13 Easy & Surprising Air Fryer Recipes You Must Try

Can an air fryer really save you money? The short answer is yes. Because air fryers use less electricity and reduce cooking time due to their smaller volume, you can save $0.36 per kilowatt/hour by using your air fryer instead of the oven. To keep your machine in shape, learn how to clean an air fryer and air fryer mistakes to avoid. Now let’s dig into the savings a little more before we start sharing our fave air fryer recipes.

We’re going to assume that you have an electric range that uses around 3,000 watts of electricity (the average electric oven uses between 2,000 and 5,000 watts). Cooking a recipe in the oven for one hour, you’re looking at about 3 kilowatt-hours of electricity — (3,000 watts x 1 hour) ÷ 1000. Taking into account that the air fryer cooks more quickly and uses 1,500 watts of electricity, the air fryer uses just 0.75 kilowatt-hours — (1,500 watts x 0.5 hours) ÷ 1000.

As of Aug. 2023, the average residential electricity rate in the U.S. is 15.93 cents per kilowatt-hour, so the average oven costs about $0.48 per hour to use. Alternatively, an air fryer uses $0.12 per hour of use, a $0.36 savings.

Can an air fryer replace your oven? No, that’s not likely. But these 13 easy and surprising things to make in an air fryer can save on your electric bill (and cut down on food waste).

If you want to get into the air fryer craze. . . stalk our air fryer deals daily for coupons and sales, and download the KCL app for more savings. Then, check out these air fryer easy recipes you probably didn’t know you could make.

For more smart shopping tips and savings hacks, text HACKS to 57299, and be sure to download the Krazy Coupon Lady app.

 

What To Make In an Air Fryer 101

Air fryers excel at cooking foods that benefit from crispiness, like french fries, chicken wings, and onion rings. They’re also great for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen snacks, roasting vegetables, and making crispy-skinned meats. Many air fryer recipes use less oil, making it a versatile and healthier cooking option.

Here are a few air fryer tips and tricks to get the absolute most out of this kitchen appliance.

Salvage Leftover French Fries

An air fryer is the key to actually enjoying leftover french fries. Bringing home leftovers from restaurants is a great money-saver. It also helps with food waste, but leftover fries aren’t always as satisfying the second time around. Heat them up in the air fryer at 350 degrees for just 3 – 5 minutes (shaking them in the basket every two minutes or so). They’ll be just as crispy and delicious as they were the first time.

Warm or Toast Large Bagels

Toasting a bagel in an air fryer yields a crisp, golden exterior with a warm, soft center. Plus, the air fryer can toast bigger bagels that just won’t fit in a toaster slot. Set the air fryer to 350°F, preheat, and enjoy a quick, evenly toasted bagel in minutes.

Hard “Boil” Eggs Without the Water

Hard boiling eggs in an air fryer eliminates the need for a stove, boiling water, and constant monitoring. Just pre-heat the air fryer to 250 degrees and cook for about 17 minutes for a hard-boiled egg. You can also do soft-boiled eggs at 13 minutes or a medium boil at 15 minutes.

Make Cookies in Half the Time

Air fryers can bake too. Plus, they bake even faster so you can enjoy cookies in just a few minutes. Preheat the air fryer according to the recipe instructions — we even recommend subtracting 25 degrees to avoid overcooking. Next, line your frying basket with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze,. Then, bake for about half the time of the original instructions. Remove the cookies when the edges begin to brown and the center is just set (around 5 minutes for most cookie recipes).

Avoid Grease Splashes with Air Fryer Bacon

Make mess-free bacon in half the time. Cooking bacon in the oven is a life-changing hack in itself, but making it in the air fryer cuts down on mess and cooks super fast. Preheat to 350 degrees and place bacon in a single layer. Cook thin bacon for 7-9 minutes and thick back for 9-12 minutes.

 

Air Fryer Recipes Made Easy

Now that we’ve covered the best things to make in the air fryer, here are a few tips to keep your machine in tip-top shape to make the best air fryer recipes.

1. Always pre-heat before you start cooking. This ensures even heat distribution and safe cooking temperatures.
2. Clean the air fryer after each use to prevent residue buildup. Remove and hand wash the basket, tray, and other removable parts. Finally, wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth.
3. Don’t overcrowd the basket or tray. Leave enough space for proper air circulation, which ensures even cooking and prevents overheating.
4. Line the basket or tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil to simplify cleanup and prevent sticking, but be sure it’s safe for air frying.
5. Lightly spray or brush food with oil to promote browning and crispiness. Use a cooking spray or a brush to apply a thin, even layer.
6. For foods that require turning or flipping during cooking (e.g., fries or chicken), do so at the halfway point to ensure uniform browning.
7. Occasionally check the air fryer’s heating element and fan for any signs of wear or damage. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance, including any recommended cleaning of these components.

 

1. Cinnamon Rolls Air Fryer Recipe

The best air fryer recipes involve desserts for obvious reasons. Plus, who doesn’t like ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls — especially when they only take 10 minutes to make in the air fryer?

Ingredients:

• 1 can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls
• Cooking spray (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for a few minutes.
2. While the air fryer is heating up, open the can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and separate them.
3. If your air fryer tends to stick, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray, but this is optional.
4. Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket or on the tray, leaving some space between them for expansion.
5. Air fry the cinnamon rolls at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
6. Once done, remove the cinnamon rolls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
7. While they’re still warm, drizzle the included icing over the cinnamon rolls and serve.

 

2. Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

These air-fried jalapeño poppers are deliciously crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside with a hint of spice.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 fresh jalapeño peppers
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Start by wearing gloves to handle the jalapeño peppers to avoid getting the spicy oils on your skin. Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise, then remove the seeds and membranes. This step will help reduce the heat of the poppers.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly filled.
4. Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Next, dip each stuffed jalapeño half into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the cream cheese mixture. Repeat for all jalapeño halves.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes.
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
7. Arrange the stuffed jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray, making sure they are not touching.
8. Air fry the poppers at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the jalapeños have softened.
9. Once done, remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or salsa.

 

3. Crunchy Sushi Rolls

This is one of our favorite unique air fryer recipes. These air-fried crunchy sushi rolls are a twist on traditional sushi, with a crispy exterior and a flavorful, customizable interior. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings.

Ingredients:

• 4 sheets of nori seaweed
• 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt
• 4-6 sushi fillings of your choice (e.g., avocado, cucumber, imitation crab, smoked salmon, cream cheese)
• Tempura batter (prepared according to package instructions)
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Lay a bamboo sushi rolling mat on a clean surface. Next, place a sheet of plastic wrap on top. Then, lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on the plastic wrap.
2. Wet your fingers with water to prevent sticking, and spread a thin layer of sushi rice evenly over the nori. Leave about 1 inch at the top edge.
3. Add your choice of sushi fillings in a line, slightly below the center of the rice.
4. Carefully lift the bamboo mat and plastic wrap, rolling the nori and rice over the fillings. Roll it tightly, applying gentle pressure to shape it into a cylinder.
5. Prepare a tempura batter according to the package instructions.
6. Dip the sushi roll into the tempura batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
7. Roll the battered sushi roll in panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere the crumbs.
8. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes.
9. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
10. Place the sushi roll in the air fryer basket or on the tray, seam side down.
11. Air fry the sushi roll at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until the tempura coating is crispy and golden brown.
12. Carefully remove the air-fried sushi roll from the air fryer, and let it cool for a minute or two.
13. Slice the crunchy sushi roll into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife.
14. Serve your air-fried crunchy sushi rolls with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi for dipping.

 

4. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

These air-fried coconut shrimp are crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, making for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, and deveined
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray

Ingredients:

1. In three separate bowls, prepare your breading station. For the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. Then, for the third bowl, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs. Season the breadcrumb mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Take each shrimp and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp in the coconut and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating. Place the coated shrimp on a plate or tray.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
5. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray, ensuring they are not touching.
6. Air fry the coconut shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the shrimp are cooked through. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
7. Once done, remove the coconut shrimp from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two.
8. Serve your air-fried coconut shrimp with your favorite dipping sauce.

 

 

5. Air Fryer Chocolate Cake

Warning: this isn’t one of the healthiest air fryer recipes. Even though this cake is air-fried, it comes out extremely moist!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Next, in another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is well combined.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for a few minutes.
5. Grease a 6-inch round cake pan that fits inside your air fryer basket with cooking spray or butter.
6. Pour the cake batter into the greased cake pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Place the cake pan in the preheated air fryer basket.
8. Air fry the chocolate cake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. While the cake is cooking, you can prepare the optional glaze. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Then, stir in the powdered sugar and enough milk to reach your desired glaze consistency.
10. Once the cake is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Slice and serve your delicious air-fried chocolate cake.

 

6. Tortilla Chips Air Fryer Recipes

These air-fried tortilla chips are a healthier alternative to store-bought chips and can be customized with your choice of seasonings for added flavor. They make a great snack or accompaniment for salsa, guacamole, or queso.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 small corn tortillas
• Cooking spray (olive oil or non-stick spray)
• Salt, to taste
• Optional seasonings (e.g., chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, or lime zest)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
2. While the air fryer is heating up, stack the corn tortillas and cut them into wedges, like you would for traditional tortilla chips.
3. Arrange the tortilla wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray, making sure they are not overlapping.
4. Lightly spray the tortilla wedges with cooking spray to help them crisp during cooking. You can also sprinkle a little salt over them and add any optional seasonings for flavor.
5. Air fry the tortilla chips at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness. Keep a close eye on them as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
6. Once the tortilla chips are golden brown and crisp, remove them from the air fryer.
7. Let the chips cool for a few minutes before serving.

 

7. Air Fryer Banana S’mores

What can you make in an air fryer, you ask? S’mores! These air-fried banana s’mores are a family-friendly twist on the classic campfire treat, and they’re quick to make in your air fryer. Don’t let the black peel scare you — it’s supposed to look like that!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 4 large marshmallows
• 4 squares of chocolate (milk chocolate or your favorite type)
• 2 whole graham crackers, broken into squares

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for a few minutes.
2. While the air fryer is heating up, peel the bananas and cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Place a marshmallow, a square of chocolate, and a graham cracker square on the cut side of each banana half.
4. Carefully sandwich each banana half with another banana half to create a “banana boat” filled with marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers.
5. Lightly coat the banana boats with cooking spray to help them become crispy during cooking.
6. Place the prepared banana boats in the air fryer basket or on the tray.
7. Air fry the banana s’mores at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the chocolate has melted.
8. Once done, carefully remove the banana s’mores from the air fryer.
9. Let them cool for a minute or two, as they will be very hot.

 

8. Air Fryer Taquitos

These air-fried taquitos are delicious, crispy, and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack. And they only take 10 minutes to get ’em golden brown and crispy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or ground chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, Monterey Jack)
• 12 small flour tortillas
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or chicken and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked meat mixture. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another minute. Remove from heat.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
4. Place a tortilla on a clean surface, and spoon a portion of the meat mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top.
5. Roll up the tortilla tightly, securing the filling inside. Place it seam-side down on a plate. Repeat this process for the remaining tortillas.
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
7. Place the rolled-up taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray, making sure they are not touching.
8. Air fry the taquitos at 400°F for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Once done, remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two.
10. Serve your air-fried taquitos with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce.

 

9. Stuffed Burgers Air Fryer Recipes

These air-fried stuffed burgers are juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Even better, they’re ready within 20 minutes! Can you tell we love quick and easy air fryer recipes?

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices of cheese (e.g., cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced mushrooms (optional)
• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments for serving

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. If you like, you can also mix in the diced onions and mushrooms to add extra flavor.
2. Divide the seasoned ground beef into 8 equal portions.
3. Flatten one portion of the beef into a thin patty. Place a slice of cheese in the center, then top it with another portion of beef. Seal the edges of the two patties together to encase the cheese. Repeat this process to make 4 stuffed burger patties.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Place the stuffed burger patties in the air fryer basket or on the tray, making sure they are not touching.
7. Air fry the stuffed burgers at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness (medium-rare, medium, or well-done).
8. Toast the burger buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes, if desired.
9. Once the stuffed burgers are done, remove them from the air fryer.
10. Assemble your stuffed burgers by placing each patty on a toasted bun and adding your favorite fixings.

RELATED: Meat coupons are rare, so if you see prices are more than 25% off at your local store, stock up!

 

 

10. Blueberry Lemon Muffins Air Fryer Recipe

These air-fried blueberry lemon muffins are moist, tender, and bursting with fruity flavors. They take just about 12 minutes to bake.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Using another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Gently fold in the blueberries.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F for a few minutes.
6. Line the muffin cups of an air fryer-friendly muffin pan with paper liners or silicone liners.
7. Spoon the muffin batter into the lined muffin cups, filling them about two-thirds full.
8. Place the muffin pan in the preheated air fryer basket.
9. Air fry the muffins at 325°F for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
10. Carefully remove the muffins from the air fryer and let them cool in the muffin pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

11. Fried Pickles Air Fryer Recipe

These air-fried fried pickles are crunchy and tangy, and make a fantastic appetizer or snack. Enjoy the delicious flavor and texture without the deep-frying.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dill pickle slices (about 1/4-inch thick)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 large eggs
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for a few minutes.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Then, In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
4. Dip each pickle slice into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Coat the pickle slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Repeat this process for all pickle slices.
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
7. Arrange the coated pickle slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray. Make sure they are not touching.
8. Air fry the pickle slices at 400°F for 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
9. While the pickle slices are cooking, you can prepare the optional dipping sauce by mixing the ranch dressing with hot sauce. Adjust the heat to your liking.
10. Once done, remove the fried pickles from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

 

12. Air Fryer Banana Bread Muffins

This is one of the air fryer recipes that you can customize with your choice of add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Large egg
• Teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• Teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the melted and cooled butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter.
6. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F for a few minutes.
7. Line the muffin cups of an air fryer-friendly muffin pan with paper liners or silicone liners.
8. Spoon the banana bread muffin batter into the lined muffin cups, filling them about two-thirds full.
9. Place the muffin pan in the preheated air fryer basket.
10. Air fry the muffins at 325°F for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
11. Carefully remove the muffins from the air fryer and let them cool in the muffin pan for a few minutes.
12. Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

13. Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Bread

These air-fried cheese garlic bread slices are loaded with savory, garlicky goodness and ooey-gooey cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette or French bread loaf
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for a few minutes.
2. While the air fryer is heating up, slice the baguette or French bread loaf in half lengthwise.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix until well blended. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic butter-coated bread.
6. Place the prepared garlic bread halves in the air fryer basket or on the tray, cut side up.
7. Air fry the garlic bread at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are crispy and golden brown.
8. Once done, carefully remove the garlic bread from the air fryer.
9. Let it cool for a minute or two, as it will be very hot.
10. Slice the cheesy garlic bread into individual portions.

Do you have any favorite air fryer recipes we didn’t cover? Let us know!