35 Recipes for an Air Fryer That Keep Cooking Simple

Some tools earn their place by making cooking easier without feeling boring. One thing that stands out is how 35 recipes cover quick dinners, low-effort lunches, and easy wins for busy households. Each option keeps prep reasonable and timing predictable. I like how the collection leaves room for flexibility instead of pressure.

A white dish with scalloped potatoes and parsley. — Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Beef Moussaka

Close-up of a cheesy, baked lasagna topped with chopped parsley and browned, melted cheese. — Air Fryer Beef Moussaka. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Few things bring as much comfort to the table as this Air Fryer Beef Moussaka. Layers come together with rich flavors that rival your favorite restaurant, yet it all feels so quick and simple. I appreciate being able to make a classic dish in less time with less mess. There always seems to be excitement when this gets served for supper.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Moussaka

Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Close-up of cooked chicken thighs, seasoned with herbs and garnished with chopped parsley. — Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfectly cooked Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs make weeknight dinners feel much easier. Clean-up is minimal, which makes everyone’s schedule less stressful. People ask how you got them so flavorful in so little time, and it never gets old. I enjoy how every bite stays tender and keeps people reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Crispy Air Fryer Conch Fritters

A hand reaches for a piece of crispy, golden-brown fried chicken garnished with chopped parsley on a white plate. — Crispy Air Fryer Conch Fritters. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bite-sized appetizers like these Crispy Air Fryer Conch Fritters take snack time up a notch. Friends don’t realize how little work is involved when each one comes out crunchy and golden. You’ll appreciate making a crowd favorite without all the fuss. Quick snacks can feel special with hardly any clean-up at all.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Conch Fritters

Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

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

Little dishes that look bright and tempting, like these Glazed Air Fryer Carrots, have a way of disappearing first. Each bite is soft and sweet with a caramelized finish in record time. I like having tasty sides that don’t take much effort to prepare. Weeknight meals become easier with this reliable recipe on hand.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

Air Fryer Raspberry Cheesecake

A cheesecake topped with raspberry sauce and fresh raspberries sits on parchment paper on a wooden plate. — Air Fryer Raspberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Desserts can seem tricky, but this Air Fryer Raspberry Cheesecake changes the game. Slices come out creamy and rich, and it always surprises people to learn it wasn’t baked the usual way. I love the compliments when I bring this out as a treat. It brings smiles with almost no stress or extra clean-up.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Raspberry Cheesecake

Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham

Vegan ham on a serving plate. — Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gathering everyone for a veggie-centered dinner is simple with this Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham. Its texture and taste impress both meat-lovers and vegetarians. I find that making this dish in the air fryer keeps things relaxed, especially with fewer dishes to wash. Plates are always clean before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham

Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of baked casserole with a golden cheese topping sits on ground meat in a bowl, garnished with chopped parsley and accompanied by a fork and knife. — Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Some nights call for hearty, nostalgic meals like this Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Casserole. The aroma fills your kitchen, creating excitement before dinner is served. I notice everyone heads for seconds, not wanting to miss out. There’s something extra fun about classic food with a simple twist.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Casserole

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.

Golden kernels from this Air Fryer Corn on the Cob bring a bit of sunshine to any meal. You get crisp results without a lot of mess or waiting. I make this whenever we crave something sweet and quick for the table. People end up raving about how simple it feels but how good it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Air Fryer Spicy Salmon Bowls

A bowl with grilled salmon on rice, topped with sesame seeds, surrounded by sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, jalapeños, mango cubes, and chopped green onions. — Air Fryer Spicy Salmon Bowls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Heat and bold flavor join forces in these Air Fryer Spicy Salmon Bowls for a refreshing change at supper. You can pull them together in less time than ordering takeout, which comes in handy on busy nights. I appreciate that cleanup stays simple while everyone feels full. These bowls prove you don’t need a lot of steps for a showstopping meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spicy Salmon Bowls

Air Fryer Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top. — Air Fryer Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Morning meals or snacks get a whole lot easier with these Air Fryer Egg Bites. Each bite is fluffy and flavorful, perfect for eating on the go. I reach for this recipe whenever a busy day needs a protein boost. Families appreciate how easy these are, and leftovers store well for later.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Egg Bites

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese. — Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Parties and game nights aren’t complete without these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Each crunchy bite is gooey inside and wins over guests in no time. You’ll see them vanish off the tray before you even notice. I make a double batch because they disappear so fast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Baked breadcrumb-topped casserole with pieces of chicken, garnished with chopped parsley in a white dish. — Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Some dinners feel fancy with no extra effort thanks to this Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. The dish plates up beautifully and gets the table talking. I pull this out when I want classic comfort done the easy way. Less stress in the kitchen means more time enjoying supper together.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Air Fryer Pig Shots

Close-up of shrimp wrapped in bacon secured with toothpicks, on a parchment-lined surface, seasoned with spices. — Air Fryer Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Appetizers should be fun, and Air Fryer Pig Shots definitely fit that bill. They’re bite-sized, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing. I like how quickly these come together when friends feel hungry. Snacks this easy make gatherings feel effortless yet memorable.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pig Shots

Air Fryer Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese with crispy topping, garnished with chopped green herbs and pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. — Air Fryer Marry Me Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Romance isn’t the only reason to try this Air Fryer Marry Me Chicken Casserole—quick prep and rich flavor matter too. Dinner becomes something everyone looks forward to when this hits the table. I’ve learned to make a little extra since leftovers always come in handy. Easy meals like this help make the week run smoother.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Air Fryer French Onion Soup

A close-up of baked French onion soup topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh thyme in a rustic bowl. — Air Fryer French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bowls of this Air Fryer French Onion Soup make for an impressive, yet totally doable dinner. The cheese melts perfectly while everything else comes together fast. Friends love the warm aroma drifting from the kitchen before the first spoonful. I appreciate how something so comforting stays simple in the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Soup

Air Fryer Pizza Casserole

A slice of cheesy pepperoni pizza being lifted, with melted cheese stretching. — Air Fryer Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Anyone who craves pizza flavor but loves quick dinners will be drawn to this Air Fryer Pizza Casserole. Each bite gives you that same joy of a slice without waiting around. Kids especially get a kick out of helping make it. I recommend serving it with a simple salad and calling it a meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Casserole

Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie Soup

A pot of creamy chicken stew with peas, corn, potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and herbs. — Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm soup on busy nights is easy with this Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Creamy and hearty, it’s great for people who want comfort without hassle. I serve this when schedules are tight—it’s a guaranteed way to keep everyone happy. Less cleanup means more time for relaxing after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

A plate with a biscuit topped with creamy sausage gravy, accompanied by a fork and knife. — Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Southern classics don’t need a lot of fuss, especially with this Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Every scoop packs in warmth and nostalgia with a modern twist. I reach for this when craving comfort but short on time. Company always asks for seconds and the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Air Fryer Tiramisu Cookies

Close-up of cookies topped with piped cream and dusted with cocoa powder, arranged on a white surface. — Air Fryer Tiramisu Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Desserts are often a mess, but these Air Fryer Tiramisu Cookies make things easy and sweet. Each one has a rich coffee taste with a surprise creamy finish. Friends go back for a second cookie every time without fail. You’ll be amazed how quick dessert night can be.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tiramisu Cookies

Cheesy Air Fryer Mexican Casserole

A plate with a serving of cheesy casserole containing ground meat, beans, and chopped herbs, accompanied by a fork and knife. A lime wedge is partially visible on the side. — Cheesy Air Fryer Mexican Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dinners with bold flavor and easy clean-up get my vote, like this Cheesy Air Fryer Mexican Casserole. Layers bake together with just the right amount of gooeyness. I bring this out when craving Mexican food that’s both quick and budget-friendly. Smiles tend to multiply around the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Air Fryer Mexican Casserole

Air Fryer Bread Pudding

A close-up of bread pudding topped with creamy vanilla sauce in a white baking dish. The pudding features toasted bread pieces and visible raisins. — Air Fryer Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert after dinner doesn’t need to be complicated, especially with this Air Fryer Bread Pudding. Soft, warm bites become an instant comfort for sweet cravings. I look forward to making this recipe every chance I get. The air fryer helps keep cleanup easy while everyone digs in.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bread Pudding

Air Fryer Baked Ziti

Close-up of baked ziti pasta with tomato sauce, ground meat, melted cheese, and sprinkled herbs. — Air Fryer Baked Ziti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Pasta bakes gain new life with this Air Fryer Baked Ziti, making quick comfort food easy. You’ll get bubbly, cheesy goodness in no time and with little cleanup. I use this recipe as my go-to for busy nights with a crowd. Serving something so hearty feels good, especially without a stressful kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Ziti

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.

Classic dishes with modern flair, like this Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake, impress guests without fuss. Outside stays crispy while the inside is light and fresh. I’ve found that making these at home feels special, even when you’re short on time. Lower effort never means less flavor with this air fryer trick.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Maryland Crab Cake

Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

A hand picks a golden-brown, crispy fried ball from a bowl containing similar fried balls against a dark background. — Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crowd-pleasing snacks just got simpler thanks to these Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites. A touch of heat and crunchy finish make them hard to resist. I keep this recipe ready for game day or when friends drop by. Plates are usually cleared way before halftime.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

Flaky Air Fryer Cod

Image of cooked air fryer cod fillets seasoned with herbs and garnished with lemon wedges and parsley on a plate. — Flaky Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seafood doesn’t have to be tricky, and this Flaky Air Fryer Cod proves it. The tender center and crisp edges have everyone asking for details on how you did it. I especially like how messes stay small and results stay big. Even those who say they never cook fish get hooked on the simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Air Fryer Cod

Air Fryer Pecan Pie Cobbler

Close-up of a dessert with caramelized pecans and two scoops of ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce in an oval dish. — Air Fryer Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Holidays and family get-togethers call for a dessert like this Air Fryer Pecan Pie Cobbler. Warm, gooey layers remind people of special occasions, but it’s simple enough for any night. I like how the air fryer takes away the wait and delivers sweet smells with little effort. Leftovers are rare, so don’t count on any.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pecan Pie Cobbler

Air Fryer Chili Relleno Casserole

Close-up of a slice of layered casserole with ground meat, cheese, and vegetables on a plate with a fork. — Air Fryer Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you love bold flavors, you’ll find a winner in this Air Fryer Chili Relleno Casserole. Rich and cheesy yet surprisingly simple, it becomes a staple after the first try. I serve this up when I want something hearty but stress-free. Every piece disappears quickly as people line up for a slice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chili Relleno Casserole

Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes

Close-up of several red velvet cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting and red cake crumbs, arranged in rows on a surface. — Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Parties never feel complete without dessert, and these Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes step up to the plate fast. Moist and chocolatey, they seem much fancier than the work involved. I use this recipe when birthdays sneak up and there’s barely time to bake. Nobody guesses how easy they really are.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes

Air Fryer Corn Chowder

A bowl of vegetable chowder with potatoes, corn, celery, and peppers, topped with black pepper and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with a celery leaf. — Air Fryer Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cozy bowls of this Air Fryer Corn Chowder bring comfort with an easy, no-fuss finish. Creaminess and sweet corn blend together in record time, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners. I appreciate how simple meals can still feel homemade. Each bowl warms you up without the usual time at the stove.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn Chowder

Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

A bowl with rice, glazed chicken pieces, sliced avocado, edamame, shredded carrots, seaweed, and sesame seeds. — Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Quick dinners like this Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl help busy nights end on a healthy note. Savory, tender, and with just the right shine, it’s a hit for anyone who wants flavor in a hurry. I like bringing a little restaurant flair to my home without much work. Meals like this keep the whole family happy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

A close-up of a chocolate frosted cookie with swirl icing on a white surface, reminiscent of Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies and surrounded by crumbs. — Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cravings for bakery-style treats get solved with these Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Soft, rich, and easy to make, they’re sure to please every chocolate lover at your table. I save this recipe for last-minute dessert needs since it’s ready so fast. You’ll want to keep the air fryer handy for future batches.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Close-up of several wrapped burritos on a table, with some cut open showing a filling of ground meat and sauce. Pieces of roasted potato and cilantro are scattered around. — Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat recipes like this Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito bring restaurant fun home with less hassle. All the favorite flavors show up without a long wait. I like surprising everyone with something both fast and hearty for dinner. Burritos come out hot and ready to feed a group in no time at all.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef and Potato Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Air Fryer Banana Pancakes

A stack of pancakes with banana slices between them, topped with syrup being poured from above. — Air Fryer Banana Pancakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Weekend mornings or breakfast-for-dinner get an upgrade from these Air Fryer Banana Pancakes. Golden edges and fluffy centers mean there’s always a line for more. I often double the batch, since leftovers are a treat later on. Clean-up feels so much easier, making this recipe a go-to for lazy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Banana Pancakes

Air Fryer Meatball Sliders

Close-up of cheese-stuffed sliders topped with herbs and crumbs, with one slider being lifted to reveal melted cheese stretching from the tray. — Air Fryer Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fun sliders take center stage with these Air Fryer Meatball Sliders, perfect for sharing with friends. You don’t need long to get gooey, savory bites wrapped up and ready. I serve these at any gathering where folks want to graze and chat. No one ever leaves hungry, and leftovers don’t stick around.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Meatball Sliders

Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

Classic comfort comes together fast with this Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Each bite is creamy with a hint of golden crisp on top. I whip this up anytime a dinner needs something special without any hassle. It’s amazing how a few simple steps make supper a real crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes