In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of air fryer recipes, focusing specifically on the best ones for meal prep and leftovers. Whether you’re a busy professional looking to save time during the week or someone who loves to make the most out of their leftovers, we’ve got you covered. From crispy chicken wings to perfectly roasted veggies, these air fryer recipes will not only save you time and effort but also deliver delicious and flavorful meals that will leave you feeling satisfied and eager for the next meal prep session. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these mouthwatering recipes!
Breakfast Recipes
Start your day off right with these delicious air fryer breakfast recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Air Fryer Breakfast Burritos
These breakfast burritos are the perfect meal to start your day. Packed with eggs, cheese, and your choice of protein, they are a filling and satisfying option. Simply wrap the burritos in foil and pop them in the air fryer for a quick and easy breakfast.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon
Who doesn’t love bacon? With the air fryer, you can achieve perfectly crispy bacon without the hassle of using a stovetop or oven. Just place the bacon strips in the air fryer basket and cook until crispy. It’s a simple and mess-free way to enjoy this breakfast classic.
Air Fried French Toast Sticks
French toast sticks are a fun and delicious breakfast option that you can easily make in the air fryer. Simply dip slices of bread in an egg mixture, coat them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and then air fry until golden brown and crispy. Serve them with your favorite syrup or dipping sauce for a tasty morning treat.
Egg and Veggie Muffins
For a nutritious and portable breakfast option, try making egg and veggie muffins in the air fryer. These muffins are packed with protein, veggies, and cheese, making them a filling and healthy choice. Just mix your ingredients, pour them into muffin tins, and air fry until cooked through. They are perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Lunch Recipes
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick and easy lunch option, these air fryer recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger.
Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Skip the frozen chicken nuggets and make your own healthier version in the air fryer. Simply coat chicken pieces in a breadcrumb mixture and air fry until golden and crispy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious and satisfying lunch.
Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a light and flavorful lunch option that can be easily made in the air fryer. Just coat your fish in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, air fry until crispy, and assemble your tacos with your favorite toppings. It’s a quick and tasty way to enjoy a seafood lunch.
Air Fried Falafel Patties
For a vegetarian lunch option, try making falafel patties in the air fryer. These crispy and flavorful patties are made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Simply shape the mixture into patties, air fry until golden brown, and serve them in a pita with your favorite toppings and sauce.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
If you’re craving pizza for lunch, try making a BBQ chicken pizza in the air fryer. Start with a pre-made pizza crust or dough, top it with BBQ sauce, cooked chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Air fry until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a delicious twist on a classic lunchtime favorite.
Dinner Recipes
Make dinner time a breeze with these flavorful air fryer recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
Craving Chinese takeout? Skip the delivery and make your own sweet and sour chicken in the air fryer. Simply coat chicken pieces in a sweet and tangy sauce, air fry until crispy, and serve over rice or noodles. It’s a healthier and more convenient alternative to ordering takeout.
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Pork chops are a classic dinner option that can be easily cooked in the air fryer. The high heat of the air fryer ensures that the chops come out perfectly juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Season them with your favorite spices and herbs, air fry until cooked through, and serve with your favorite sides.
Air Fried Shrimp Stir Fry
For a quick and flavorful dinner, try making a shrimp stir fry in the air fryer. Toss shrimp with your favorite stir fry vegetables and sauce, then air fry until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Vegetable and Tofu Stir Fry
If you’re looking for a vegetarian dinner option, try making a vegetable and tofu stir fry in the air fryer. Toss your favorite veggies and cubed tofu with a flavorful sauce, air fry until the vegetables are tender and the tofu is crispy. Serve over rice or noodles for a healthy and delicious meal.
Appetizer Recipes
Perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a snack, these air fryer appetizer recipes are sure to impress.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks make for a delicious and crispy appetizer that can be made in the air fryer. Simply coat cheese sticks in a breadcrumb mixture, air fry until golden and melty, and serve with marinara sauce for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is quick and easy to make.
Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings
Onion rings are a classic appetizer that can be easily made in the air fryer. Slice onions into rings, dip them in a batter or breadcrumb mixture, air fry until crispy and golden brown. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty and satisfying snack.
Air Fried Jalapeno Poppers
If you like a little heat, try making jalapeno poppers in the air fryer. Stuff jalapeno peppers with cream cheese, wrap them in bacon, and air fry until crispy and delicious. The air fryer ensures that the poppers are perfectly cooked and the bacon is crispy. Serve them with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for a spicy and flavorful appetizer.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
No appetizer spread is complete without a classic spinach and artichoke dip. Making it in the air fryer ensures that it is bubbly and delicious. Simply mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and cheese, then air fry until hot and bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips or bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Snack Recipes
When you’re in need of a quick and satisfying snack, these air fryer recipes have got you covered.
Air Fryer Kale Chips
Kale chips are a healthy and crispy snack that can be easily made in the air fryer. Simply toss kale leaves with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings, air fry until crispy, and enjoy. They are a guilt-free alternative to traditional potato chips.
Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a favorite snack, and they can be made healthier in the air fryer. Season your wedges with your favorite spices, air fry until crispy and golden brown, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. They are a delicious and satisfying snack for any time of day.
Air Fried Zucchini Fries
Looking for a healthier alternative to french fries? Try making zucchini fries in the air fryer. Simply coat zucchini slices in a breadcrumb mixture, air fry until crispy, and serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. It’s a tasty and nutritious snack option.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
For a spicy and flavorful snack, try making buffalo cauliflower bites in the air fryer. Toss cauliflower florets in a buffalo sauce mixture, air fry until crispy and coated with sauce, and serve them with ranch dressing or blue cheese dip. It’s a vegetarian twist on classic buffalo wings.
Vegetarian Recipes
For those following a vegetarian diet or looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their routine, these air fryer recipes are a must-try.
Air Fryer Veggie Burger
Veggie burgers are a delicious and satisfying option for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut back on meat. Making them in the air fryer ensures that they are perfectly crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
Tofu nuggets are a flavorful and protein-packed option for vegetarians. Simply coat tofu cubes in a breadcrumb mixture, air fry until crispy, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. They make for a great snack or addition to salads and bowls.
Air Fried Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a nutritious and flavorful meal that can be made in the air fryer. Fill hollowed-out bell peppers with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and cheese, then air fry until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. It’s a satisfying and veggie-packed dinner option.
Mushroom and Spinach Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be easily made vegetarian in the air fryer. Fill tortillas with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese, then air fry until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Dessert Recipes
Indulge your sweet tooth with these delicious air fryer dessert recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are a classic dessert that can be made in the air fryer for a quick and tasty treat. Simply shape cookie dough into balls, place them in the air fryer, and cook until golden brown and gooey in the center. Serve them warm with a glass of milk for a nostalgic and satisfying dessert.
Crispy Air Fryer Donuts
Who can resist a freshly baked donut? With the air fryer, you can enjoy crispy and delicious donuts without the need for deep frying. Simply shape dough into rings, air fry until golden brown, and coat them in your favorite glaze or toppings. It’s a fun and easy way to satisfy your donut cravings.
Air Fried Apple Hand Pies
Hand pies are a portable and delicious dessert that can be easily made in the air fryer. Fill puff pastry with sweet apple filling, air fry until golden brown and flaky, and dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet and satisfying treat. They are perfect for picnics, parties, or just a special indulgence.
Banana Bread Bites
Love banana bread? These banana bread bites are a bite-sized twist on the classic loaf. Simply mix together mashed bananas, flour, sugar, and cinnamon, shape the mixture into balls, and air fry until golden brown and fragrant. They make for a great snack or dessert option.
Sauce and Dip Recipes
Elevate your meals with these flavorful sauces and dips that can be easily made in the air fryer.
Air Fryer Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce is a spicy and tangy addition to wings, burgers, or anything you like. Making it in the air fryer ensures that it is perfectly blended and ready to use. Simply mix together hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and spices, then air fry until heated through and well-combined. It’s a must-have sauce for spice lovers.
Garlic Aioli
Garlic aioli is a creamy and flavorful sauce that pairs well with fries, sandwiches, or even as a dip for vegetables. Making it in the air fryer ensures that the garlic flavor is perfectly infused into the sauce. Simply blend together garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt, then air fry until the garlic is fragrant and the flavors are well-mixed. It’s a versatile sauce that adds a delicious twist to any dish.
Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
Honey mustard is a sweet and tangy sauce that complements a variety of dishes. Making it in the air fryer ensures that the flavors are perfectly balanced. Simply mix together mustard, honey, mayonnaise, vinegar, and spices, then air fry until well-mixed and the flavors have melded together. It’s a classic sauce that is sure to enhance your favorite meals.
Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing and creamy addition to Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Making it in the air fryer ensures that the flavors of cucumber, dill, and garlic are well-incorporated. Simply blend together cucumbers, Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt until smooth, then air fry until chilled and well-mixed. Serve it with pita bread, gyros, or as a dip for vegetables. It’s a versatile sauce that adds a delicious and tangy flavor to any dish.
Asian-Inspired Recipes
Satisfy your cravings for Asian flavors with these delicious air fryer recipes.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Teriyaki chicken wings are a flavorful and finger-licking dish that can be made in the air fryer. Simply marinate chicken wings in a teriyaki sauce, air fry until crispy and glazed, and serve them with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions. It’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish that is sure to impress.
Sweet and Spicy Orange Cauliflower
For a vegetarian twist on orange chicken, try making sweet and spicy orange cauliflower in the air fryer. Coat cauliflower florets in a tangy orange sauce, air fry until crispy and caramelized, and serve them over rice or noodles. It’s a delicious and healthier alternative to takeout.
General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s chicken is a popular Chinese dish that can be made in the air fryer for a healthier version. Simply coat chicken pieces in a flavorful sauce, air fry until crispy and cooked through, and serve them over rice or noodles. It’s a sweet and spicy dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Sesame Ginger Edamame
Edamame is a nutritious and protein-packed snack that can be easily made in the air fryer. Toss edamame with sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame seeds, then air fry until hot and crispy. It’s a flavorful and addictive snack that is perfect for munching on.
Mexican-Inspired Recipes
Spice up your mealtime with these tasty air fryer recipes inspired by Mexican cuisine.
Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be made in the air fryer. Simply fill tortillas with cooked chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then air fry until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Crispy Air Fryer Taquitos
Taquitos are a delicious and crispy snack or meal option that can be made in the air fryer. Roll tortillas filled with your choice of protein and cheese, then air fry until golden brown and crispy. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a tasty and indulgent treat.
Air Fried Nachos
Nachos are a classic Mexican-inspired snack that can be easily made in the air fryer. Simply layer tortilla chips with cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings, then air fry until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a flavorful and satisfying snack.
Cheesy Enchilada Casserole
Enchilada casserole is a hearty and flavorful dinner option that can be made in the air fryer. Layer tortillas, cheese, and your choice of fillings, then air fry until hot and bubbly. Serve it with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings for a delicious and comforting meal.
With these delicious air fryer recipes, you can enjoy a variety of flavors and cuisines right in your own kitchen. From breakfast to dessert, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your air fryer and get cooking, you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking and bon appétit!