new world of possibilities. So, grab your air fryer, and let’s dive into the top 10 foods you can dehydrate at home.

1. Fruits: Sweet, Chewy, and Naturally Delicious

Fruits are some of the easiest and most rewarding foods to dehydrate in an air fryer. The process concentrates their natural sugars, creating sweet, chewy snacks that are perfect for kids, hikers, or anyone craving a healthy treat. The key is to slice them uniformly so they dry evenly.

Apples: The Classic Dehydrated Snack

Apples are a no-brainer. Slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick), remove the core, and place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 135°F (or the lowest setting your air fryer allows) and dehydrate for 2-4 hours, flipping halfway. The result? Crispy apple chips or chewy apple leather, depending on how long you leave them. Pro tip: Soak the slices in lemon juice for 5 minutes before dehydrating to prevent browning and add a zesty twist.

Bananas: Creamy and Sweet

Bananas dehydrate beautifully, turning into soft, chewy bites that taste like nature’s candy. Slice them into rounds (1/4 inch thick) and arrange them in a single layer. Dehydrate at 135°F for 2-3 hours, or until they’re leathery but not brittle. If you prefer crispy banana chips, extend the time by 30-60 minutes. Store them in an airtight container—they’re perfect for lunchboxes or as a topping for oatmeal.

Strawberries: Bursting with Flavor

Strawberries are a bit trickier due to their high water content, but the payoff is worth it. Slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch) and remove the stems. Dehydrate at 135°F for 3-5 hours, checking frequently after the 3-hour mark. They’ll turn into sweet, slightly tart chips that are great for snacking or adding to trail mix. For a fun twist, sprinkle them with a pinch of cinnamon before dehydrating.

Bonus Fruits to Try

• Pineapple: Slice into rings or cubes and dehydrate for 2-4 hours. The result is a tropical, chewy snack.
• Peaches: Pit and slice, then dehydrate for 3-4 hours. They’ll retain their fuzzy texture and sweet flavor.
• Mangoes: Peel and slice thin strips. Dehydrate for 2-3 hours for a sticky, sweet treat.

2. Vegetables: From Crispy Chips to Flavorful Powders

Vegetables are another fantastic category for air fryer dehydration. They can be turned into crispy chips, savory snacks, or even ground into powders for seasoning. The key is to slice them thinly and monitor them closely to avoid burning.

Zucchini and Cucumber: Light and Crunchy

Zucchini and cucumber slices dehydrate into light, crunchy chips that are perfect for dipping or snacking. Slice them into 1/8-inch rounds and dehydrate at 135°F for 2-3 hours. For extra flavor, toss them in olive oil and a pinch of salt before dehydrating. These chips are a great low-calorie alternative to potato chips.

Beets: Earthy and Vibrant

Beets are a bit denser, so they take longer to dehydrate (3-4 hours at 135°F). Slice them into 1/8-inch rounds and watch as they transform into vibrant, earthy chips. They’re a great source of iron and make a stunning addition to salads or charcuterie boards.

Carrots: Sweet and Chewy

Carrot slices dehydrate into sweet, chewy bites that are perfect for kids. Slice them into 1/8-inch rounds or matchsticks and dehydrate for 2-3 hours. For a fun twist, toss them in a little honey or maple syrup before dehydrating for a caramelized flavor.

Vegetable Powders: Flavor Boosters

Dehydrated vegetables can also be ground into powders for soups, stews, or seasoning blends. Try dehydrating:

• Tomatoes: Slice and dehydrate for 4-6 hours, then grind into a powder for pasta sauces.
• Onions: Slice thin and dehydrate for 2-3 hours. The powder adds a savory kick to dips and rubs.
• Bell Peppers: Slice and dehydrate for 3-4 hours. The powder is great for seasoning meats or veggies.

Tip: Use a coffee grinder or high-speed blender to turn dehydrated veggies into a fine powder.

3. Herbs: Preserve Summer’s Freshness

If you’ve ever grown herbs in your garden, you know how quickly they can go to waste. Dehydrating them in your air fryer is a simple way to preserve their flavor and aroma for months. The best part? No special equipment is needed—just your air fryer and a little patience.

Basil, Mint, and Cilantro: Aromatic and Versatile

These delicate herbs dehydrate quickly and retain their bright flavors. Strip the leaves from the stems and spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Dehydrate at 135°F for 1-2 hours, checking every 30 minutes. They’re done when they crumble easily between your fingers. Store them in a glass jar with a tight lid—they’ll last for months and add a burst of freshness to your dishes.

Rosemary and Thyme: Woody and Robust

These hardy herbs take a bit longer (2-3 hours at 135°F) but are worth the wait. Strip the leaves from the stems and dehydrate them whole. Once dry, crumble them with your fingers or a mortar and pestle. They’re perfect for seasoning meats, soups, or roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips for Herbs

• Harvest in the morning: Herbs are most flavorful after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too hot.
• Use parchment paper: Place it in the air fryer basket to prevent small leaves from falling through the holes.
• Label your jars: Dehydrated herbs look similar, so label them with the name and date.

4. Meat and Jerky: Protein-Packed Snacks

If you’re a fan of jerky, your air fryer is about to become your new best friend. Dehydrating meat in an air fryer is faster and more consistent than using a traditional dehydrator, and the results are just as delicious. The key is to slice the meat thinly and season it well.

Beef Jerky: The Classic Snack

Start with lean cuts like top round or sirloin. Slice them into 1/4-inch strips against the grain for tender jerky. Marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Place the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket and dehydrate at 160°F for 3-4 hours, flipping halfway. The jerky is ready when it’s dry but still slightly chewy.

Chicken Jerky: A Lighter Alternative

Chicken breast is a great option for a leaner jerky. Slice it into 1/4-inch strips and marinate in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Dehydrate at 160°F for 2-3 hours, or until it’s firm and chewy. It’s a fantastic high-protein snack for athletes or anyone watching their fat intake.

Turkey and Pork: Flavorful Variations

Turkey and pork can also be dehydrated into jerky. Turkey breast is lean and mild, while pork loin has a richer flavor. Season them with your favorite rubs or sauces and dehydrate at 160°F for 3-4 hours. Pro tip: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade for that classic smoky flavor.

5. Dairy and Eggs: Unexpected but Useful

You might not think of dehydrating dairy or eggs, but it’s actually a great way to preserve them and create unique ingredients for cooking. Just be sure to use low temperatures and monitor them closely to avoid over-drying.

Cheese: Crunchy or Powdered

Hard cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or gouda can be dehydrated into crunchy bites or ground into a powder. Grate the cheese and spread it in a thin layer in the air fryer basket. Dehydrate at 135°F for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The result? Crispy cheese chips or a savory powder that’s perfect for popcorn, pasta, or soups.

Eggs: For Long-Term Storage

Dehydrating eggs is a game-changer for campers or preppers. Crack eggs into a bowl and scramble them lightly. Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or parchment-lined air fryer basket. Dehydrate at 135°F for 4-6 hours, or until completely dry. Once dehydrated, grind them into a powder and store in an airtight container. To rehydrate, mix 1 tablespoon of powder with 2 tablespoons of water.

Yogurt: Tangy and Sweet

Spread plain yogurt in a thin layer on parchment paper and dehydrate at 135°F for 4-6 hours. The result is a tangy, sweet yogurt leather that’s perfect for snacks or as a topping for desserts. For a fun twist, mix in honey, fruit, or granola before dehydrating.

6. Nuts, Seeds, and Spices: Small but Mighty

Nuts, seeds, and spices are often overlooked for dehydration, but they’re some of the most versatile foods you can dry in your air fryer. The process enhances their flavor and makes them easier to store or grind into powders.

Nuts and Seeds: Crunchy and Nutritious

Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds can all be dehydrated to extend their shelf life or create custom trail mixes. Spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and dehydrate at 135°F for 1-2 hours. They’ll become even crunchier and more flavorful. For a sweet twist, toss them in honey or maple syrup before dehydrating.

Spices: Intensify the Flavor

Fresh spices like ginger, garlic, or chili peppers can be dehydrated to create potent powders. Slice them thinly and dehydrate at 135°F for 1-3 hours, depending on the thickness. Once dry, grind them into a fine powder and use them to season meats, soups, or sauces. Pro tip: Store them in small jars to preserve their aroma.

Bonus: Dehydrated Garlic and Onions

Garlic cloves and onion slices can be dehydrated and ground into powders for instant flavor. Dehydrate at 135°F for 2-3 hours, then store in airtight containers. They’re perfect for seasoning rubs, dips, or marinades.

Dehydration Times and Temperatures at a Glance

Food	Temperature (°F)	Time (Hours)	Notes
Apples	135	2-4	Slice thin, soak in lemon juice
Bananas	135	2-3	For crispier chips, extend time
Beef Jerky	160	3-4	Marinate overnight, flip halfway
Herbs (Basil, Mint)	135	1-2	Check every 30 minutes
Cheese	135	1-2	Use hard cheeses, stir occasionally
Nuts and Seeds	135	1-2	Spread in single layer

Dehydrating food in your air fryer is a simple, cost-effective way to preserve seasonal produce, reduce waste, and create delicious snacks. From fruits and veggies to meats and herbs, the possibilities are endless. The key is to experiment with different foods, temperatures, and times to find what works best for you. Start with the foods on this list, and don’t be afraid to try something new—you might just discover your next favorite snack. Happy dehydrating!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you dehydrate in an air fryer?

You can dehydrate a variety of foods in an air fryer, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even meats. Just slice them thinly and use the lowest temperature setting (90–170°F) for best results.

Can you dehydrate fruits in an air fryer?

Yes, fruits like apples, bananas, strawberries, and mangoes dehydrate well in an air fryer. Spread slices evenly in the basket and run 4–6 hours at 135°F for chewy, flavorful snacks.

Is dehydrating food in an air fryer healthy?

Dehydrating preserves nutrients and removes water, creating healthy, preservative-free snacks. It’s a great way to reduce waste and enjoy whole foods like what can you dehydrate in an air fryer without added sugars.

How do you dehydrate herbs in an air fryer?

Place clean, dry herbs (like rosemary or thyme) in a single layer and dehydrate at 90°F for 1–2 hours. This retains flavor and color for long-term storage.

Can you make beef jerky in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Marinate lean beef strips and dehydrate at 160°F for 3–4 hours. The air fryer’s circulation creates perfectly chewy jerky—just monitor for doneness.

What vegetables work best for air fryer dehydration?

Carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms dehydrate well in an air fryer. Slice uniformly, pre-salt if desired, and run 3–5 hours at 135°F for crispy or leathery textures.