Air fryers have become a beloved appliance in many modern kitchens. They have gained popularity for their ability to cook a variety of foods in a healthier way than deep frying. If you are new to air fryers and wondering what types of foods you can cook, look no further. In this article, we will provide you with some easy and delicious recipes to try out.
From classic favorites such as chicken wings and french fries to healthier options like roasted vegetables and sweet potato fries, air fryers can cook a wide range of foods. You can even make donuts in an air fryer! The possibilities are endless.
One of the great advantages of using an air fryer is that it can save you time and effort. Air fryers cook food faster than ovens and require little to no preheating time. They also eliminate the need for excess oil, providing a healthier option for those who love fried foods.
If you’re curious about air fryer cooking, give it a try with one of our recommended recipes. You might discover a new favorite dish to add to your repertoire.
1. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Air fryer chicken wings are a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to prepare in your air fryer. To start, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Then season your chicken wings with your favorite spices and herbs. You can try a classic garlic and paprika seasoning or experiment with a spicy buffalo sauce. Place the chicken wings in the air fryer basket and cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result will be perfectly crispy and juicy chicken wings that are sure to impress your guests.
One of the best things about cooking chicken wings in the air fryer is that you can make a large batch without the need for gallons of oil. Plus, you don’t have to worry about disposing of used oil or cleaning up splatters on your stovetop. Air fryer chicken wings are a healthier and easier alternative to deep-fried wings and they taste just as delicious.
Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese, and enjoy them as an appetizer or as a main course with a side of veggies. Once you try air fryer chicken wings, they may become a regular feature on your dinner menu.
2. Air Fryer French Fries
Air fryer French fries are a great alternative to regular French fries and they’re guilt-free. All you need to do is slice your potatoes into the desired thickness, toss them with some olive oil and sea salt, and place them in the air fryer. Cook them on 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once they’re done, sprinkle some more sea salt on them and serve.
Not only are air fryer French fries healthier, but they’re also crispier than regular French fries. The hot air circulation in the air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
If you want to switch things up, try making sweet potato fries instead. Just slice your sweet potatoes, toss them in olive oil and sea salt, and cook them the same way you would regular French fries. They’re a tasty and nutritious alternative that will satisfy your cravings.
2.1 Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to regular French fries, sweet potato fries are a great option to try in your air fryer. Not only are they just as crispy and delicious as regular fries, but they also provide added nutrients.
To make sweet potato fries in an air fryer, start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into thin wedges. Toss them with a little bit of olive oil and your favorite seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them, and cook at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- Tips:
- Sweet potato fries cook faster than regular fries, so be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- For an extra crispy texture, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to your sweet potatoes before cooking them in the air fryer.
With a little experimentation, you can find the perfect seasonings and cooking time to make delicious sweet potato fries in your air fryer. They make a great side dish or snack option for any occasion.
3. Air Fryer Fish
If you’re a fish lover, you’ll be glad to know that air fryers can also cook your favorite seafood dishes. Air fryer fish is a healthier alternative to traditional fish frying methods, as it doesn’t require any added grease. Plus, it’s easy to get perfectly crispy and flavorful results every time.
One simple recipe to try is lemon and herb air fryer fish. Start by seasoning your fish fillets with salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice, and dried herbs like thyme and oregano. Then, place them in your air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes at 380°F. The result is a delicious and healthy dinner option that’s full of flavor.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also try air fryer shrimp. Toss your shrimp in a mixture of bread crumbs, garlic powder, and paprika, and then cook them in the air fryer at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Serve with some lemon wedges for a delicious appetizer or meal.
With an air fryer, there are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking seafood. So next time you’re craving fish or shrimp, give your air fryer a try and see how easy and delicious it can be.
3.1 Shrimp
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be happy to know that shrimp can be easily cooked in an air fryer. The key is to season them with your favorite spices and toss them with bread crumbs for an extra crunch.
Here’s a simple recipe to try:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they are fully coated.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and toss again to evenly distribute the oil.
4. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time, or until the shrimp are crispy and cooked through.
This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or meal. You can also try different seasoning blends or dip the shrimp in your favorite sauce for added flavor.
4. Air Fryer Vegetables
If you’re looking for an easy and healthy side dish, air fryer vegetables are a great option. Not only are they tasty, but they also retain more nutrients than vegetables that are boiled or fried. Some great vegetables to try in your air fryer include broccoli, cauliflower, and asparagus.
To prepare these vegetables, simply wash and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Then, toss them with some olive oil and seasonings of your choice (such as garlic powder, salt, and pepper). Place them in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
You can also try experimenting with different vegetables and seasoning combinations. For example, you can roast sweet potatoes in the air fryer and sprinkle them with cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet and savory dish. Or, try tossing brussel sprouts with balsamic vinegar and honey for a flavorful twist.
Overall, air fryer vegetables are a simple and healthy addition to any meal. They’re a great way to add some extra fiber and nutrients to your diet without sacrificing flavor.
4.1 Brussel Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a nutritious and delicious vegetable that can easily be made in an air fryer. To make roasted Brussels sprouts in an air fryer, simply toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook them at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your Brussels sprouts, try tossing them with some balsamic vinegar and honey before placing them in the air fryer. This will give them a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts. You can also add other spices or seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking.
Brussels sprouts are a great side dish to serve with any meal, and air frying them makes it a quick and easy option. They are also packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Try making roasted Brussels sprouts in your air fryer and see for yourself how delicious they can be.
5. Air Fryer Donuts
Donuts may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of air fryer cooking, but they can be a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep fried donuts. To make air fryer donuts, start by making a simple dough using flour, sugar, yeast, and milk. Let the dough rise, then use a donut cutter to shape the dough into donuts.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and lightly coat the donuts with cooking spray. Cook the donuts in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once they are done, let them cool for a few minutes before topping them with your favorite glaze or frosting.
There are many different ways to customize your air fryer donuts. Try adding different flavors to the dough, such as cinnamon or vanilla extract, or experiment with different toppings like sprinkles or chocolate chips. With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless!
5.1 Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Are you craving something sweet but want to keep it healthy? Try making cinnamon sugar donut holes in your air fryer. These tasty treats are easy to make and will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. To make them, simply mix together some flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar in a bowl. Then add in some milk, egg, and melted butter and mix until combined.
Using a small cookie scoop, form the dough into small balls and place them in your air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes at 350°F until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, roll them in a cinnamon sugar mixture and enjoy!
If you prefer a more indulgent option, you can also fill them with a cream cheese filling for an extra special treat. These cinnamon sugar donut holes are a perfect breakfast or dessert option and can be made in just minutes in your air fryer.
There are countless recipes and meal options when it comes to air fryer cooking. With a little experimentation, you can find your favorite dishes to make in your air fryer.
If you’re looking for inspiration for what to cook in your air fryer, the possibilities are endless. From classic recipes like chicken wings and french fries to more unique options like donuts and brussel sprouts, there is no shortage of delicious meals to be made.
Experimentation is key when it comes to air fryer cooking. Try different seasonings and cooking times to find your perfect recipe. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and try new foods in your air fryer. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite dish.
Some tips for air fryer cooking include preheating the air fryer before adding in your food, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking, and not overcrowding the basket. With these simple tips and a little creativity, the possibilities for delicious meals in your air fryer are endless.
