Are you looking for some quick and easy side dish recipes that will wow your family and friends? Do you want to make the most of your air fryer and enjoy crispy, crunchy, and flavorful dishes without the hassle and mess of deep-frying? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this article is for you.
In this article, we'll share with you 16 amazing side dish recipes that you can make in your air fryer in no time. These recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you need a simple snack, a hearty accompaniment for your main course, or a sweet treat. You'll find recipes for potatoes, vegetables, fruits, beans, cheese, and more. All you need is an air fryer and some basic ingredients, and you're ready to go.
But before we get to the recipes, let's talk about what an air fryer is and why you should use it. An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food. It works by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy and crunchy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. It's like a mini convection oven that can fit on your countertop.
What is an air fryer and why you should use it
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food. It works by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy and crunchy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. It's like a mini convection oven that can fit on your countertop.
Benefits of air frying
- It's faster and more convenient than using an oven or a deep-fryer. You don't need to preheat it, and you can cook multiple dishes at once.
- It's healthier and more economical than deep-frying. You don't need to use any oil or grease, which means less calories, fat, and mess.
- It's versatile and fun to use. You can make anything from fries and nuggets to cakes and cookies in your air fryer. You can also experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and toppings.
16 delicious side dish recipes for the air fryer
Now that you know what an air fryer is and why you should use it, let's get to the fun part: the recipes. In this section, we'll show you how to make 16 mouthwatering side dishes that are quick and easy to make in your air fryer. You'll find recipes for potatoes, vegetables, fruits, beans, cheese, and more. These recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you need a simple snack, a hearty accompaniment for your main course, or a sweet treat. Let's get started!
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Who doesn't love crispy potatoes? They're the ultimate comfort food and a great side dish for any meal. But you don't need to deep-fry them or roast them in the oven for a long time to get that crunchy texture. You can make them in your air fryer in just 20 minutes with minimal oil and seasoning. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, etc.
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with the oil and salt and pepper. Add any herbs and spices you like.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Enjoy your crispy air fryer potatoes with ketchup, mayo, or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
If you think you don't like Brussels sprouts, think again. These air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon are so delicious and easy to make, you'll want to eat them all the time. They're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and flavored with smoky bacon and a touch of maple syrup. They're the perfect side dish for any meal, especially during the holidays. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with the bacon and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts mixture in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp and caramelized.
- Enjoy your air fryer Brussels sprouts with bacon as a side dish or a snack.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Looking for a low-carb alternative to regular fries? Try these air fryer garlic parmesan zucchini fries. They're crispy, cheesy, and garlicky, and they're ready in less than 15 minutes. They're a great way to use up your zucchini and enjoy a satisfying snack or side dish. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, cut into thin fries
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchini fries with the cheese mixture until well coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the zucchini fries in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Enjoy your air fryer garlic parmesan zucchini fries with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Nothing beats the taste of fresh corn on the cob, especially when it's cooked in your air fryer. It's sweet, juicy, and tender, and it only takes 10 minutes to make. You don't even need to shuck the corn or add any butter or oil. Just pop the whole ears in your air fryer and enjoy. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husks and silks intact
- Optional: butter, salt, pepper, and your favorite toppings
Instructions:
- Rinse the corn and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Place the corn in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Carefully remove the corn from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before peeling off the husks and silks.
- Enjoy your air fryer corn on the cob with butter, salt, pepper, and your favorite toppings.
Air Fryer Roasted Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the healthiest and most versatile vegetables you can eat. It's rich in vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients. And it's delicious when roasted in your air fryer. It becomes crispy and charred on the edges, while staying tender and moist on the inside. You only need a few ingredients and 15 minutes to make this easy and tasty side dish. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon juice, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or your favorite seasonings
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli with the oil and salt and pepper. Add any other seasonings you like.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the broccoli in a single layer in the basket and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp and browned.
- Enjoy your air fryer roasted broccoli with lemon juice or your favorite sauce.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Buffalo Bites
If you love buffalo wings but want a healthier and vegetarian option, try these air fryer cauliflower buffalo bites. They're crispy, spicy, and satisfying, and they're easy to make with just a few ingredients. You can enjoy them as a snack, an appetizer, or a main dish with some salad or coleslaw. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
- Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
- In another small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce and butter.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with the flour mixture until well coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl and toss with the hot sauce mixture until well coated.
- Return the cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for another 5 minutes, until crisp and sticky.
- Enjoy your air fryer cauliflower buffalo bites with ranch or blue cheese dressing or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Green Beans with Almonds
Green beans are a classic and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many ways. One of the easiest and tastiest ways is to air fry them with some almonds for a crunchy and nutty flavor. They're ready in less than 20 minutes and they're perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
- Optional: lemon zest, garlic powder, or your favorite seasonings
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the green beans with the oil and salt and pepper. Add any other seasonings you like.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the green beans in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Add the almonds to the basket and cook for another 5 minutes, until the green beans are crisp-tender and the almonds are toasted.
- Enjoy your air fryer green beans with almonds as a side dish or a salad.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can be enjoyed in many ways. One of the easiest and yummiest ways is to air fry them into wedges. They're soft and fluffy on the inside, and crispy and caramelized on the outside. You only need a few ingredients and 20 minutes to make this simple and satisfying snack or side dish. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cinnamon, paprika, or your favorite seasonings
Instructions:
- In a large zip lock bag, toss the sweet potato wedges with the cornstarch until well coated.
- Add the oil and salt and pepper to the bag and toss again until well coated. Add any other seasonings you like.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the sweet potato wedges in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Enjoy your air fryer sweet potato wedges with ketchup, mayo, or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Baked Apples
Baked apples are a classic and cozy dessert that can be made easily in your air fryer. They're soft and tender on the inside, and crisp and caramelized on the outside. You can fill them with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, spices, and sweeteners. They're perfect for a cold day or a special occasion. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples, cored and scored around the middle
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons of butter, cut into small pieces
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, walnuts, raisins, and cinnamon.
- Spoon the mixture into the center of each apple, packing it firmly.
- Dot the top of each apple with butter.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the apples in the basket and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until soft and bubbly.
- Enjoy your air fryer baked apples with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Air Fryer Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals. They're also delicious when roasted in your air fryer. They become crunchy and flavorful, and they're perfect for snacking or topping salads and soups. You can spice them up with your favorite seasonings, such as cumin, paprika, chili powder, or curry powder. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 15-ounce can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder
- Optional: cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spices
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the chickpeas with the oil and salt and pepper. Add the cumin, paprika, chili powder, and any other spices you like.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the chickpeas in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until crisp and golden.
- Enjoy your air fryer spicy roasted chickpeas as a snack or a topping.
Air Fryer Kale Chips
Kale is a superfood that's rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It's also delicious when air fried into crispy and crunchy chips. You can season them with your favorite flavors, such as salt, pepper, lemon juice, vinegar, or nutritional yeast. They're a great alternative to potato chips and they're easy to make in your air fryer. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of kale, washed and dried
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon juice, vinegar, nutritional yeast, or your favorite seasonings
Instructions:
- Remove the stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, toss the kale with the oil and salt and pepper. Add any other seasonings you like.
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Spread the kale in a single layer in the basket and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp and dry.
- Enjoy your air fryer kale chips as a snack or a salad topping.
Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious and easy appetizer that can be made in your air fryer. They're filled with a cheesy and savory mixture of cream cheese, bacon, green onions, and Parmesan cheese. They're tender and juicy on the inside, and golden and crisp on the outside. They're perfect for any party or gathering. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 16 large mushrooms, stems removed and reserved
- 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, parsley, or your favorite herbs
Instructions:
- Finely chop the mushroom stems and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, bacon, green onions, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Add any other seasonings you like.
- Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps, filling them generously.
- Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms in the basket and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until the mushrooms are soft and the filling is bubbly.
- Enjoy your air fryer stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or a side dish.
Air Fryer Onion Rings
Onion rings are a classic and crispy snack that can be made healthier and easier in your air fryer. They're coated with a simple batter of flour, milk, and egg, and then seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. They're air fried until golden and crunchy, and they're perfect for dipping in ketchup, mayo, or your favorite sauce. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch thick rings
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- Optional: cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spices
Instructions:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, egg, salt and pepper. Add the paprika and any other spices you like.
- Dip each onion ring into the batter, shaking off any excess.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the onion rings in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Enjoy your air fryer onion rings with ketchup, mayo, or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Balls
Mac and cheese balls are a cheesy and creamy treat that can be made in your air fryer. They're made with leftover macaroni and cheese, shaped into balls, and coated with breadcrumbs. They're air fried until crisp and golden, and they're ooey-gooey on the inside. They're perfect for a snack or a party appetizer. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of leftover macaroni and cheese, chilled
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: parsley, cheese, or your favorite toppings
Instructions:
- Shape the macaroni and cheese into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for 15 minutes or until firm.
- Place the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Season the breadcrumbs with salt and pepper.
- Dip each mac and cheese ball into the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs, coating them well.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the mac and cheese balls in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until golden and crisp.
- Enjoy your air fryer mac and cheese balls with parsley, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Jalapeño poppers are a spicy and cheesy snack that can be made in your air fryer. They're made with fresh jalapeños, stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar cheese, and wrapped with bacon. They're air fried until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is melted. They're perfect for a game day or a party snack. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Optional: ranch dressing, sour cream, or your favorite dip
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salt and pepper.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
- Wrap each jalapeño half with a bacon piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the jalapeño poppers in a single layer in the basket and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is bubbly.
- Enjoy your air fryer jalapeño poppers with ranch dressing, sour cream, or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Cinnamon sugar donuts are a sweet and fluffy treat that can be made in your air fryer. They're made with refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into donut shapes, and air fried until golden and tender. They're coated with melted butter and cinnamon sugar, and they're best served warm. They're perfect for a breakfast or a dessert. Here's how:
Ingredients:
- 1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- Optional: powdered sugar, glaze, or your favorite toppings
Instructions:
- Separate the biscuit dough and use a small round cookie cutter or a bottle cap to cut out the center of each biscuit.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the donuts and the donut holes in a single layer in the basket and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon.
- Brush the donuts and the donut holes with melted butter and dip them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating them well.
- Enjoy your air fryer cinnamon sugar donuts with powdered sugar, glaze, or your favorite toppings.
In this article, we have shown you how to make five delicious and easy snacks in your air fryer. Air frying is a healthier and faster way to cook your favorite foods, using hot air instead of oil. You can make crispy and cheesy appetizers, such as stuffed mushrooms, onion rings, mac and cheese balls, and jalapeño poppers. You can also make sweet and fluffy treats, such as cinnamon sugar donuts. All you need are some simple ingredients, an air fryer, and a few minutes of your time. We hope you enjoy these air fryer recipes and try them out for yourself. Let us know which one is your favorite and share your feedback with us. Happy air frying!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about air frying and the recipes in this article.
- What is an air fryer and how does it work?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food. It has a fan that circulates the hot air around the food, creating a crispy and even texture. Air frying uses less oil and fat than deep frying, making it a healthier option. - What are the benefits of air frying?
Air frying has many benefits, such as:- It reduces the calories and fat in your food, as you don’t need to add oil or grease.
- It cooks your food faster and more evenly, as the hot air reaches all sides of the food.
- It creates a crispy and crunchy texture, similar to deep frying, but without the greasiness.
- It is easy to use and clean, as you only need to place the food in the basket and set the timer and temperature.
- It is versatile and can cook a variety of foods, such as meat, vegetables, desserts, and more.
- How do I choose an air fryer?
There are many types and models of air fryers available on the market, so you should consider your needs and preferences before buying one. Some factors to consider are:- The size and capacity of the air fryer, depending on how much food you want to cook at once.
- The features and functions of the air fryer, such as temperature and time settings, presets, accessories, etc.
- The price and quality of the air fryer, depending on your budget and expectations.
- The reviews and ratings of the air fryer, based on other customers’ experiences and feedback.
- How do I use an air fryer?
Using an air fryer is simple and straightforward. Here are some basic steps to follow:- Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually between 350°F (180°C) and 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare your food by cutting, seasoning, coating, or stuffing it as needed.
- Place your food in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer. Do not overcrowd or overlap the food.
- Cook your food for the recommended time, usually between 5 and 15 minutes. Flip or shake the food halfway through for even cooking.
- Check your food for doneness by inserting a thermometer or a fork. If needed, cook for a few more minutes until crisp and golden.
- Enjoy your food with your favorite sauces or toppings.
- How do I clean an air fryer?
Cleaning an air fryer is easy and hassle-free. Here are some tips to follow:- Unplug your air fryer and let it cool down completely before cleaning.
- Remove the basket and tray from the air fryer and wash them with warm soapy water. You can also use a soft brush or sponge to remove any stuck-on food particles. Do not use abrasive cleaners or utensils that may scratch the surface.
