15 Foods That Taste Even Better In An Air Fryer
Air fryers have quickly become one of the most loved kitchen gadgets, and for good reason. They make food crispy with very little oil, cut down cooking time, and are incredibly easy to use. While frozen fries and chicken nuggets may be the obvious go-tos, the truth is that the air fryer can handle much more. From snacks to desserts, it transforms everyday foods into lighter, tastier versions without losing flavor. Here are 15 foods that taste even better when cooked in an air fryer.
French Fries
French fries are one of the most popular air fryer recipes. The circulating hot air makes the outside perfectly crisp while keeping the inside fluffy. Unlike deep-frying, you need only a light spray of oil to achieve golden results. You can make them from fresh potatoes or simply toss frozen fries straight into the basket. Season them with salt or experiment with spices like paprika and garlic powder. They come out indulgent but with far less grease clinging to your fingers.
Chicken Wings
Air-fried chicken wings give you that restaurant-quality crunch without the heavy oil. The air fryer locks in juices while rendering the skin to a crispy finish. Toss them in buffalo, barbecue, or garlic parmesan sauce after cooking, and they rival any pub-style appetizer. Because the fryer drains off excess fat during cooking, the wings taste lighter yet still flavorful. It is easy to make multiple batches quickly, perfect for game nights or parties when everyone craves finger food.
Vegetables
Brussels sprouts, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli all develop incredible flavor in the air fryer. The high heat caramelizes their edges, creating a roasted taste in just a fraction of the time compared to the oven. Toss veggies with a touch of olive oil and your favorite seasoning blend, then let the air fryer do the work. They come out tender inside but crisp and flavorful outside. Even picky eaters may find themselves reaching for seconds with vegetables cooked this way.
Mozzarella Sticks
Frozen mozzarella sticks are usually deep‑fried, but the air fryer comes surprisingly close: crisp breading outside and gooey cheese inside, without the oil bath. For best results, freeze the sticks solid before cooking so the cheese doesn’t leak. In under 10 minutes you’ll have a snack that rivals restaurant appetizers, especially when served with marinara or ranch for dipping.
Salmon
Cooking salmon in the air fryer is quick and reliable. The hot air circulates around the fillet, giving the outside a lightly crisp finish while keeping the inside tender and flaky. Season simply with salt, pepper, and lemon, or brush with a glaze for extra flavor. Unlike pan-searing, there is no need to flip, and unlike baking, it cooks much faster. The result is salmon that tastes rich and restaurant-worthy, without drying out or sticking to a pan.
Bacon
The air fryer is one of the easiest ways to make bacon. It cooks evenly, stays flat, and gets perfectly crisp without splattering grease all over the stovetop. Excess fat drips away into the bottom tray, so the strips taste less greasy but still indulgent. Cleanup is also simpler since you avoid oily pans. Whether you want bacon for breakfast, sandwiches, or crumbling over a salad, the air fryer makes it convenient and reliable every time.
Donuts
Air fryer donuts turn out soft inside with a lightly crisp surface, more like a cross between baked and fried. You can air‑fry biscuit dough for quick versions or make yeast dough and proof it before cooking. A light oil spray helps with browning. Toss them in cinnamon sugar or glaze with icing for a fun treat that’s lighter than classic deep‑fried donuts but still feels indulgent.
Shrimp
Shrimp cook very quickly in the air fryer, usually in under 10 minutes, making them perfect for weeknights. Breaded in panko, they crisp up beautifully; without breading, they take on a light sear while staying tender. Season with garlic, paprika, or lemon pepper for extra flavor. Serve them as appetizers, in tacos, or over pasta. Just keep an eye on timing; air‑fried shrimp can overcook if left unattended.
Potato Wedges
Potato wedges can be tricky in the oven, but the air fryer gives them a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft. Cut potatoes into thick wedges, coat them with oil and seasoning, and cook until golden. The hot air crisps all sides evenly, no flipping required. They taste like a cross between baked potatoes and fries, making them perfect for dipping in ketchup, ranch, or aioli. Hearty and flavorful, they work as a side dish or a filling snack.
Apple Chips
Air-fried apple chips are a healthier snack alternative that taste indulgent. Thinly sliced apples crisp up beautifully in the air fryer with just a sprinkle of cinnamon. Unlike store-bought versions, these chips have no preservatives and can be made in small batches anytime. They are crunchy, lightly sweet, and perfect for kids or adults. You can also try pears or bananas for variety. They prove the air fryer can handle sweet treats as well as savory snacks.
Pork Chops
Air fryer pork chops develop a golden-brown crust while staying juicy inside. Simply season with salt, pepper, and herbs, or coat in breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Because the hot air circulates evenly, the chops cook quickly without drying out. This method gives you results that taste pan-seared but without the mess or excess oil. Pair them with vegetables or a side salad for a hearty yet lighter meal.
Chickpeas
Air‑fried chickpeas make a crunchy, protein‑packed snack that rivals chips. Toss cooked chickpeas in oil and spices like cumin or chili powder, then roast until crisp. They turn out crunchy throughout, with a nutty flavor ideal for snacking or tossing on salads. Store airtight to keep crunch. The seasoning possibilities are endless, from savory garlic to smoky paprika blends.
Eggplant
Eggplant transforms beautifully in the air fryer. Sliced and brushed with oil, it cooks until the flesh becomes silky while the outside caramelizes. It’s quicker and lighter than roasting, with the same depth of flavor. Try seasoning with Mediterranean herbs or soy sauce depending on the dish. When cooked properly, air‑fried eggplant is tender, flavorful, and far less soggy than typical oil‑heavy methods.
Falafel
Falafel is traditionally deep‑fried, but the air fryer makes a lighter, less messy version. The chickpea patties crisp on the outside with minimal oil while remaining soft inside. The texture is drier than classic deep‑fried falafel but still delicious and full of flavor. Serve in pita with lettuce, tomato, and tahini, or over salad for a healthier twist on this Middle Eastern favorite.
Cookies
Yes, you can bake cookies in an air fryer. Small batches cook quickly: crisp edges, soft centers, and no need to heat the whole oven. Cookies in the air fryer may spread a little less, but they taste just as rich and gooey. Perfect for chocolate chip, peanut butter, or oatmeal, this method is great when you want fresh cookies fast without dealing with trays of leftovers.
