10 Surprising Dishes You Can Make in an Air Fryer

Did you get an air fryer for Christmas? You might be surprised by how many delicious dishes it can prepare. Whether you’re using a countertop air fryer or an air fryer lid, the cook times and temperatures for these ideas are the same. Below are tasty recipes and crowd-pleasing sides that are quick, easy, and ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Four slices of pepperoni French bread pizza topped with melted cheese and chopped parsley on a white surface.

Air Fryer French Bread Pizza

5 from 2 votes

This easy family meal features a fresh loaf of French bread topped with melty cheese and your favorite pizza toppings. It’s fast to assemble and crisps beautifully in the air fryer.

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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters on a plate topped with dill sour cream dip.

Zucchini Fritters Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Fresh shredded zucchini combined with simple ingredients makes crispy fritters that are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side. The air fryer keeps them crisp without excess oil.

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A white plate with a cooked pork chop, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Two additional plates with similar servings are partially visible.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Juicy pork chops come together with just a few ingredients and a short cook time. The air fryer seals in flavor while delivering a nicely browned exterior.

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Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

5 from 1 vote

Brussels sprouts become tender inside and crisp outside when roasted in the air fryer. A few pantry ingredients are all you need for a standout side dish.

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A platter of golden-brown coconut shrimp arranged around two small bowls of red dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

5 from 1 vote

Coconut shrimp turns out crispy and golden in the air fryer using a straightforward breading method. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

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Air Fryer Asparagus

5 from 1 vote

Roasting asparagus in the air fryer is quick and reliable. The stalks cook evenly and retain bright color and a tender-crisp texture—great with a squeeze of lemon or grated cheese.

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Air Fryer Hot Dogs on a table with toppings

Air Fryer Hot Dogs Recipe

Air frying hot dogs yields juicy results without firing up the grill. They cook quickly and get a nicely browned exterior—perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.

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Cube steaks topped with creamy white gravy, garnished with fresh rosemary, served on a white oval plate with a yellow napkin beside it.

Air Fryer Cube Steak with Gravy Recipe

5 from 1 vote

A budget-friendly comfort meal: crispy cube steak finished with savory gravy. The air fryer delivers a crisp exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

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A white bowl filled with roasted broccoli florets topped with grated cheese, set on a light-colored surface.

Air Fryer Parmesan Broccoli Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Parmesan broccoli is an easy, affordable side that roasts quickly in the air fryer. A light coating of oil and seasoning gives great flavor and texture.

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A pan of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings with two sauces on the side and chopped celery and carrots in the background.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings Recipe

4.91 from 11 votes

Crispy garlic parmesan wings come together with a handful of seasonings and the air fryer’s high heat. They’re ideal for game day, parties, or a satisfying weeknight treat.

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Tell us in the comments which of these dishes you already knew the air fryer could make and which ones surprised you. We love hearing your favorites and any creative variations you try!