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    Home / Roundups

    30 Air Fryer Recipes That Put Dinner on Autopilot

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Oct 20, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When I'm short on time but still want a meal that feels home-cooked, the air fryer always comes to the rescue. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and turns out perfectly crisp, juicy, and flavorful dishes with almost no effort. I love how it makes weeknight dinners feel easier while still keeping every meal worth looking forward to.

    Grilled salmon fillet on a white plate garnished with lemon slices and dill, next to a red checkered cloth and a fork.Pin
    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bite-sized salmon pieces wrapped in bacon cook up crisp and flavorful in minutes. The air fryer handles the work, giving you perfectly cooked fish without the mess. They're great for quick dinners or appetizers that feel a bit special. The balance of smoky and fresh flavors keeps things interesting without much effort. It's an easy option for when you want dinner to practically make itself.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    S'mores Dip

    A hand holding a graham cracker dipped in s'mores dip with more crackers and dip in the background.Pin
    S’mores Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This air fryer s'mores dip gives you all the fun of campfire s'mores without stepping outside. It melts together in minutes and comes out warm and gooey. You only need a few ingredients, making it a simple treat for any evening. The air fryer keeps cleanup easy and quick. Perfect for when you want a sweet finish without turning on the oven.
    Get the Recipe: S'mores Dip

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

    A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.Pin
    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These smashed potatoes turn golden and crisp on the outside while staying soft inside. The air fryer makes them come together faster than roasting in the oven. They're great for pairing with almost any main dish. With minimal oil and hands-off cooking, they're perfect for busy nights. A simple way to make a comforting side that cooks itself while you focus on the rest of dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

    Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley.Pin
    Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Potato wedges in the air fryer come out crisp, evenly cooked, and ready in less time than baking. They're easy to season and pair well with just about anything. The air fryer gives that perfect crunch without needing much oil. This recipe makes it easy to add a crowd-pleasing side to any meal. A reliable go-to for hands-off cooking that still feels homey.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    Candied Almonds

    A bowl of candied almonds on a wooden table, with a red and white checkered napkin partially visible.Pin
    Candied Almonds. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These candied almonds cook up quickly in the air fryer with a sweet crunch and toasty flavor. They're great for snacking, gifting, or adding to desserts. The short cooking time makes them easy to prepare anytime. The air fryer keeps the process simple and mess-free. It's a convenient way to make a homemade treat without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Candied Almonds

    Air Fryer Lumpia

    Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.Pin
    Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Lumpia in the air fryer come out crispy and golden without deep frying. They cook fast, making them great for family dinners or party snacks. The air fryer gives you that perfect texture while keeping things simple. Cleanup stays minimal, so you can enjoy more and worry less. A great choice for when you want that crunchy bite with hardly any work.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

    Grilled salmon fillet on a white plate garnished with lemon slices and dill, next to a red checkered cloth and a fork.Pin
    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    The air fryer makes cooking frozen salmon quick and easy with great results every time. The fish turns out flaky and full of flavor without needing to thaw. It's perfect for nights when you forget to plan ahead. With minimal prep, dinner is ready in under 20 minutes. This method keeps things simple and hands-free, ideal for busy evenings.
    Get the Recipe: Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    A plate of freshly cooked Filipino banana turon lumpia spring rolls.Pin
    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These sweet banana-filled rolls turn golden and crisp in the air fryer. They're simple to make and perfect for dessert or a quick snack. The air fryer keeps them light while giving that perfect crunch. You get all the familiar flavor without standing over a hot pan. It's a fun and easy way to enjoy something homemade with little effort.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    Frozen Pot Pie

    Pot pie on plate with fork in middle.Pin
    Frozen Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Cooking a frozen pot pie in the air fryer gives it a crisp crust and warm filling in less time. It's an easy meal option for when you want comfort food without waiting on the oven. The air fryer keeps it evenly heated with no soggy bottom. Perfect for single servings or busy weeknights. It's a no-fuss dinner that still feels hearty and homey.
    Get the Recipe: Frozen Pot Pie

    Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

    A plate of jalapeño poppers on a table.Pin
    Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These jalapeño poppers turn perfectly crisp and creamy in the air fryer. They cook quickly, making them great for snacks or casual get-togethers. The air fryer keeps the coating crunchy while the filling stays smooth. You can make a batch without heating the whole kitchen. It's an easy way to add something fun to the table with almost no effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter.Pin
    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This ham comes out tender and caramelized with a light orange glaze that adds a touch of sweetness. The air fryer does all the work, keeping the meat juicy and the cleanup easy. It's perfect for holidays or simple family dinners. The glaze adds warmth and balance without being heavy. This is a great option when you want a main dish that practically cooks itself.
    Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Salmon Bowl

    A bowl of white rice topped with glazed salmon, sliced cucumbers, corn, tomato wedges, and a drizzle of orange sauce, with chopsticks picking up a piece of salmon.Pin
    Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A salmon bowl made with air-fried fish feels fresh, balanced, and easy to put together. The air fryer gives the salmon a crisp edge while keeping it flaky inside. It's perfect for quick dinners that still feel wholesome and filling. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins without much extra prep. A simple meal that feels complete with hardly any effort.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Bowl

    Crab Melt

    Two plates of crab melt with sliced tomatoes and melted cheese, garnished with lemon slices on a white wooden surface.Pin
    Crab Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crab melts turn golden and bubbly in the air fryer for an easy lunch or light dinner. The air fryer keeps the bread crisp and the filling warm without drying it out. They're quick to assemble and even quicker to cook. Perfect when you want something warm and cheesy without a lot of cleanup. It's a go-to option for fast, no-stress meals.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

    Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

    Close-up of a pastry topped with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.Pin
    Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These puff pastry bites bake up crisp and flaky in the air fryer with a sweet and creamy filling. They're a great choice for holiday snacks or quick appetizers. The air fryer gives them a bakery-style finish in minutes. Each bite feels fancy without any real work. A simple way to bring something special to the table without much prep.
    Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

    Maple Glazed Carrots

    Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.Pin
    Maple Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air-fried carrots with a light maple glaze come out tender and caramelized with minimal effort. They cook quickly and bring a touch of sweetness to your meal. The air fryer keeps the edges golden without overcooking. Perfect as a side for both casual and special dinners. It's a hands-off way to add something bright and warm to your plate.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots

    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.Pin
    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Boneless chicken thighs cook up juicy and well-browned in the air fryer with very little prep. They're great for weeknights when you want something quick and flavorful. The air fryer keeps them tender inside with a crisp finish. They pair easily with salads, rice, or vegetables. A dependable option for dinner when you don't feel like hovering over the stove.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These onion rings get an upgrade with crispy bacon wrapped around each piece. The air fryer keeps them crunchy without the mess of frying. They're simple to make and cook up fast. Perfect for parties, game days, or even as a fun dinner side. This recipe brings bold flavor with hardly any effort needed.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    Chicken Nuggets

    Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.Pin
    Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These air fryer chicken nuggets turn golden and crisp in just minutes. They're easy to prepare and a hit with both kids and adults. The air fryer keeps them light while locking in great texture. Ideal for quick lunches or dinners when time is short. It's a simple favorite that always comes through on busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Apple Puff Pastry Tart

    A dessert plate with apple slices, a pastry drizzled with icing, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with syrup. A checkered cloth is nearby.Pin
    Apple Puff Pastry Tart. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This apple tart bakes perfectly in the air fryer with golden layers and soft fruit inside. It's an easy dessert that looks more impressive than the effort it takes. The air fryer gives a bakery-style crust without heating the whole kitchen. It's quick to make and great for last-minute guests. A warm, comforting treat that practically makes itself.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Puff Pastry Tart

    Air Fryer French Toast

    Air fryer french toast slices with syrup and blueberries on plate.Pin
    Air Fryer French Toast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    French toast in the air fryer comes out crisp on the edges and soft in the center. It's easy to make without using the stove or griddle. Perfect for weekend mornings or breakfast-for-dinner nights. The air fryer keeps cleanup simple and quick. It's a cozy meal that fits right into busy mornings.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Toast

    Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    A plate of apple crisp with chunks of apple, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an oat crumble topping.Pin
    Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This apple crisp is the perfect small-batch dessert that bakes up warm and crumbly in minutes. The air fryer cooks it evenly without needing a full oven. It's a great option when you want a quick treat just for yourself. The topping turns golden and crisp while the apples soften underneath. A simple dessert that feels comforting and effortless.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These chicken tenders cook up golden and juicy in the air fryer with little to no mess. They're perfect for quick dinners or easy meal prep. The air fryer gives them a crispy coating without needing oil. They're ready fast and pair well with simple sides or dipping sauces. A dependable meal option that takes the work out of dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple

    Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate.Pin
    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bacon-wrapped pineapple bites caramelize beautifully in the air fryer. The mix of smoky and sweet flavors makes them stand out as an easy snack or side. They cook quickly with minimal cleanup. Perfect for gatherings or a fun twist on dinner. A simple recipe that feels a little special without taking up much time.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple

    Crab Rangoon Dip

    A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip.Pin
    Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This creamy crab dip turns bubbly and warm in the air fryer, perfect for serving with chips or bread. It cooks evenly and stays smooth without drying out. The air fryer keeps it simple and hands-off. Great for parties or cozy nights at home. It's an easy way to make something that feels shareable and comforting.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These ribs come out tender and caramelized with a sticky glaze in less time than oven-baking. The air fryer keeps them juicy while giving the edges a perfect char. They're great for weeknights when you want something hearty without the long wait. Cleanup is quick, and the flavor speaks for itself. A solid dinner option when you want the air fryer to do the heavy lifting.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

    Sliced roasted ham garnished with sprigs of rosemary on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This ham cooks up tender with a crisp outer layer thanks to the air fryer. The glaze adds a balanced sweetness without being overbearing. It's simple to prepare and doesn't take much time. The air fryer keeps it moist and evenly cooked. Ideal for both everyday dinners and small celebrations with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley.Pin
    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Roma tomatoes roast beautifully in the air fryer, coming out soft and lightly caramelized. They're perfect for topping pasta, salads, or grain bowls. The air fryer saves time and keeps cleanup simple. It's a quick way to add flavor to any meal. A convenient recipe for when you want something fresh without spending extra time in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Whole Chicken

    Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots on a white plate.Pin
    Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Cooking a whole chicken in the air fryer gives you crisp skin and juicy meat without the hassle of roasting. It's a one-step meal that feels complete on its own. The air fryer makes it easy to cook evenly in less time. Perfect for family dinners or weekly meal prep. This recipe proves that big results can come from minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken

    Air Fryer Apple Fritters

    Glazed apple cinnamon fritters on a plate with front one broken in half.Pin
    Air Fryer Apple Fritters. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These apple fritters turn golden and fluffy in the air fryer with just the right hint of sweetness. They're easy to make and ready in minutes. The air fryer keeps them light while giving a crisp finish. Perfect for breakfast or a quick dessert. A simple way to enjoy something warm and comforting without much cleanup.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fritters

    Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts

    Bowl of glazed candied walnuts on a white surface.Pin
    Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These spiced walnuts cook quickly in the air fryer with a sweet, lightly crunchy coating. They're great for snacks, salads, or gifting. The air fryer keeps them evenly toasted without burning. It's an easy recipe that takes just minutes to pull together. A nice way to make a homemade snack that feels special but effortless.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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