I Swapped Takeout For These 23 Air Fryer Sides Recipes And Loved It

Takeout is great until the bill shows up and suddenly it feels like you accidentally ordered a car. That’s where air fryer sides come in handy, especially with 23 different options ready to back you up. They bring the kind of variety that makes skipping delivery feel less like sacrifice and more like a smart move.

A white dish with green bean casserole in it.
Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mushrooms are a great side option, especially when cooked to perfection. Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms pack a lot of flavor while staying simple enough to replace heavy takeout sides. They’re a great option if you want something warm, tender, and with just the right texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole

Baked dish with layered pasta, mushrooms, asparagus, and nuts in a creamy sauce, topped with a golden-brown crust, in a rectangular white baking dish.
Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Instead of ordering pasta-based sides, this option delivers comfort food without a long wait. Layers of texture and great flavor make Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole an exciting twist for your table. It feels like it came straight from a restaurant, but in reality, it’s way more convenient.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole

Air Fryer Broccoli

A bowl of air fried broccoli garnished with grated cheese and lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Broccoli. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Broccoli becomes much more exciting when made this way. Air Fryer Broccoli takes a classic side and adds that perfect crispiness that’s usually missing. It’s an easy, healthy swap for greasy takeout sides without losing any appeal. If you think steamed broccoli is boring, this version changes your mind quickly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes in a serving bowl, with serving spoons and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ditch greasy, heavy hash browns and try something better for mornings instead. Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them perfect with eggs or by themselves. They take the place of any diner-style side easily without leaving you feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Close-up view of cooked bacon strips and fried eggs on a white plate, garnished with parsley.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Forget carrying home soggy bacon from a breakfast takeout bag. Crispy Air Fryer Bacon gives you all the crunch and rich texture without any extra hassles. You can enjoy it as an addition to meals or even by itself just as a snack. It’s hard to beat how easy and clean this makes adding bacon to your routine.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges in a bowl.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet potato fries are often a takeout favorite, but this option makes them easier and lighter. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges keep their natural sweetness while still giving that crispy outside. This version makes you think twice about stopping at your usual fast-food spot. It’s an easy swap for burgers, wraps, or even by itself as a treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

A close-up image of three seasoned and grilled ears of corn arranged on a plate.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Corn on the cob is already great, but this cooking method changes everything. Air Fryer Corn on the Cob turns a basic vegetable into a quick and easy side with a nice texture. Instead of waiting for water to boil or settling for dull takeout options, this gets the job done fast. It’s fun to enjoy something this easy but so effective.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Three baked sweet potatoes with butter and chives on.
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

People don’t usually think about sweet potatoes beyond holiday meals, but this option changes things. Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes make it easy to enjoy them year-round without extra work. They’re versatile, work well alongside a variety of mains, and feel like something special even on a regular day.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Air Fryer Homemade Fries

A serving of golden-brown french fries with a side of ketchup.
Air Fryer Homemade Fries. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fries are one of the most tempting takeout choices, but they’re even better made fresh, right at home. Air Fryer Homemade Fries are crispy and delicious without any grease overload. Making them this way means you get all the fun of fries without any of the guilt. It’s amazing how easy it is to replace takeout fries this way.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Two stuffed peppers in a bowl with melted cheese on top.
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Peppers filled and cooked to perfection make for a satisfying side. Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers are hearty and versatile enough to pair with almost anything. They’re a great choice when you want to skip heavier takeout and still feel full. Whether as a side or a main, they bring a nice balance of texture and flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes with gravy, garnished with herbs and black pepper, on a wooden board.
Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mashed potatoes are a comfort food, but they’re rarely thought of when skipping takeout. Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes change that, making them fluffy and easy without much effort. This version feels homemade without being time-consuming and ties any meal together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air fryer glazed carrots in a bowl with parsley.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Takeout rarely does carrots justice, but this option makes them hard to resist. Air Fryer Glazed Carrots bring out the natural sweetness while still staying light. Perfect as an easy side, they give more variety and texture to your meals at home. Skipping takeout feels more worth it when sides like this are an option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Small, bite-sized options tend to feel fancier and more fun. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes are a quick and easy addition to anything you’re making. They’re flavorful, healthier, and feel special enough to replace takeout options. You’ll find how simple it is to add these to any meal without worrying about leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Air Fryer Egg Casserole

A white casserole dish with an egg casserole in it.
Air Fryer Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast casseroles sound like big production meals, but here it’s made simple. Air Fryer Egg Casserole fits perfectly into any morning routine where you want to skip a heavy takeout platter. Layered and rich, this side makes breakfast feel complete without being over-the-top. It’s a great way to avoid takeout at any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Casserole

Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Roasted Baby Potatoes ready to eat.
Air Fryer Baby Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Potatoes are always easy to add to any meal, but this is even quicker than expected. Air Fryer Baby Potatoes are the perfect way to get crispy, bite-sized goodness that doesn’t feel like heavy takeout. They’re easy to pair with almost everything and never feel boring. Once you try them, they might be your new go-to side for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some casseroles can feel too rich, but this one keeps things light and appealing. Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole has a great balance of texture and makes for a unique side. It’s easy to enjoy eating in with this option for nights you want to skip greasy meals. This one feels almost too convenient for how good it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown crab cakes stacked on a plate, garnished with chopped herbs and set on a white paper.
Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crab cakes always feel like a fancy pick when ordering out, but not anymore. Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake gives you all the rich flavor and flaky texture while skipping the extra cost. They’re quick to make and perfect on their own or as part of a larger seafood night at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

A white dish with a sweet potato casserole on top of a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This option changes how you think about casseroles and sweet dishes all at once. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole feels like a blend of indulgence and convenience. It’s perfect for a warm, comforting side that doesn’t feel like takeout leftovers. You’ll probably make it far more often than just for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus

Air fried asparagus with garlic and parmesan on a white plate.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Asparagus often takes longer to prep, but not with this method. Air Fryer Asparagus comes out perfectly crisp without being overdone and goes with nearly anything. It’s a great swap when you’re bored of heavier sides and need a fresh, easy option. This way, taking out bland takeout salads isn’t even a thought anymore.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked casserole dish filled with cheesy potatoes and crispy bacon, garnished with chopped green onions, with a portion missing from the dish.
Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Side dishes don’t have to be overly complicated to be good. Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes are hearty, easy, and pack just enough variety in texture to stand out. They’re ideal for those who like potatoes with a little more charm. Replace greasy takeout sides instantly when this is on your table instead.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Air Fryer Garlic Knots

A close-up of a baked garlic knot topped with chopped herbs and spices, displaying a golden-brown crust.
Air Fryer Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bread-based sides are often what people miss most when skipping takeout, but this keeps that craving in check. Air Fryer Garlic Knots are soft, flavorful, and ready far faster than you’d expect. They pair easily with any pasta, soup, or chicken dinner to bring that just-right balance.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Knots

Air Fryer Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Air Fryer Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes the simplest options work best, especially with potatoes. Air Fryer Baked Potato adds a crisp, just-right texture to a classic side that’s anything but boring. You don’t have to wait long for something delicious and comforting when you cook them this way.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

A white dish with green bean casserole in it.
Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Green bean casserole is a standby, though it’s rarely considered when skipping takeout. Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole makes it feel fresh and quick all over again while reminding you why it’s so good. It’s easy to pull together and works so nicely with both simple weeknights and special meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

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