The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now

Unlock the full potential of your kitchen with this definitive guide to The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now, curated for maximum flavor and ease. From succulent beef steak bites to guilt-free desserts, these dishes will revolutionize the way you cook dinner tonight.

If you have recently purchased an air fryer, or perhaps yours has been sitting in a box waiting for the right inspiration, you are in the right place. The countertop convection oven has completely changed the landscape of home cooking. It provides the ability to create restaurant-quality textures, crispy skins, caramelized exteriors, and juicy interiors, without the excessive oil usage of a deep fryer or the long preheating times of a conventional oven.

However, finding reliable recipes can be a challenge. That is why we have compiled this extensive list of The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now. We have tested these rigorously to ensure they work every single time. For the best results in these recipes, we highly recommend the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt. Its 6-quart capacity is perfect for families, and the DC motor technology ensures vegetables roast evenly and meats sear perfectly without drying out.

The “Must-Try” Beef Mains

When looking for The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now, beef dishes often top the list because the high-speed air circulation creates a crust that rivals a cast-iron sear.

2. Classic Juicy Beef Burgers

Forget firing up the outdoor grill; the air fryer is the secret to a mess-free burger night. The rapid air circulation seals the exterior of the patty instantly, trapping the juices inside.

• Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is essential for moisture), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder.
• Method: Gently form the meat into 4 patties. Press a small thumb indentation in the center of each; this prevents them from puffing up into balls during cooking. Season generously on both sides. Preheat your fryer to 370°F (185°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. If you love cheeseburgers, place a slice of cheddar on top during the last 60 seconds of cooking.

3. Beef Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

This is the ultimate game-day appetizer, reimagined to be completely pork-free. We substitute traditional bacon with savory beef bacon, which crisps up beautifully and adds a deeper, meatier flavor profile.

• Ingredients: 6 fresh jalapeños (halved and seeded), 4 oz cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 12 slices of beef bacon.
• Method: Mix the cream cheese and cheddar in a small bowl. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly with a slice of beef bacon. Use a toothpick if necessary to secure it, though beef bacon usually adheres well. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. The result is a smoky, spicy, creamy bite that defines why these are among The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now.

4. Crispy Beef Taquitos

Leftover roast beef gets a second life in this crunchy snack. It is far healthier than the deep-fried version but retains that signature “crunch.”

• Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded beef, 8 corn tortillas, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1 tbsp taco seasoning.
• Method: Warm your tortillas in the microwave for 15 seconds so they are pliable. Mix the beef with taco seasoning and cheese. Place a small line of filling on the edge of a tortilla and roll tightly. Place them seam-side down in the basket and spray generously with avocado or olive oil spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes until golden brown.

5. Air Fryer Meatloaf

Traditional meatloaf can take over an hour in the oven. The air fryer cuts this time in half while keeping the meat incredibly moist. To ensure your ground beef stays fresh before cooking, we recommend using the FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Machine. It prevents freezer burn, allowing you to buy high-quality beef in bulk and save it for recipes like this.

• Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/4 cup diced onions, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
• Method: Combine all ingredients in a bowl, being careful not to overmix, which can make the loaf tough. Shape the meat into a loaf that fits your air fryer basket (approx. 6×4 inches). Air fry at 370°F (185°C) for 20–25 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep the juices intact.

6. Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter

Yes, you can cook a premium steak in an air fryer. It is foolproof and eliminates the smoke often associated with pan-searing.

• Ingredients: 1-inch thick ribeye steak, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp steak seasoning.
• Method: Rub the steak on all sides with oil and seasoning. Preheat the fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, for a perfect medium-rare finish. Top with a pat of herb butter immediately upon removing from the basket.

7. Beef “Burnt Ends”

Usually made from pork belly, this beef variation uses chuck roast to create sticky, caramelized bites of BBQ heaven.

• Ingredients: 2 lbs chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes), 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp chili powder.
• Method: Toss beef cubes in the dry spices. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the basket, toss the beef in the BBQ sauce and butter, and return to the fryer for another 5–8 minutes. The sugars will caramelize into a delicious, sticky crust.

Crispy Chicken & Poultry

Poultry is a staple in our guide to The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now because the skin crisps up like no other method.

8. The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Wings

The secret ingredient here is baking powder. It alters the pH level of the chicken skin, allowing it to dehydrate and crisp up faster.

• Ingredients: 2 lbs Chicken wings, 1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder.
• Method: Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels, moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Toss with the baking powder and spice mixture. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. Toss in your favorite sauce after cooking.

9. Breaded Chicken Tenders

These are a massive upgrade from the frozen aisle and a hit with children and adults alike.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken tenderloins, 1/2 cup flour, 1 egg (beaten), 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese.
• Method: Set up a dredging station: flour, then egg, then the panko/parmesan mix. Coat each tenderloin thoroughly. Place in the basket and spray generously with cooking oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

10. Whole Roast Chicken (Rotisserie Style)

Depending on the size of your air fryer, a whole bird can yield the most tender meat you have ever tasted.

• Ingredients: Whole chicken (approx. 4 lbs), 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp onion powder.
• Method: Rub the chicken with oil and spices, ensuring you get under the skin of the breast. Place breast-side down in the basket. Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes, flip carefully, and cook for another 20–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Seafood Favorites

11. Maple Soy Glazed Salmon

Salmon fillets cook rapidly in the air fryer, and the high heat caramelizes sugar-based glazes perfectly. For a perfectly smooth marinade or side sauce, use the Ninja BN751 Professional Plus DUO Blender. Its 1000W motor emulsifies ginger and garlic into sauces in seconds.

• Ingredients: 2 Salmon fillets, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp fresh grated ginger, 1 clove garlic (minced).
• Method: Mix the soy sauce, maple syrup, ginger, and garlic. Marinate the salmon for 15 minutes. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7–9 minutes depending on thickness. The glaze will be sticky and irresistible.

12. Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked, but the air fryer offers precise control.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Large shrimp (peeled/deveined), 2 tbsp melted butter, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (replacing white wine), 2 cloves garlic (minced), fresh parsley.
• Method: Toss the shrimp in the butter, lemon juice, and garlic mixture. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for just 5–6 minutes. Shake the basket once halfway through. Serve immediately over rice or pasta.

13. Crispy Fish Tacos

The perfect Tuesday night dinner. White fish becomes flaky and tender inside a crispy coating.

• Ingredients: 1 lb White fish (cod or tilapia), 1 tbsp taco seasoning, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, flour tortillas, slaw.
• Method: Cut fish into strips. Dredge in taco seasoning mixed with breadcrumbs. Spray with oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes. For the slaw, utilize the Cuisinart 8 Cup Food Processor to shred cabbage and carrots in seconds, saving you tedious chopping time.

Vegetables & Sides

Vegetables are often the unsung heroes of The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now. The air fryer roasts them to perfection, often faster than boiling water.

14. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Even broccoli skeptics will love this crispy, cheesy version.

• Ingredients: 1 head Broccoli florets, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic salt, 2 tbsp grated parmesan.
• Method: Toss broccoli with oil and garlic salt. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes. Open the basket, sprinkle with parmesan, and cook for 1 minute more until the cheese melts and crisps.

15. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

This recipe converts Brussels sprouts from soggy to spectacular. We use beef bacon bits to add a savory punch without using pork.

• Ingredients: 1 lb Brussels sprouts (halved), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, 2 slices beef bacon (cooked and chopped).
• Method: Toss sprouts in oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until the outer leaves are charred and crispy. Drizzle with balsamic and top with beef bacon bits before serving.

16. Perfect French Fries

Making fries from scratch is an art form. The key is removing the starch.

• Ingredients: 2 Russet potatoes (cut into matchsticks), 1 tbsp olive oil, salt.
• Method: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This draws out starch and ensures crispiness. Dry them thoroughly with a towel. Toss with oil and salt. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket frequently.

17. Sweet Potato Wedges

A healthier alternative to standard fries, packed with vitamins and flavor.

• Ingredients: 2 Sweet potatoes (wedged), 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1 tbsp oil.
• Method: Toss wedges in oil and spices. Ensure they aren’t overcrowded. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. The edges should be dark and caramelized.

18. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

A spicy vegetarian alternative to wings that brings the heat.

• Ingredients: 1 head Cauliflower (florets), 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, 1 tbsp butter, 1 tsp garlic powder.
• Method: Air fry plain florets at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes. While they cook, melt butter into the buffalo sauce. Toss the cooked cauliflower in the sauce and return to the fryer for 2 minutes to set the glaze.

19. Loaded Baked Potato

The air fryer bakes potatoes faster than an oven and gives them a crispy skin akin to a restaurant style.

• Ingredients: 2 Russet potatoes, oil, salt. Toppings: Sour cream, cheddar, chopped beef bacon.
• Method: Poke holes in the potatoes with a fork. Rub with oil and coarse salt. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 35–45 minutes until soft when squeezed. Slice open and load with your toppings. These are great for meal prep; store them in the Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Storage Set to keep them fresh for lunch the next day.

20. Corn on the Cob

Achieve that “grilled” taste without firing up the barbecue.

• Ingredients: 4 Corn cobs (shucked), 2 tbsp butter, salt.
• Method: Rub corn generously with butter and salt. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway. The kernels will become sweet and slightly roasted.

Desserts

No list of The 23 Best Air Fryer Recipes You Need To Try Now is complete without something sweet. The air fryer acts like a miniature convection oven, perfect for baking small batches.

21. Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes

Rich, decadent, and surprisingly easy to make.

• Ingredients: 4 oz Baking chocolate, 1/2 stick butter, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp flour.
• Method: Melt chocolate and butter. Whisk eggs and sugar, then combine. Fold in flour. Pour batter into greased ramekins. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. The center should still be jiggly when you take them out.

22. 5-Minute Donuts

The quickest way to satisfy a donut craving using a store-bought hack.

• Ingredients: 1 can Refrigerated biscuit dough, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tbsp cinnamon, 4 tbsp melted butter.
• Method: Separate the biscuits and cut a small hole in the center of each. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes. Brush with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately.

23. Apple Hand Pies

Miniature pies that are crispy on the outside and warm on the inside.

• Ingredients: Store-bought pie crust, 1 cup apple pie filling, 1 egg (for wash).
• Method: Unroll crust and cut into 4-inch circles. Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center. Fold over and crimp the edges with a fork. Brush with egg wash. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use beef bacon instead of regular bacon?

Beef bacon is a fantastic alternative that provides a robust, meaty flavor profile. It has a slightly lower fat content than traditional pork bacon but delivers a superior crunch when air fried. It is perfect for wrapping jalapeños or adding a savory crumble to vegetables, aligning perfectly with pork-free dietary preferences.

Can I put aluminum foil in my air fryer?

Yes, you generally can, but with caution. Ensure the foil is weighted down by food so it doesn’t get sucked into the heating element. However, for better airflow and crispier results (like in our fries or wings recipes), it is often better to cook directly on the basket or use perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers.

How do I stop my food from drying out?

Because the air fryer moves air rapidly, it can dry out lean meats. To prevent this, use a light spray of oil on the surface of the food, or use marinades (like the maple soy glaze for salmon). Additionally, investing in a quality unit like the Cosori Air Fryer helps regulate temperature more precisely to retain moisture.

What can I use instead of wine in recipes?

In air fryer recipes that might traditionally call for a splash of white wine for steaming or flavor (like shrimp scampi), excellent substitutions include low-sodium vegetable broth, chicken broth, or fresh lemon juice mixed with water. These provide the necessary acidity and moisture without the alcohol.

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