You’ve just invested in an air fryer and you’re excited to put it to good use, but you may be wondering what exactly you can cook with this innovative kitchen appliance. Well, look no further because this article will give you a rundown of all the delicious and unexpected dishes you can create with an air fryer. From crispy french fries to perfectly grilled chicken, you’ll be amazed at the versatility of this countertop gadget. Get ready to explore a world of flavorful possibilities and take your culinary skills to new heights with your trusty air fryer by your side.
Cooking Fried Foods
French Fries
When it comes to cooking delicious fried foods, French fries are an absolute classic. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy and golden results as deep-frying, but with significantly less oil. Simply toss your sliced potatoes with a bit of oil and seasonings, then place them in the air fryer. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have perfectly crispy French fries that are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are another crowd-pleaser that can be easily cooked in an air fryer. Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, the air fryer will give you tender and juicy wings with a deliciously crisp skin. Season your wings with your favorite spices, then place them in the air fryer and let it work its magic. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and evenly the wings cook, giving you a hassle-free and finger-licking good experience.
Onion Rings
If you’re a fan of the crispy and crunchy goodness of onion rings, you’ll be pleased to know that an air fryer can help you achieve that same texture without the excess oil. Coat your onion rings in a mixture of breadcrumbs and spices, then place them in the air fryer. The hot air will circulate around the rings, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the onion tender and flavorful. Enjoy these tasty treats as a side dish or a delicious appetizer.
Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are a beloved snack that can be easily made in an air fryer. Coat the sticks of mozzarella in breadcrumbs and spices, then arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer. The air fryer will quickly and evenly cook the sticks, resulting in perfectly melted cheese surrounded by a crispy and golden crust. Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a homemade snack that will rival any restaurant’s version.
Baking
Cakes
Yes, you can even bake cakes in an air fryer! Although it may seem unconventional, air fryers can produce wonderfully moist and fluffy cakes. Simply prepare your cake batter as usual and pour it into a greased pan that fits inside the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time according to the recipe, and let the air fryer work its magic. You’ll be surprised at the results – a perfectly baked cake with a golden crust, all without heating up your entire kitchen.
Muffins
Muffins are another delightful baked good that can be easily made in an air fryer. Whether you’re craving blueberry, chocolate chip, or bran muffins, the air fryer can deliver. Prepare your muffin batter, then divide it into greased muffin cups. Place the muffin tray inside the air fryer and let it bake to perfection. The hot air circulation ensures even baking, giving you moist and tender muffins with a slightly crispy top. Enjoy them for breakfast or as a tasty snack any time of day.
Cookies
When it comes to baking cookies, air fryers may not be the first appliance that comes to mind. However, they can be a convenient alternative to using a traditional oven. Shape your cookie dough into small balls and space them evenly on a greased tray that fits inside the air fryer. The hot air in the fryer will circulate around the cookies, giving them a lovely golden color and a soft, chewy texture. Plus, the smaller size of the air fryer means you can bake smaller batches of cookies more frequently, ensuring maximum freshness.
Bread
With an air fryer, you can even bake bread without the need for a large oven. From dinner rolls to artisan loaves, the air fryer can handle it all. Simply prepare your bread dough and shape it accordingly. Place the shaped dough in a greased pan that fits inside the air fryer, then set the temperature and time according to the recipe. The result? A perfectly baked bread with a golden crust and a soft interior. Baking bread in an air fryer is not only convenient but also a great way to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Grilling
Steaks
Craving a perfectly grilled steak but don’t want to fire up the grill? No problem – an air fryer can give you juicy and tender steaks with a beautiful sear. Season your steak with your preferred spices and let it come to room temperature. Preheat the air fryer, then place the steak inside and cook it based on your desired level of doneness. The hot air circulating around the steak will help it cook evenly while sealing in the delicious flavors. Whether you like it rare, medium, or well-done, the air fryer can deliver a steak that is sure to impress.
Burgers
When you want a quick and easy way to cook burgers, look no further than your air fryer. Shape your ground meat into patties, season them to your liking, and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. The hot air will circulate around the burgers, giving them a deliciously seared exterior while keeping the inside juicy. After just a few minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked burgers that are ready to be topped with your favorite condiments and enjoyed with a side of fries.
Kebabs
Kebabs are a flavorful and versatile dish that can be easily prepared in an air fryer. Thread your favorite meat, vegetables, and even fruits onto skewers, then place them in the air fryer basket. The hot air will cook the kebabs evenly, resulting in tender and juicy meat and perfectly grilled vegetables. Whether you opt for chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu, the air fryer will ensure that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying and healthy meal.
Fish fillets
Cooking fish fillets can sometimes be a delicate process, but an air fryer can make it a breeze. Season your fillets with herbs, spices, or a simple squeeze of lemon, then place them in the air fryer basket. The hot air will cook the fish gently, keeping it moist and preventing it from drying out. Enjoy flaky and perfectly cooked fish fillets that are packed with flavor and a crispy outer layer. With an air fryer, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality fish without the hassle of dealing with grease and messy cleanup.
Roasting
Whole Chicken
Roasting a whole chicken can be a time-consuming task, but with an air fryer, it becomes much more manageable. Season your chicken with your preferred seasonings, then place it in the air fryer basket, breast-side down. Set the temperature and time based on the weight of your chicken, and watch as the air fryer does its magic. The result? A beautifully roasted chicken with juicy meat and a crispy skin. Say goodbye to dry and unevenly cooked chicken – the air fryer ensures an even and delicious roast every time.
Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a tender and flavorful cut of meat that can easily be roasted in an air fryer. Season your pork with a blend of herbs and spices, then place it in the air fryer basket. The hot air circulation in the fryer will cook the tenderloin to perfection, giving it a lovely caramelized exterior and a juicy interior. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or slicing it for sandwiches, pork tenderloin cooked in an air fryer is sure to impress.
Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same results with less time and effort. Toss your favorite vegetables with a bit of oil and seasonings, then spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. The hot air will roast the vegetables to perfection, giving them a tender texture and a slightly charred exterior. From carrots to Brussels sprouts, the air fryer can handle a variety of vegetables, making it a versatile tool for healthy and delicious meals.
Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that is loved by many. With an air fryer, you can achieve crispy and perfectly seasoned roasted potatoes without the need for excessive oil. Cut your potatoes into bite-sized pieces and toss them with your preferred seasonings, then place them in the air fryer basket. The hot air circulation will cook the potatoes evenly, resulting in a golden and crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. From seasoned wedges to crispy roasted baby potatoes, the air fryer can transform simple potatoes into a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Reheating Leftovers
Pizza Slices
Reheating pizza slices in an air fryer is a game-changer. Say goodbye to soggy and unevenly heated leftovers. Simply place your cold pizza slices in the air fryer basket, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have piping hot slices with a wonderfully crisp crust. The hot air circulating around the pizza ensures that it heats evenly, giving you a reheated slice that tastes just as good as when it was fresh out of the oven.
Chicken Tenders
Leftover chicken tenders can easily be revived in an air fryer. Rather than microwaving them and sacrificing the crispy coating, place your chicken tenders in the air fryer basket and let the hot air work its magic. Within minutes, you’ll have crispy and tender chicken tenders that taste just as good as when they were freshly cooked. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce, or use them in a salad or wrap for a quick and delicious meal.
Egg Rolls
If you find yourself with leftover egg rolls, an air fryer can help bring them back to life with a satisfying crunch. Place your egg rolls in the air fryer basket and let them cook for a few minutes. The air fryer will evenly heat the rolls, giving them a crispy exterior and a warm and flavorful filling. Enjoy these revived egg rolls as a snack, appetizer, or as part of a larger meal.
Fish Sticks
Reheating fish sticks in an air fryer is a great way to ensure they maintain their crispy texture. Place your fish sticks in the air fryer basket and let them cook until they are heated through and the coating is golden and crispy. The hot air circulation will work its magic, giving you perfectly reheated fish sticks that are just as delicious as when they were first cooked. Serve them with tartar sauce and a side of fries for a quick and tasty meal.
Making Snacks
Kale Chips
Kale chips are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato chips, and an air fryer can help you achieve the perfect crispy texture. Remove the kale leaves from the stems and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a bit of oil and seasoning, then place them in the air fryer basket. In just a few minutes, you’ll have crispy kale chips that are packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy them on their own or as a healthy addition to your favorite salad or soup.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a flavorful and nutritious snack that can be easily made in an air fryer. Cut your sweet potatoes into uniform sticks, then toss them with a bit of oil and your preferred seasonings. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and let them cook until they are crispy and golden. The hot air will give you perfectly cooked sweet potato fries that are slightly sweet, savory, and addictive.
Fried Pickles
If you love the tangy and crunchy appeal of fried pickles, you’ll be pleased to know that an air fryer can help you achieve that same texture without all the oil. Dip your pickle slices in a mixture of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. The hot air will circulate around the pickle slices, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the pickle inside juicy and tangy. Serve these air-fried pickles with a side of dipping sauce for a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional fried pickles.
Popcorn
Who doesn’t love a bowl of freshly popped popcorn? With an air fryer, you can make your own healthier version at home. Toss your popcorn kernels with a bit of oil and seasonings, then place them in the air fryer basket. Close the air fryer and let it do its job. As the kernels heat up, they will pop and expand, giving you a bowl of perfectly popped popcorn. Whether you prefer it plain, buttered, or with a sprinkle of your favorite seasonings, you can’t go wrong with homemade air-fried popcorn.
Dehydrating
Fruit Chips
Dehydrated fruit chips make for a convenient and healthy snack, and an air fryer can help speed up the process. Slice your favorite fruits into thin, even slices, then arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time according to the type of fruit you are dehydrating, and let the air fryer do its work. In a matter of hours, you’ll have flavorful and crispy fruit chips that make for the perfect on-the-go snack or a versatile ingredient for homemade trail mix.
Vegetable Crisps
If you’re looking for a savory and nutritious snack, try making your own vegetable crisps in an air fryer. Slice your preferred vegetables into thin rounds, then toss them with a bit of oil and seasonings. Arrange the vegetable slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket and let them dehydrate. The hot air will remove the moisture from the vegetables, resulting in crispy and flavorful crisps that are perfect for snacking or adding a crunchy element to your favorite dishes.
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a popular snack that can be easily made in an air fryer. Slice your desired cut of beef into thin strips, then marinate them in your preferred mixture of seasonings, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Place the marinated strips in the air fryer basket and set the temperature and time according to your desired level of dryness. The air fryer will dehydrate the beef, transforming it into savory and chewy jerky that is packed with flavor and protein.
Herbs
Drying herbs is a great way to preserve their flavors and extend their shelf life. With an air fryer, you can quickly and efficiently dry herbs at home. Remove the leaves from the stems and spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to low and let the air fryer dry the herbs. In just a short amount of time, you’ll have dried herbs that can be stored and used in your favorite recipes. From basil to thyme, the air fryer can handle a variety of herbs, making it a convenient tool for any avid cook or gardener.
Toasting
Bread
Toasting bread is a simple yet satisfying process that can be easily done in an air fryer. Whether you prefer a light toast or something slightly more golden, an air fryer can help you achieve the perfect level of toastiness. Place your slices of bread in a single layer in the air fryer basket and let them toast to your desired level. The hot air will circulate evenly around the bread, resulting in slices that are uniformly toasted and ready to be topped with your favorite spreads.
Bagels
Bagels are a beloved breakfast staple that can be toasted to perfection in an air fryer. Cut your bagel in half and place the halves in the air fryer basket, cut side up. Adjust the temperature and time based on your preferred level of toastiness. The air fryer will give you crispy and slightly chewy bagels that are ready to be topped with cream cheese, butter, or your favorite sandwich fillings.
English Muffins
English muffins are another delightful breakfast treat that can be easily toasted in an air fryer. Slice your muffins in half and place them in the air fryer basket, cut side up. Set the temperature and time according to your desired level of toastiness. The hot air circulating around the muffins will give them a golden-brown crust and a soft and fluffy interior. Enjoy these toasted English muffins with butter and jam, or use them as a base for a breakfast sandwich.
Tortillas
Toasting tortillas can elevate your favorite Mexican dishes to a whole new level, and an air fryer provides a convenient way to achieve that perfect crispness. Brush your tortillas lightly with oil, then place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time based on the desired level of crispiness. The hot air in the fryer will give you tortillas that are slightly charred and crispy, making them perfect for tacos, quesadillas, or even homemade tortilla chips.
Cooking Breakfast
Eggs
Starting your day with a deliciously cooked egg is a great way to fuel your body, and an air fryer can make it even easier. Whether you prefer fried, scrambled, or even poached eggs, an air fryer can handle the task. For fried or scrambled eggs, simply crack the eggs into a greased ramekin or small oven-safe dish, then place it in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time based on your desired level of doneness. The result? Perfectly cooked eggs without the need for constant monitoring or flipping.
Bacon
Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a convenient and mess-free way to achieve crispy and delicious results. Place your bacon slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Set the temperature and time according to your desired level of crispness. The air fryer will render the fat and cook the bacon evenly, giving you slices that are crispy, yet still tender and full of flavor. Say goodbye to greasy stovetops – cooking bacon in an air fryer is quick, easy, and clean.
Hash Browns
Hash browns are a beloved breakfast staple that can be easily cooked in an air fryer. Grate your potatoes and squeeze out any excess moisture, then season them with salt and pepper. Place the grated potatoes in the air fryer basket and set the temperature and time according to your desired level of crispness. The hot air in the fryer will cook the hash browns, giving you golden and crispy patties that are a perfect addition to any breakfast spread.
Pancakes
Yes, you read that correctly – you can make pancakes in an air fryer! Prepare your pancake batter as usual, then pour it into greased ramekins or small oven-safe dishes that fit inside the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time based on the size and thickness of your pancakes. The hot air circulating around the ramekins will cook the pancakes to perfection, resulting in fluffy and golden breakfast treats. Serve them with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings for a delightful and hassle-free breakfast.
Making Desserts
Churros
Churros are a delightful treat that can be easily made in an air fryer, giving you a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions. Prepare your churro dough and transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe the dough into strips or loops directly into the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Set the temperature and time according to your desired level of crispness. The air fryer will cook the churros to a beautiful golden brown, giving you treats that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve them with cinnamon sugar and a side of chocolate sauce for dipping.
Donuts
Making homemade donuts is a fun and enjoyable activity, and an air fryer can help you achieve a deliciously light and fluffy texture. Prepare your donut dough and shape it into rounds or rings, then place them in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time according to your desired level of doneness. The hot air in the fryer will cook the donuts evenly, giving you treats that are golden brown and perfectly risen. Whether you opt for glazed, sprinkled, or filled donuts, the air fryer will help you create a batch that is sure to impress.
Apple Fritters
Apple fritters are a sweet and indulgent treat that can be easily made in an air fryer. Prepare your apple fritter batter and fold in diced apples and cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Set the temperature and time based on your desired level of crispness. The air fryer will cook the apple fritters to a beautiful golden brown, giving you treats that are crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Enjoy these delectable fritters as a dessert or as a special breakfast treat.
Brownies
Yes, you can even make brownies in an air fryer! Prepare your brownie batter as usual, then pour it into a greased pan that fits inside the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time according to your desired level of fudginess. The air fryer will cook the brownies to perfection, giving you a batch that is slightly crispy on the outside and wonderfully gooey on the inside. Whether you enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or save them for a sweet snack, air-fried brownies are a delightful treat for any chocolate lover.
In conclusion, an air fryer is a versatile appliance that can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks. From frying and baking to grilling and roasting, it can handle a variety of ingredients and dishes. Whether you’re craving crispy fried foods, homemade snacks, or delicious desserts, an air fryer offers a healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods. So, why not give it a try and explore the countless possibilities of what you can create in an air fryer? Your taste buds will thank you!