Top 10 Things to Cook in an Air Fryer: A Complete Guide

The air fryer has rapidly become a kitchen staple for many home cooks, and it’s no surprise. This versatile appliance offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, providing crispy results without the excess oil. The air fryer allows you to cook everything from crispy snacks to full meals, making it perfect for busy households.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 Things to Cook in an Air Fryer. Whether you’re new to air frying or looking for inspiration to enhance your current repertoire, this guide will offer practical tips and delicious recipe ideas that will help you make the most of your air fryer.

Top 10 Things to Cook in an Air Fryer for Quick and Easy Meals

If you’re new to cooking with an air fryer, it might seem like a daunting task to figure out what to make. Fortunately, air fryers are incredibly versatile and easy to use. Whether you’re looking to prepare a quick snack or a full meal, the air fryer simplifies the cooking process and reduces cooking time. To help you get started, here’s a step-by-step guide for the top 10 things to cook in an air fryer for beginners.

1. Air Fryer French Fries

French fries are a classic beginner-friendly recipe that’s simple to prepare and perfect for air frying. You can enjoy crispy fries without all the oil of deep frying!

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 2 large potatoes
   • 1 tablespoon olive oil
   • Salt, to taste
2. Instructions:
   • Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into thin strips.
   • Soak the potato strips in water for at least 30 minutes (this helps achieve crispier fries).
   • Pat the potatoes dry and toss them in olive oil and salt.
   • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
   • Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
   • Cook for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
   • Once crispy and golden, serve immediately.

Tip: Try adding some pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite seasoning for extra flavor.

2. Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Chicken wings cook perfectly in the air fryer. They get crispy without being drenched in oil, making them healthier than traditional deep-fried wings.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 10 chicken wings
   • 1 tablespoon olive oil
   • Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
2. Instructions:
   • Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel.
   • Toss the wings in olive oil, salt, pepper, and seasoning.
   • Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
   • Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
   • Cook for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Once crispy, serve with dipping sauces like ranch or buffalo sauce.

Tip: For extra crispy skin, spray the wings with a little cooking spray before air frying.

3. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are a great starting point for beginners since they cook quickly and are versatile in terms of seasoning.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 2 chicken breasts, cut into tenders
   • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
   • 1 egg
   • 1 tablespoon olive oil
   • Salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste
2. Instructions:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
   • Dip each chicken tender in the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
   • Spray the air fryer basket with a light coat of cooking spray.
   • Place the tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
   • Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tip: To make them even crispier, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

4. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are an easy and fun appetizer or snack to make in the air fryer, with a crispy coating and gooey cheese inside.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 8 mozzarella sticks
   • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
   • 1/4 cup flour
   • 1 egg
2. Instructions:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
   • Dip each mozzarella stick in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs.
   • Place the coated mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket.
   • Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
   • Serve with marinara sauce.

Tip: Freeze the mozzarella sticks for 15-20 minutes before cooking to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.

5. Air Fryer Vegetables

Air frying vegetables is a great way to get crispy, roasted vegetables quickly with minimal oil. They are a healthy side dish or snack.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
   • 1 tablespoon olive oil
   • Salt and pepper to taste
2. Instructions:
   • Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
   • Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
   • Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
   • Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
   • Serve warm.

Tip: You can add your favorite seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs for more flavor.

6. Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese sandwiches cook perfectly in the air fryer, with golden, crispy bread and melted cheese.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 2 slices of bread
   • 2 slices of cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella)
   • Butter
2. Instructions:
   • Butter the outside of the bread slices.
   • Place the cheese between the slices of bread.
   • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
   • Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket.
   • Cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Once golden and crispy, serve.

Tip: Add extras like tomatoes or bacon for a gourmet twist on your grilled cheese.

7. Air Fryer Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly in the air fryer, and it’s a perfect protein for beginners who want to make a simple yet flavorful dish.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
   • 1 tablespoon olive oil
   • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice
2. Instructions:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
   • Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
   • Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
   • Cook for 5–6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
   • Serve with a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or garlic butter.

Tip: You can also serve the shrimp over pasta or a salad for a complete meal.

8. Air Fryer Toast

Making toast in the air fryer is fast and easy. You’ll have perfectly toasted bread without waiting for a toaster to pop.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 2 slices of bread
   • Butter (optional)
2. Instructions:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
   • Place the slices of bread in the air fryer basket.
   • Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
   • Add butter or toppings like avocado or jam.

Tip: For a crispy, crunchy toast, brush the bread with butter before air frying.

9. Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes in the air fryer cook in a fraction of the time compared to the oven, and they turn out just as fluffy inside.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • 2 medium-sized potatoes
   • Olive oil
   • Salt
2. Instructions:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
   • Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
   • Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket.
   • Cook for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Pierce with a fork to check doneness, and serve with your favorite toppings.

Tip: You can add cheese, sour cream, or bacon bits for a loaded baked potato.

10. Air Fryer Pancakes

You can even make pancakes in your air fryer! These are perfect for a quick breakfast.

Steps:

1. Ingredients:
   • Pancake batter (store-bought or homemade)
   • Butter or cooking spray
2. Instructions:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
   • Pour pancake batter into silicone molds or a baking pan that fits in the air fryer.
   • Place the pan in the air fryer and cook for 8-10 minutes.
   • Serve with syrup and toppings.

Tip: Make mini pancakes using silicone muffin cups for bite-sized servings.

Top 10 Things to Cook in an Air Fryer for Healthy Eating

One of the best things about the air fryer is that it allows you to make healthier versions of traditionally deep-fried foods. By using minimal oil, you can create meals that are low in fat but still full of flavor. Here are some healthy recipes to try:

1. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, and they come out perfectly crispy when cooked in the air fryer. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and cook at 375°F for 15 minutes. You’ll get perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Pro Tip: Add balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after cooking for added flavor.

2. Air Fryer Salmon

Salmon is a healthy, flavorful fish that’s easy to prepare in the air fryer. Simply season your fillet with salt, pepper, and any desired spices, and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. The result is perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and a tender, flaky interior.

Pro Tip: For added flavor, drizzle the salmon with lemon juice or a teriyaki glaze before cooking.

3. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins and fiber, and they cook beautifully in the air fryer. Cut the sweet potatoes into fries, toss them with olive oil and seasoning, and cook at 400°F for 15–20 minutes. The result is crispy, caramelized fries that make a healthy alternative to traditional French fries.

Pro Tip: Try sprinkling cinnamon or paprika on the fries for a unique flavor twist.

4. Air Fryer Chickpeas

Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, and they can be turned into a crunchy, healthy snack in the air fryer. Toss canned chickpeas in olive oil and your favorite spices, and cook at 400°F for 15 minutes. The result is a crispy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for munching throughout the day.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for variety.

5. Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is a lean, protein-packed option that’s easy to cook in the air fryer. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then cook at 375°F for 15–20 minutes. The result is a juicy, tender chicken breast that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a standalone meal.

Pro Tip: To keep the chicken breast juicy, you can marinate it before cooking.

Easy Air Fryer Meals for Two: Perfect for Busy Couples

Cooking for two doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The air fryer is perfect for creating quick, delicious meals for two people without leftovers. Here are some easy meals for two that you can prepare in the air fryer.

1. Air Fryer Pork Chops

Pork chops are an easy, flavorful meal that cooks quickly in the air fryer. Season the chops with your favorite spices, then cook at 375°F for 15 minutes. The result is a juicy, tender pork chop with a crispy crust.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops for an hour before cooking.

2. Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

A classic grilled cheese sandwich can be made effortlessly in the air fryer. Butter two slices of bread, add cheese in the middle, and cook at 350°F for 5–6 minutes. You’ll get a crispy, golden sandwich with gooey cheese inside.

Pro Tip: Add extras like tomato slices or bacon for a gourmet grilled cheese.

3. Air Fryer Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly in the air fryer and makes for an easy meal. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, then cook at 400°F for 5–6 minutes. The shrimp will turn out perfectly juicy and flavorful, making for a quick dinner or appetizer.

Pro Tip: Serve the shrimp with a side of dipping sauce, like cocktail sauce or garlic butter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the air fryer is a fantastic kitchen appliance that makes cooking easier, faster, and healthier. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, the air fryer can help you prepare a variety of dishes with minimal effort and oil. From crispy French fries and chicken wings to shrimp and even baked potatoes, the possibilities are endless. The recipes shared in this article are simple and beginner-friendly, making them perfect for anyone looking to get the most out of their air fryer. With just a little practice, you’ll be able to make delicious meals in no time and enjoy healthier versions of your favorite dishes. So, get your air fryer ready and start cooking today!

FAQs

1. What is an air fryer?

An air fryer is a countertop kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it. It mimics the results of deep frying but uses little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

2. Do I need to use oil in the air fryer?

No, you don’t have to use oil in the air fryer, but a small amount of oil (such as spraying the food with cooking spray) can help achieve a crispier texture, especially for foods like French fries and chicken wings.

3. Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Yes, the air fryer is great for cooking frozen foods like frozen fries, nuggets, and fish sticks. The hot air circulation helps cook the food quickly and evenly, without the need for thawing.

4. How long does it take to cook food in an air fryer?

Cooking time in an air fryer is generally much faster than in a traditional oven. For example, chicken wings may take around 25 minutes, while French fries could take 20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and type of food, as well as the air fryer’s brand and model.

5. What foods can I cook in the air fryer?

You can cook almost anything in the air fryer, including meats, vegetables, snacks, and even baked goods. Some popular items include French fries, chicken wings, fish fillets, vegetables, pancakes, and desserts like donuts or brownies.

6. Can I use foil or parchment paper in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use foil or parchment paper in the air fryer, but make sure it’s placed properly to avoid obstructing the airflow. This will ensure your food cooks evenly. Also, never line the basket with foil if the air fryer is preheated, as it can cause a fire hazard.

7. Why are my food items not crispy in the air fryer?

If your food isn’t turning out crispy, it could be due to several factors. First, try not to overcrowd the basket, as this can restrict the airflow and prevent the food from crisping up. Second, lightly spraying the food with oil can help it crisp up better. Lastly, make sure you are cooking at the right temperature.

8. Is the air fryer easy to clean?

Yes, air fryers are relatively easy to clean. Most air fryers have a removable basket or tray that is dishwasher safe. For stubborn grease or residue, a simple wipe down with a sponge and warm soapy water usually does the trick. Make sure to clean your air fryer after each use to maintain its performance.

9. How do I know if my air fryer is preheated?

Most air fryers have a preheat function or a preheating indicator light. If your model doesn’t have this, simply allow the air fryer to run for about 3-5 minutes before adding your food. This ensures that the food cooks at the optimal temperature from the start.

10. Can I cook large meals in an air fryer?

While air fryers are great for smaller portions, some larger models allow for more food to be cooked at once. However, if you’re preparing meals for a large group, you might need to cook in batches to ensure the food cooks evenly.