When I Was Running on Empty, 15 Air Fryer Mains Still Delivered

Some days feel like one long list of things that didn’t get done, and cooking is usually at the bottom of it. These 15 air fryer mains stepped in when energy was low and time felt nonexistent. No extra steps, no sink full of dishes waiting to ambush you later.

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.

Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole

Baked pasta in a white dish, topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with parsley.
Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for a meal that combines comfort and convenience, Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole is a great choice. This dish has a hearty and filling nature that makes it an easy go-to for any busy evening. Cooking it in the air fryer is quick, which saves you time without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Noodle Casserole

Air Fryer Shrimp

A close-up shot of seasoned, air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Want something quick but delicious? Air Fryer Shrimp delivers a reliable meal option that’s ready in no time. Every bite has that signature texture air frying is known for, making this a standout for seafood fans. Whether paired with a side or enjoyed by itself, this recipe adds a pop of variety to your mealtime routine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

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.

Craving something warm and filling? Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole is a clever way to enjoy a hearty dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. Cooking in the air fryer ensures the flavors come together nicely while saving you effort. Perfect for those moments when you need comfort without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ravioli Casserole

Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of honey walnut shrimp topped with green onions.
Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a mix of sweet and savory in minimal time, Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp does the trick. The air fryer simplifies the process, making it easier to enjoy this flavorful shrimp dish anytime. It’s a thoughtful choice when you’re juggling a busy schedule but still want a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Walnut Shrimp

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.

Busy evenings call for meals that don’t let you down, like Air Fryer Meatball Sliders. These sliders are quick to prepare yet make a lovely meal, whether for a crowd or dinner for two. Using the air fryer ensures everything cooks just right without hassle. They’re always a hit, no matter the occasion or craving at hand.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Meatball Sliders

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

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

If flaky seafood is on your mind, Crispy Air Fryer Cod is worth considering. Cooking cod in the air fryer yields a satisfying crunch without the need for tricky techniques. It’s an easy fix when you want something light yet filling for mealtime. This recipe simplifies seafood while keeping it enjoyable and approachable.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

A close-up of a lasagna slice being lifted from a baking dish, showing layers of pasta, meat sauce, cheese, and garnished with herbs.
Easy Air Fryer Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something about lasagna that feels like a bit of a cozy hug, and Easy Air Fryer Lasagna delivers just that. Using the air fryer keeps prep straightforward while ensuring it’s ready quickly. It’s a practical choice when you’re craving layers of goodness without the traditional oven approach.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lasagna

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

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

Looking for an option that’s filling but doesn’t require much effort? Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers fit the bill with their ready-to-go convenience. The air fryer speeds things up while letting everything cook thoroughly. These peppers work well whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping ahead for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole

A close-up of a baking dish filled with breaded, cheese-covered chicken pieces garnished with chopped herbs, reminiscent of an elevated air fryer tater tot casserole.
Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Comfort food has never been easier than with Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole, which combines hearty flavors into one dish. This recipe is perfect for days when you want something more satisfying than usual without overcomplicating the cooking process. The air fryer ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole

Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate.
Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need something quick for lunch or dinner, Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich works like a charm. The outside turns perfectly crispy, giving this sandwich a next-level texture every time. It’s an easy and practical choice for busy days when time feels too short. Simple, enjoyable, and surprisingly easy to whip up anytime.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Air Fryer Million Dollar Casserole

A plate of creamy chicken casserole topped with breadcrumbs and parsley, with a fork beside it.
Air Fryer Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a recipe that brings everything together, Air Fryer Million Dollar Casserole offers a rich and filling option. Making it in the air fryer helps save time, letting you focus more on enjoying the meal than effort. It’s a great pick for family dinners or inviting company over. You’ll keep coming back to it for how simple it turns out.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Million Dollar Casserole

Air Fryer Pork Chops

Close-up of seasoned and cooked air fryer pork chops, garnished with herbs and cracked black pepper.
Air Fryer Pork Chops. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Lean and hearty meals are always appreciated, and Air Fryer Pork Chops deliver in both flavor and ease of preparation. The air fryer makes them wonderfully tender while cutting down on time spent in the kitchen. This dish is a classic option for balancing simplicity with a filling result.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced, seasoned, roasted turkey breast on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want a light option that doesn’t lack in heartiness, Air Fryer Turkey Breast is a fantastic recipe to lean on. The air fryer helps ensure the turkey stays juicy without needing an oven. It’s a thoughtful choice for dinner without the fuss of traditional roasting techniques. You’ll appreciate the simplicity it brings to mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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

For a fan-favorite with timeless appeal, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are hard to beat. Cooking them in the air fryer gives great texture in less time than traditional methods. This recipe strikes the perfect balance for those nights when you want something quick yet hearty.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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.

When you need a meal that checks all the boxes for flavor and speed, Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl is the way to go. Using the air fryer simplifies salmon prep, letting you enjoy a balanced bowl fuss-free. Great for days when a complete, fulfilling meal feels like a priority.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowl

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