I Didn’t Realize How Much I’d Rely on the Air Fryer—15 Sides to the Rescue

What started as a backup turned into the most-used tool in the kitchen, especially when sides were on the line. These 15 air fryer recipes stepped in when time was short and stove space ran out. They’re quick, low-mess, and oddly reliable. Once they’re in the rotation, it’s hard to imagine cooking without them.

Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Some sides feel more like comfort food than anything else. That’s what makes Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes such a strong go-to when you need something filling. It’s packed in texture and comes out just right every time. Perfect for rounding out both casual and bigger meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole

Mixing pasta with a casserole-style side feels like a win. Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole brings warmth and a soft bite without being too heavy. It works great as a side or even something in between meals. You’ll want to make space for it again soon.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole

Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

There’s something fun about throwing in a side that feels a little different. Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake gives you that bit of extra flavor without the extra work. It pairs well with almost anything and adds a bit of balance to the plate. A nice switch-up that fits into any rotation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Air Fryer Egg Casserole

When you need something that can hold its own next to a main, this fits well. Air Fryer Egg Casserole keeps it simple but delivers on comfort. Great for mornings or paired with heavier dishes later in the day. Easy to slice and share without making a mess.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Casserole

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Sides don’t always need to be big to be good. That’s why Air Fryer Glazed Carrots land so well with quick meals. They’re soft in the middle, crisp on the edges, and bring a nice balance to bold mains. Handy to have when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

It’s tough to beat a crisp side that works with almost everything. Crispy Air Fryer Bacon checks that box without needing constant attention. It comes out just the way you want it and stays that way. Great on the side or added to something else.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Sometimes you want to keep things light but still feel like you’ve made something real. Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole helps you do just that without overdoing it. It works well with meat, seafood, or anything in between. You’ll be surprised how often it shows up again.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes

Going with something soft and filling always feels like a safe bet. That’s why Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes stick around in so many meals. They hold flavor well and pair with just about anything on the plate. A classic you don’t have to think twice about.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Broccoli

Crunchy sides that don’t take much effort tend to become regulars. Air Fryer Broccoli gets the job done without needing much from you. It keeps texture where it matters and works with big or simple meals. It’s the kind of green side you don’t forget.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Bringing a little more to the table without taking over is always a good move. Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers help do that with bold color and a balanced bite. They hold up well and add variety when the main needs a boost. A smart way to change things up.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Soft layers with a little crisp go a long way on the side of any meal. That’s where Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole comes in handy, offering both at once. It feels like a full dish but works as a complement. Makes any dinner feel a bit more put-together.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus

Some sides don’t need much to work well. Air Fryer Asparagus keeps it clean and still brings just enough crunch to stay interesting. It works as a quick filler or something to lean on with richer mains. You’ll find it coming back more often than expected.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

When you’re looking for something that hits familiar notes, this one’s a go-to. Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole has that mix of soft and crispy that always works. It holds its own next to heavier mains without competing. A steady favorite when you want something you don’t have to second-guess.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Air Fryer Baked Potato

No need to overthink it when the basics are this good. Air Fryer Baked Potato brings crisp skin and a soft inside without extra prep. It goes with just about any meal and feels complete on its own. Sometimes the simple stuff is all you need.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

If you want to add something bold without going heavy, this one fits. Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms bring a rich bite with little fuss. They’re easy to pair and don’t get lost on a full plate. A quick side that adds real value to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms