44 Easy Air-Fryer Recipes for Beginners

Air-Fryer Chicken Strips Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Chicken Strips

With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, these crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders are a breeze to make in the air fryer. The coating gets crunchy and the chicken inside stays tender and juicy. Make a homemade ranch or barbecue sauce for dipping.

“These crispy air-fryer chicken tenders are perfect for dipping. Try with your favorite honey mustard, ranch or barbecue sauce.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Air-Fryer Garlic-Butter Steak

Indulge in this mouthwatering garlic-butter steak that’s cooked to perfection in 20 minutes. Serve it with slow-cooker baked potatoes and a Caesar salad for a hearty dinner.

“This quick and easy air-fryer steak recipe is restaurant quality. It’s about to become a staple at your house!” —Recipe creator Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

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Chili-Lime Air-Fried Chickpeas

These spicy and tangy chili-lime chickpeas make a fantastic snack or salad topping. They’re crunchy, flavorful and incredibly easy to prepare in your air fryer.

“Looking for a lighter snack that’s still a crowd-pleaser? You’ve found it! These air-fried chickpeas will have everyone happily munching.” —Recipe contributor Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina

Air-Fryer Tuna Burgers Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Tuna Burgers

A delightful alternative to traditional beef burgers, these tuna burgers use canned tuna, making them ideal for quick, no-fuss weeknight dinners. Seasoned just right, they feature a crispy exterior and tender interior that make it hard to eat just one!

“My family was accustomed to traditional beef burgers before trying these fried tuna patties. At first they were hesitant, but all skepticism disappeared after one bite of this delicious air-fryer recipe.” —Recipe contributor Kim Stoller, Smithville, Ohio

Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs

When we cook these chicken thighs in the air fryer, they come out with an irresistibly crispy, golden skin. A simple blend of paprika and garlic powder is all you need for this mess-free air-fryer recipe that truly feels like a special treat.

“This air-fryer chicken thighs recipe creates meat that is crispy on the outside but super juicy on the inside. The paprika and garlic seasoning blend comes through beautifully.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Air-Fryer Red Potatoes

Crispy potato wedges always take so long in the oven! For the crispiest (and quickest) air-fryer version, we prefer small red potatoes. For a twist, we recommend swapping out the rosemary for Cajun seasoning or Old Bay seasoning.

“Roasting is one of my favorite ways to prepare veggies. Some fragrant rosemary, fresh or dried, gives these air-fryer red potatoes a distinctive but subtle taste. The dish is simple to prepare yet elegant in color and flavor. It’s a wonderful addition to any menu.” —Recipe contributor Margie Wampler, Butler, Pennsylvania

Air-Fried Butternut Squash Tacos

These tacos feature air-fried butternut squash for a hearty filling that’s equal parts unique and flavorful. We season the squash with a mix of spices and pair it with creamy avocado slices, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Though they take longer than the tacos, you can even make corn tortillas from scratch if you have time.

“Butternut squash tossed with southwestern spices makes a wonderful base for vegetarian tacos. I’m always looking for easy and healthy dinners for my family, and this dish is delicious!” —Recipe contributor Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Transform sweet potatoes into crispy, golden fries with just a toss in olive oil and your favorite spices. To ensure that the fries crisp up evenly, try to cut the strips into similar sizes.

“I can never get enough of these air-fryer sweet potato fries! Even though my grocery store sells them in the frozen foods section, I still love to pull sweet potatoes out of my garden and slice them up fresh!” —Recipe contributor Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

Air-Fryer Salmon Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Salmon

For a quick and healthy dinner, coat salmon fillets with olive oil, garlic powder, pepper, salt and paprika before air frying. The result is a light fillet with a perfectly flaky texture—a seriously fool-proof way to make salmon!

“Preparing salmon in the air fryer is, hands down, one of the easiest ways to cook it. Air-fryer salmon stays succulent, but still gets lightly browned on the outside. Use this simple salmon recipe as a starting point for different flavors and styles of salmon. The possibilities are endless!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Air-Fryer Pickles Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Pickles

Crispy air-fryer pickles are a go-to when you need a salty snack. We coat pickle slices in flour, dip them in egg and then cover them with panko breadcrumbs before air frying. They come out crunchy and full of tangy flavor; ranch dressing makes them even more addicting.

“Enjoy deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices, then air-fried until crispy. Dip them in ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget.” —Recipe contributor Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

Air-Fryer Brownies

These fudgy brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream and need just 10 minutes of prep. By combining rich chocolate, butter, sugar and eggs, you’ll get gooey, delicious brownies with a crackly crust. They might take longer than other easy air-fryer recipes, but they’re worth every bite.

“These small-batch fudgy air-fryer brownies come together so quickly, and no oven is required. Top with nuts or powdered sugar for a quick homemade treat.” —Recipe contributor Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Garlic Bread Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Garlic Bread

Transform ordinary ciabatta or baguettes into a flavorful garlic bread with this easy air-fryer recipe. We spread a mixture of garlic butter, cheese and parsley—fresh or dried—on slices of bread and then air fry until golden and crispy. It’s a quick and tasty side dish you can pair with soup recipes or pasta recipes.

“Garlic bread made in the air fryer turns out perfectly toasted. I use fresh garlic, but 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder could be used instead of fresh garlic if you don’t have it on hand. Either way, it’s delicious!” —Recipe contributor Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Cookie Pie Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Cookie Pie

This contest-winning decadent cookie pie combines the best of two classic desserts. Using cookie dough and chocolate chips, we create a rich, gooey dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Can’t find toffee bits? Use Butterfingers for a crunchy twist!

“My mom used to make cookie bars for every school even growing up. This is my updated version. It takes half the time and tastes just like Mom used to make.” —Recipe contributor Ashley Long, Mission, Kansas

Air-Fryer Meat Loaf Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Meat Loaf

For a comforting dinner, try this easy air-fryer meat loaf. Air frying helps achieve a moist, flavorful loaf with a slightly crispy exterior. Serve with mashed potatoes for a classic meal.

“If you’re looking for a hearty meal perfect for two, then look no further. This air-fryer meat loaf cooks quickly. Plus, it’s easy to double for sandwiches the next day.” —Recipe contributor Michelle Beran, Claflin, Kansas

Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Wrap tender asparagus spears in smoky bacon for an extra savory (and pretty) side or appetizer. Lightly season with olive oil before air frying.

“I serve these bacon-wrapped spears with grilled meat and sliced fresh tomatoes for a wonderful meal.” —Recipe contributor Trisha Kitts, Dickinson, Texas

Air-Fryer Hard-Boiled Eggs

Making hard-boiled eggs in the air fryer is an easy way to meal prep. You can even chop them into cobb salads for easy weekday lunches. Place the eggs in the air-fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes—they come out perfectly cooked every time!

“This is a wonderful alternative to boiling eggs on the stovetop. These air-fryer hard-boiled eggs are just as easy and super quick—a perfect way to put your air fryer to use!” —Recipe contributor Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Steak Fajitas Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Steak Fajitas

Seasoned with a blend of spices and served with warm tortillas, these steak fajitas are full of flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Slice fresh avocado and toss together your favorite salsa recipe for serving.

“Zesty salsa and tender strips of meat make these air-fryer steak fajitas extra special.” —Recipe contributor Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah

Air-Fryer Taquitos Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Taquitos

Filled with ground beef, these taquitos are air fried until golden brown—and the recipe makes plenty! Freeze leftovers for up to three months.

“I love these any-occasion air-fryer taquitos. Spice them up by adding sliced jalapenos if desired.” —Recipe contributor Mark Webber, Valdez, Alaska

Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Our easy air-fryer recipe for coconut shrimp is nothing short of a crispy, tropical delight. Juicy shrimp gets coated in a mixture of sweetened shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs. If you’re not a fan of apricot, try the classic sauce from this shrimp cocktail recipe.

“Coconut and panko crumbs give this spicy air-fryer shrimp its crunch. It’s perfect for an appetizer or for your main meal.” —Recipe contributor Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas

Air-Fryer Bacon Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Bacon

Making bacon in the air fryer is quick and ensures crispy strips every time. It’s a foolproof method for enjoying this savory favorite, and it gives you more time to focus on perfecting your omelet recipes.

“Yes, you can make bacon in your air fryer! It’s easy and keeps your stovetop free for making other breakfast foods.” —Recipe contributor Jenna Urben, McKinney, Texas

Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks

French toast sticks are a fun and easy breakfast option. We dredge bread in an egg, milk and cinnamon mixture before air frying to a golden brown. Dip the sticks in the best maple syrup to make mornings a little sweeter.

“This quick recipe makes it easy to prepare air-fryer French toast sticks. Have them handy in the freezer for a hearty breakfast in an instant. They’re also wonderful for buffets and eating on the go.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Air-Fryer French Fries

In just 40 minutes, this easy air-fryer recipe transforms simple potatoes into crispy french fries without all the grease. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, these fries pair well with grilled steak and, of course, any burger recipe you prefer.

“This low-calorie, air-fryer french fries recipe is perfect because I can whip it up at a moment’s notice with ingredients I have on hand. The fries are so crispy, you won’t miss the deep fryer!” —Recipe contributor Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia

Air-Fryer Banana Bread Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Banana Bread

This moist banana bread is made with ripe bananas, flour, sugar and butter. Air frying gives it a soft interior and nicely browned edges. Toast the chopped pecans for a nuttier flavor.

“Yes, you can make banana bread in the air fryer! This easy air-fryer banana bread recipe is a cinch to put together. Eat it while it’s still warm or at room temperature with a spread of butter.” —Recipe contributor Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Salmon Patties

Mix salmon with crushed saltines, egg and Worcestershire sauce for a flavorful patty that’s air fried until golden brown. Serve them with a side salad or on a bun for a protein-packed weeknight dinner.

“My mom would often fix these air-fryer salmon patties when we were working late. Feel free to add some chopped green or red peppers to the mixture.” —Recipe contributor Bonnie Evans, Cameron, North Carolina

Air-Fryer Asparagus Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Asparagus

Make this fresh side dish when asparagus is in season in the spring. A dressing of olive oil, mayo, lemon and garlic enhances the flavors, making this dish a delightful addition to any meal.

“This air-fryer asparagus recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to the lemon-garlic dressing that the spears are tossed in before roasting. It’s a simple, quick side that goes with almost anything.” —Recipe contributor Tina Mirilovich, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Turkey Croquettes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Turkey Croquettes

These turkey croquettes are a great way to use leftover turkey. Mix the meat with mashed potatoes and spices, then coat with breadcrumbs before air frying until crispy and golden brown.

“I grew up with a family that looked forward to leftovers, especially the day after Thanksgiving. But we didn’t just reheat turkey and spuds in the microwave—we took our culinary creativity to a new level with recipes likes this one. Serve three per plate along with a crisp green salad for an unforgettable meal.” —Recipe contributor Meredith Coe, Charlottesville, Virginia

Air-Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Rosemary and Garlic Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Garlic-Rosemary Brussels Sprouts

This simple air-fryer recipe brings out the best in Brussels sprouts, making them a tasty side dish. Add cubed ham, bacon or pancetta to up the protein if you’re serving it as an appetizer.

“This air-fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is my go-to Thanksgiving side dish. It’s healthy and easy, and it doesn’t take very much time or effort to make. I usually use rosemary for my turkey, so this lets me use up some of the leftover herbs!” —Recipe contributor Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Air-Fryer Fish and Chips Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Fish and Chips

Enjoy a classic fish and chips meal from the air fryer without all the deep-frying! We coat haddock or cod fillets and potato wedges in breadcrumbs and spices, then air fry to a crispy finish.

“Looking for easy air-fryer recipes? Try this simple air-fryer fish and chips. The fish fillets have a fuss-free coating that’s healthy but just as crunchy and golden as the deep-fried kind. Simply seasoned, the crispy fries are perfect on the side.” —Recipe contributor Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado

Air-Fryer Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a comfort food favorite, and this easy air-fryer recipe takes the hassle out of making them. The secret to a crispy exterior? Spreading mayo on the outside of the sourdough bread.

“The air fryer is a genius way to make these golden, toasty sandwiches. I think this method gets the cheese the gooiest. If I’m making only one, I’ll also pop a few fries in with the sandwich.” —Recipe contributor Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah

Air-Fryer Baked Potato Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Baked Potato

Air-fryer baked potatoes come out fluffy on the inside and ready for all sorts of toppings like bacon, chives, sour cream and cheddar cheese. Plus, the air fryer cuts the cook time nearly in half!

“By rubbing the potatoes with a butter-garlic mixture before cooking them, you end up with a very flavorful potato skin. It’s just a little incentive to eat what I think is the best part of this air-fryer baked potato.” —Recipe contributor Teresa Emrick, Tipp City, Ohio

Air-Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Get the cheese pull of your dreams by making your own mozz sticks! This recipe coats string cheese in breadcrumbs, eggs and flour, then air fries them until golden and crispy. They’re great for a snack or appetizer, especially when paired with marinara sauce.

“Deep-fried mozzarella sticks are one of our favorite appetizers. I figured out how to make them at home without having to haul out the deep fryer. Make sure to double-bread each one so these air-fryer mozzarella sticks get nice and crunchy, and to keep the cheese from oozing out as they get warm.” —Recipe contributor Mary Merchant, Barre, Vermont

Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon

Elevate your meal with this seriously easy air-fryer recipe for bacon-wrapped filets. We season filet mignon with spices, wrap them in bacon, and air fry for a juicy and flavorful result—it’s a special dish for dinner parties or date nights.

“I got the idea for bacon-wrapped filet mignon when I saw some on sale in the grocery store. The rest was inspired by my husband, because he once made a Scotch and ginger ale sauce. I originally made this in the oven but it works equally well in the air fryer!” —Recipe contributor Mary Kay LaBrie, Clermont, Florida

Homemade Air-Fryer Churros Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Homemade Air-Fryer Churros

Making churros in the air fryer is such an easy way to get that classic crunch in the pastry. Dip them in chocolate sauce and serve alongside any other Mexican desserts.

“Serve these cinnamon-sugar air-fryer churros fresh and hot with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They’re sure to become a family favorite!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Zucchini Fries Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Zucchini Fries

This contest-winning air-fryer recipe coats zucchini slices in panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese and herbs. Crispy and crunchy at the same time, they’re a great alternative to traditional fries and perfect for dipping in warm marinara sauce or cool ranch.

“These aren’t anything like potato fries—in a good way! They are air-fried to crispy perfection and oh, so flavorful. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a low-carb alternative to french fries. Don’t have an air fryer? You can convection-bake for the same time.” —Recipe contributor Jen Pahl, West Allis, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Satisfy your sweet tooth quickly with these easy peanut butter cookies. In just 20 minutes, three pantry ingredients air fry to crispy, peanutty cookies. Drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate once they’re cooled slightly for an extra special treat.

“An iconic American cookie, this version is so easy to mix up and bakes even faster in the air fryer. Cookie cravings can now be satisfied in mere minutes now.” —Recipe contributor Maggie Schimmel, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

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Air-Fryer Chicken Wings

Transform chicken wings into a flavorful and crispy delight with this beginner-friendly recipe. Air frying them ensures they come out crispy rather than soggy. Whether the wings are for game day or a quick weeknight dinner, the seasoning mix makes them a huge hit.

“You can’t go wrong with air-fryer chicken wings. Our spice rub has a nice kick from the cayenne seasoning.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Air-Fryer Kale Chips

Creating a quick and healthy snack has never been easier than with these kale chips. In just 15 minutes, we transform fresh kale into crispy, seasoned chips. You might want to eat the whole batch in one sitting. Make sure to really take the time to massage the oil into the leaves; the ribbony edges need extra attention so they won’t dry out.

“Harvesttime means big bunches of kale from local farmers. These crunchy air-fryer kale chips are delicious, super healthy and easy to make. I make them with seasoning to take the flavor up a notch. For extra zip, add a dash of cayenne pepper.” —Recipe contributor Luanne Asta, Hampton Bays, New York

Air-Fryer Chicken Fajitas

With just 20 minutes of prep time, these air-fryer chicken fajitas are the best on busy weeknights. The chicken and veggies are well-seasoned and remain juicy and tender once air-fried. Serve with warmed corn tortillas.

“Do you have fajitas only if you go to a Mexican restaurant? Then this air-fryer chicken fajitas recipe is just what you need. It’s simple to put together, and by cooking the fajitas in an air fryer, you avoid a lot of the mess.” —Recipe contributor Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Stuffed Zucchini

This easy air-fryer recipe transforms the humble zucchini into a savory, meat-and-cheese-filled entree that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Serve with dinner rolls, pasta salad or other air-fryer vegetables.

“When your garden is overflowing with zucchini, it’s time to pull out your air fryer. Filled with ground beef and cheese, this quick-to-prepare meal is a delicious way to enjoy summer’s bounty.” —Recipe contributor Tracey Rosato, Markham, Ontario

Air-Fryer Herb and Lemon Cauliflower

When you need to jazz up a head of cauliflower so the kids will eat it, pop it in the air fryer with a bunch of seasoning. It’s versatile enough to pair with any protein you’re cooking for dinner.

“A standout cauliflower side is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Crushed red pepper flakes add a touch of heat.” —Recipe contributor Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Doughnuts

Fluffy on the inside and coated in a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture on the outside, you won’t believe these air-fryer doughnuts are made using store-bought biscuits!

“My sons and I love doughnuts, but in the Florida heat I rarely want to deep-fry them. I tried making this easy air-fryer doughnut recipe, and it turned out so well—with no mess!” —Recipe contributor Christine Hair, Odessa, Florida

Air-Fryer Plantains Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Plantains

Air-fryer plantains are the perfect sweet and savory snack when you’re looking for something simple and filling. Or, serve them alongside ropa vieja for a hearty weeknight dinner.

“Having grown up in Puerto Rico, I’ve had so much amazing Caribbean food, but tostones have always been a favorite of mine. Traditionally they are deep fried, but this version of air-fryer plantains gives me the same fabulous taste without some of the calories.” —Recipe contributor Leah Martin, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Cinnamon Almonds

This recipe coats unblanched almonds in an aromatic mix of sugar and cinnamon, air-frying them until they’re delightfully crunchy. These cinnamon almonds require just 15 minutes of prep time. Store extras in an airtight container to enjoy all week.

“These crunchy air-fryer cinnamon almonds are a spectacular treat to take to a party or gathering. They taste just like the roasted almonds you get at the fair.” —Recipe contributor Janice Thompson, Stacy, Minnesota

Air-Fryer Bacon Egg Cups

These six-ingredient egg cups are a delicious and convenient breakfast option, taking only 20 minutes to prep. Breakfast will be ready for the whole week.

“These adorable bacon egg cups are a fresh take on the classic breakfast combo. I originally baked these, but they’re amazing in the air fryer—no need to heat up the oven!” —Recipe contributor Carol Forcum, Marion, Illinois

Easy Air-Fryer Recipes FAQ

Can you put aluminum foil in an air fryer?

Using aluminum foil in the air fryer can help with even cooking and prevent your ingredients from sticking to the pan. However, it’s important to make sure that the foil doesn’t touch the heating element and that it’s weighed down so it doesn’t blow around in the basket while cooking. You’ll want to avoid using foil if your recipe calls for tomatoes, citrus or any acidic ingredient as it can cause the foil to leech onto your food.

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer?

Most commonly used when baking desserts in the oven, parchment can also be used in an air fryer as a protective layer. It’s also great at making cleanup easier—just make sure it’s cut to fit the basket without obstructing air flow.

If your air-fryer recipe cooks food above 450°F, use a reusable silicone air-fryer liner instead. The silicone is able to withstand higher temperatures.

What’s the best oil to use in an air fryer?

One of the marvels of the air fryer is just how little oil it requires to cook something, unlike what you’d need when deep-frying. Most recipes call for only a couple teaspoons of oil; sometimes all you need is a light spritz.

Light oils with high smoke points, such as extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil and grapeseed oil, are best for air frying as they help achieve the food’s distinctive crispy texture and can withstand high temperatures.