Air fryers have become a kitchen superstar in the U.S., with over 30% of households owning one in 2025, according to recent market data. They help cook faster, healthier, and more fun by crisping food with hot air without excessive oil.
One of the best chefs shares 10 simple air fryer recipes that are perfect not only for weekdays but also for snacks and even desserts. These recipes are easy to make and big on flavor, helping the busy housewife win the dinner table.
Mushroom pasta made with mascarpone
Who told you that you can not prepare creamy pasta sauce in an air fryer? Drizzle sliced mushrooms with garlic, olive oil, and salt and cook at 380°F for 8 minutes. The mushrooms are caramelized in half the time it takes on a stovetop.
As the mushrooms cook, the pasta should be boiling. Combine all this with mascarpone cheese and fresh herbs, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in minutes, quicker than takeout.
Shrimp scampi makeover
Do you get sick of cooking shrimp on the stove? This air fryer model provides the taste of garlic and lemon in just six minutes. Toss large shrimp in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes, then roast at 400 degrees.
The secret here is to give the shrimp room in the basket so they cook evenly. Serve the lemon and parsley to complete the best, stress-free dinner.
Gochujang chicken wings
These crispy wings are coated with a sweet-and-spicy gochujang-honey glaze. Wipe the wings, set aside, toss with the glaze, and bake at 380 °C for 25 mins, turning halfway.
The glaze caramelizes evenly around the wings without burning in the air fryer, producing the ideal crispy-tasting wings.
Indonesian-style chicken wings
Wings can be marinated in a blend of kecap manis (sweet Indonesian soy sauce) and sambal oelek for at least one hour. Then fry similarly to gochujang wings. The air fryer produces a shiny caramelized surface full of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors.
Korean-style beef tacos
Thin slices of beef marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and brown sugar take 8 minutes at 400°F. Eat with pickled vegetables and sriracha mayonnaise. These tacos are unforgettable for the juxtaposition of juicy beef and pickles.
Chile-cheese toast
This snack originates from India and is perfect for hectic nights. Combine grated cheese, green chiles, and chaat masala, and spread on bread. Then air-fry at 325°F for 5 minutes. You will have perfectly melty, crispy toast in no time.
It is recommended to serve it with mint chutney or ketchup as a garnish. This quick and easy recipe is sure to be a hit among both adults and kids.
Crispy Brussels sprouts with garlic-chile butter
Cut the Brussels sprouts in half, then toss with olive oil and salt, and air-fry at 375°F. Then rub them with melted butter, garlic, and chili flakes. These sprouts are crispy, golden, and full of flavor.
Just before serving, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy finish. These Brussels sprouts can be served with any of your preferred dipping sauces to make a snack or side dish you can never resist.
Cheesy potato and broccoli croquettes
Mash the potatoes and broccoli with cheese and seasonings, and roll into cylinders and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Air-frying for 12 minutes at 400°F yields creamy, cheesy croquettes with a golden, evenly coated finish. Add ranch dipping sauce for the ultimate comfort food.
To add an extra flavor, a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper is a good addition to the mixture. These are the best types of croquettes to prepare meals with; you can freeze them and reheat them for a snack in a few minutes.
Buffalo cauliflower tacos
Spray cauliflower florets with buffalo sauce and a small amount of flour, then fry in the air at 400°F. Top in tacos with shredded cabbage, celery, and ranch drizzle (or blue cheese drizzle) to make a yummy meat-free meal.
Garnish with chopped avocado and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add flavor. These buffalo cauliflower tacos can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or as a party dish everyone will love.
Smoky tempeh sandwich
Slice the tempeh into thin slices, then marinate it in soy sauce, liquid smoke, maple syrup, and spices, and air-fry at 375°F for 10 minutes. It leaves behind smoky and chewy layers of protein that can be used in sandwiches with avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
To give it an additional boost, spread some spicy mustard or some hot sauce on your sandwich. Serve it with crisp, air-fried sweet potato wedges on the side for a full and healthy meal.
Air fryer goat cheese fritters
Combine goat cheese, herbs, and honey, then roll into balls. Lightly coat with panko and air-fry at 350°F for 5 minutes. These fritters are crispy on the outside and creamy inside, making them a perfect appetizer when drizzled with honey and topped with toasted nuts.
Present them hot and at their finest, accompanied by a salad or crusty bread. These fritters can also be added to pasta or roasted vegetables.
Key takeaway
Your air fryer can do much more than warm up leftovers. These recipes demonstrate that they can create tasty flavors, crispy textures, and quick meals with just a little effort. Your air fryer has your back, whether you are in the mood to make cronut croquettes or spicy gochujang wings.
Start with one or two recipes and see how this kitchen appliance can change your cooking during the weekdays. You may never see it again in a new light.
Disclaimer–This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
Disclosure: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.
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