Find the Air Fryer Size That’s Best for You

Before investing in a shiny new kitchen appliance, make sure it’s the right fit for you—literally. You don’t want to sacrifice precious counter space in vain! When it comes to air fryers, the best way to ensure you’re going to actually use it is to choose the right size. After all, these gadgets range from small to extra-large—from 1.6 quarts all the way to up to a whopping 8.

To help make your choice easier, we called on pros Regina Chaperon and Kara Shilalie, creators of Air Fryer Addicts—an Instagram account devoted to scrumptious meals cooked in the mini oven—for guidance on finding the right air fryer size for every type of cook.

If you’re looking for recommendations on brands, check out our Test Kitchen’s air fryer review.

When Cooking for 1:

Let’s say you cook for yourself and the occasional guest. Look for a small-capacity air fryer that holds 2 quarts at most. It’s enough room to roast a few chicken tenders with a side of Brussels sprouts.

But don’t forget to consider your cooking bucket list. If you dream of making appetizers for all your friends or cooking a meal with plenty of leftovers, you might want to consider going one size up.

“We wish we went larger with our first model,” says Chaperon, who cooks everything from toast to chicken thighs in her air fryer. “We didn’t realize how much we would use it!” She even finds herself reheating leftovers, especially pizza and french fries.

We Recommend: The 2-quart Copper Chef Air Fryer

Don’t miss our best air fryer cooking tips.

When Cooking for a Family of 2:

If it’s mostly you and your beau sitting around the dinner table, the air frying aficionados recommend a 2- or 3-quart air fryer. The basket provides enough space to cook approximately six chicken wings at a time or enough vegetables for two people.

The quick-cooking ability of the air fryer allows for versatility on busy weeknights. “Some nights when I don’t feel like having the same dinner as my fiance, I can throw something in and have dinner ready in 5 to 10 minutes,” says Shilalie, who has two air fryers at home.

We Recommend: The 2.75-quart Philips TurboStar Air Fryer

When Cooking for Families Up to 6:

When you’re cooking for three or more, an air fryer with a larger basket allows you to get dinner (and dessert) on the table in record time. Chaperon, a full-time teacher, upgraded to a 6-quart air fryer to make meals for her family of three. “I love how the air fryer allows me to get dinner ready in half the time. As a working mom with a picky 6-year-old, the air fryer allows versatility and also allows me to get creative with meals,” she says.

Although Chaperon uses her 6-quart air fryer for her 3-person family, it’s also the perfect air fryer size for a family of 4—and it can even work as a great size air fryer for a family of 6 depending on what you typically like to cook. If you’re making something like Nashville hot chicken, keep in mind you may need to cook the recipe in a few batches.

We Recommend: The 5.8-quart GoWISE Air Fryer

When Cooking for Parties of 8 or More:

When you have an open-door policy and find yourself surrounded by friends and family on the weekends, go for the extra-large basket size or an oven model air fryer. That way, you can whip up party plates and quick appetizers that feed a crowd in a jiffy. “The oven model air fryers are ideal if you are looking to replace other appliances, such as your toaster oven. They fit nicely on your counter and take up less space,” Shilalie says.

An air fryer basket within the 6- to 10-quart size range will provide enough room to roast a whole chicken, a whole pizza and pounds of finger foods.

We Recommend: The 8-quart Chefman Air Fryer

Become an Air Fryer Expert with Our Guides

After you choose the right size air fryer for you and bring it home, check out our air-fryer cooking guide that will teach you everything you need to know—from how to convert your favorite recipes for the air fryer to how to clean it. Make sure you know the difference between the air fryer and the oven and keep these air-fryer accessories in mind as you work your way from air-fryer beginner to whiz.

Top Recipes for Your New Go-To Gadget

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Air-Fryer Southern-Style ChickenTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Egg, Ritz crackers, broiler/fryer chicken Level: Intermediate

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What's the secret to crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside fried chicken? It's all in the breading—and crushed Ritz crackers give this chicken an incredible texture. If you can't fit a whole chicken into your air fryer, split this air-fryer recipe into two batches to ensure each piece crisps up. You can hold the cooked chicken in a 200°F oven to keep it warm while the remaining pieces cook. I call this America’s best-loved air-fryer chicken recipe. The secret is in the herby, golden brown breading that makes the chicken super moist and flavorful. —Recipe contributor Elaina Morgan, Rickman, Tennessee

Air-Fryer Garlic-Rosemary Brussels Sprouts Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Garlic-Rosemary Brussels SproutsTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, panko bread crumbs, garlic, fresh rosemary Level: Intermediate

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This is one of our favorite Brussels sprout sides. The halved sprouts crisp up perfectly in the air fryer, and the herbed bread crumbs add the perfect texture. The cooking time varies depending on your air fryer brand, so check them every four minutes or so to see if they've softened and started to caramelize on the edges. Crispy, crunchy and tender, these air-fryer chicken recipes are sure to please. If you're making dinner classics like pizza in your air fryer, check out our air fryer cooking time guide and ninja air fryer accessories for smooth preparation! This air-fryer Brussels sprouts recipe is my go-to Thanksgiving side dish. It's healthy and easy, and it doesn't take very much time or effort to make. I usually use rosemary for my turkey, so this lets me use up some of the leftover herbs! —Recipe contributor Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Air-Fryer Garlic BreadTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Ciabatta or French bread, butter, Parmesan, garlic Level: Beginner

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Look to the air fryer for a quick and easy side for soup, salad or pasta. You can use any sturdy, crusty bread for this recipe, like ciabatta, baguette or sourdough. Feel free to coat the bread with the topping in advance and store it in the freezer until you're ready to cook. By the way, if you want to maximize your air fryer's cooking space, these stackable racks are just what you need. This air-fryer garlic bread turns out perfectly toasted in a hurry. I use fresh garlic, but substitute 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if you don't have any fresh on hand. —Recipe contributor Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin

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Air-Fryer MeatballsTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Quick-cooking oats, Ritz crackers, evaporated milk, ground beef, orange marmalade, soy sauce, Louisiana-style hot sauce Level: Intermediate

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These meatballs are fantastic, but the real star of the show is the sweet-and-spicy sauce. The combination of orange marmalade, honey and brown sugar brings the sweetness, while hot sauce, Worcestershire and soy sauce provide an umami-rich heat. Serve these meatballs over rice or mashed potatoes, or serve them on a toothpick as an appetizer. Before you move ahead, check these air fryer fish recipes perfect for your quick cravings! I am always searching for meatballs that pack a sweet and savory punch. These air-fryer meatballs are a snap to pull together and can be served over rice or buttered noodles. —Recipe contributor Tami Kuehl, Loup City, Nebraska

Air-Fryer Asparagus Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer AsparagusTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Lemon zest, fresh asparagus, shredded Parmesan cheese Level: Beginner

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It's impossible to have too many asparagus recipes, especially in the spring when this vegetable is abundant. It might seem odd to coat the asparagus with mayonnaise before it cooks, but trust us; the mayonnaise combines with the olive oil to create a smooth marinade, and it helps the asparagus caramelize to perfection. This air-fryer asparagus recipe is flavorful, thanks to the lemon-garlic dressing that the spears are tossed in before roasting. It's a simple, quick side that goes with almost anything. —Recipe contributor Tina Mirilovich, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Coconut ShrimpTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Uncooked shrimp, sweetened shredded coconut, panko bread crumbs Level: Intermediate

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A restaurant-style coconut shrimp recipe that tastes just as good when you make it at home? Sign us up! Look for large shrimp or packages labeled anywhere from 26 to 35 shrimp per pound. These shrimp will stay juicy and moist on the inside in the time it takes to crisp up the coconut coating. Coconut flakes and panko crumbs give my spicy air-fryer coconut shrimp recipe its crunch. It’s perfect for an appetizer or for your main meal. —Recipe contributor Debi Mitchell, Flower Mound, Texas

Air-Fryer Chocolate Chip Oatmeal CookiesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Quick-cooking oats, semisweet chocolate chips, instant vanilla pudding mix, chopped nuts Level: Intermediate

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These tablespoon-sized cookies bake to chewy perfection in less than 10 minutes in the air fryer. Make sure to flatten the cookies with the bottom of a glass or bowl before adding them to the basket, as they won't cook through properly if they're too thick. I am crazy about chocolate chips, and this chewy cookie has enough to satisfy me. My husband and kids love these cookies. This big batch is perfect for our family. —Recipe contributor Diane Neth, Menno, South Dakota

Air-Fryer Chicken LegsTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Chicken drumsticks, honey, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, spicy brown mustard Level: Intermediate

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The barbecue sauce that coats these crispy chicken legs may become your new favorite. It has the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, salty and spicy that will keep you digging back in for bite after bite. Create a feast by serving this air fryer chicken recipe with your favorite barbecue sides, like coleslaw or baked beans. With this air-fryer grill pan, you can turn your favorite kitchen appliance into an indoor barbecue, too. For years, I tried to find the perfect bottled barbecue sauce for chicken legs. After a few years, I threw in the towel and created my own using ketchup, honey and spicy brown mustard. It works perfectly with this air-fryer chicken legs recipe. —Recipe contributor Kathleen Criddle, Lake Worth, Florida

Air-Fryer Pickles Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer PicklesTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Dill pickle slices, dill pickle juice, panko bread crumbs Level: Intermediate

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The key to extra-crispy air-fried pickles is all in the preparation. Remove the pickle slices from the jar about 15 minutes before you're ready to cook, patting them dry and allowing the excess liquid to drain before cooking. Then, bread the pickles just before cooking them, and be sure to use a naturally crunchy breading like panko bread crumbs. Enjoy deep-fried pickles? You’ll love this version even more. Dill pickle slices are coated with panko bread crumbs and spices and then air-fried until crispy. Dip them in ranch dressing for an appetizer you won’t soon forget. —Recipe contributor Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

Air-Fryer Fish and FriesTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Potatoes, crushed cornflakes, grated Parmesan cheese, haddock or cod fillets Level: Advanced

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We love fish and chips, and it's all the better when cooking them doesn't make a mess in the kitchen! If you're hot-holding the fries in the oven while you cook the fish, keep them from getting soggy by placing an oven-safe rack inside a baking sheet to promote airflow. Store-bought tartar sauce works just fine here, but it's also really easy to make a classic tartar sauce. Looking for easy air-fryer recipes? Try this simple air-fryer fish and chips. The fish fillets have a fuss-free coating that's healthy but just as crunchy and golden as the deep-fried kind. Simply seasoned, the crispy fries are perfect on the side. —Recipe contributor Janice Mitchell, Aurora, Colorado

Air-Fryer Scottish Shortbread Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Scottish ShortbreadTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour Level: Intermediate

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These crispy cookies are perfect for the holidays. They make great gifts—if they can make it out the door! The best part of this recipe is that you can make multiple batches while your kitchen stays nice and cool. Give air-fryer baking a try with this easy cookie recipe. It was my mother's recipe, and she passed it on to me. I make a triple batch of it each year at Christmas to enjoy and to give as gifts. —Recipe contributor Rose Mabee, Selkirk, Manitoba

Air-Fryer Ground Beef WellingtonTotal Time: 50 minutes Main Ingredients: Mushrooms, half-and-half, ground beef, refrigerated crescent rolls Level: Advanced

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Elevate meat loaf night with this fancied-up version that turns regular ground beef into an elegant Wellington preparation. The crescent roll dough becomes buttery and flaky in the air fryer, and the meat loaf filling stays super juicy inside. The real star here is the mushroom cream sauce, which is almost good enough to drink! Trying new recipes—like this air-fryer Wellington—is one of my favorite hobbies. I replaced the filet mignon with ground beef while still keeping the beefy goodness. —Recipe contributor Julie Frankamp, Nicollet, Minnesota

Air-Fryer CalamariTotal Time: 27 minutes Main Ingredients: Fresh or frozen calamari, panko bread crumbs, milk, flour Level: Intermediate

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This recipe turns out just as crispy as the deep-fried calamari you get at your local restaurant, and it's fantastic served with a side of marinara sauce. When shopping to make this dish, look for cleaned, raw calamari rings. It's not difficult to clean and cut the calamari yourself, but prepared rings save you from extra prep. You can make crispy calamari just like your favorite Italian restaurant does thanks to the air fryer! A quick coat in crunchy panko bread crumbs and a few minutes in the air fryer are all it takes to make this special appetizer. —Recipe contributor Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer RavioliTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Seasoned bread crumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, frozen beef ravioli, marinara sauce Level: Intermediate

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Ravioli are delicious when served swimming in a buttery sauce or rich marinara, but air-frying them creates a perfect snack or filling appetizer. To keep the ravioli from drying out and help them crisp up, make sure to use a healthy spritz of cooking spray when they go into the air fryer and again when you flip them. While visiting a friend in St. Louis, Missouri, I tried fried ravioli at almost every restaurant we visited. When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and I think this air-fryer ravioli recipe comes pretty close. —Recipe contributor Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Bread PuddingTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Semisweet chocolate, half-and-half cream, 2% milk, vanilla extract, day-old bread Level: Intermediate

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You'll need a couple of 8-ounce ramekins to make this decadent air-fried dessert, but the investment is worth it. Once you have them, you open a door to so many fantastic air-fryer dessert recipes! This dish is so easy to assemble, and it's the perfect dessert for two. This air-fryer bread pudding is a fun dish because the chocolate makes it different from traditional recipes. It's a rich, comforting dessert. —Recipe contributor Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas

Air-Fryer Stuffed Sweet PotatoesTotal Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Main Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, spinach, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon strips, fresh cranberries, chopped pecans Level: Intermediate

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Stuffed sweet potatoes are one of our go-to healthy weeknight dinners, but we also love them as a potluck appetizer. It's so easy to bake the potatoes in the air fryer, and you can customize the stuffing for your personal preferences. These stuffed sweet potatoes are the perfect holiday side dish. Try preparing them ahead of time in the morning and then bake just before serving. —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Popcorn Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage SlawTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Coleslaw mix, panko bread crumbs, uncooked shrimp, corn tortillas Level: Intermediate

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This recipe takes shrimp tacos to the next level by coating them in spiced panko breading, making their texture stand out from the soft tortilla shells. Small shrimp (around 41 to 50 per pound) will cook up quickly, but you can substitute larger shrimp and adjust the cooking time. I love combining classic flavors in new ways. This healthy recipe combines crispy popcorn shrimp and tacos! It’s one of my family’s favorites. To make the tacos lower in carbs, use lettuce instead of tortillas. —Recipe contributor Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland

Bacon-Wrapped Avocado WedgesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Avocado, bacon strips, mayonnaise, Sriracha chili sauce Level: Intermediate

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Avocado fans, rejoice! Your favorite buttery, creamy fruit gets a serious upgrade when it's wrapped in salty, smoky bacon. Serve these wedges as a low-carb, keto-friendly appetizer, or add them to salads, sandwiches or wraps. We all know that almost everything is improved with bacon—and avocado is no exception. Since it's made in an air fryer, this appetizer is one to remember. It will definitely impress your friends! —Recipe contributor James Schend, Dairy Freed, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Steak FajitasTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Beef flank steak, whole wheat tortillas, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno pepper Level: Intermediate

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There's something about a platter of sizzling fajitas that makes our mouths water, but this dish isn't exactly friendly on cleanup in the kitchen. Using the air fryer keeps the mess to a minimum by cooking everything in a single basket. If you're feeding a crowd, try serving this dish with your favorite Mexican side dishes so there's enough to go around. Ready for a healthy crunch? You can make air-fryer tortilla chips with way less oil than deep-fried tortilla chips! Zesty salsa and tender strips of meat make these air-fryer steak fajitas extra special. —Recipe contributor Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah

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Air-Fryer French FriesTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Potatoes, coconut or avocado oil, garlic powder Level: Intermediate

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You could certainly pick up a bag of frozen french fries and toss them in the air fryer, but this from-scratch recipe is easier than you'd think. Just be sure to soak the cut potatoes in ice water for 15 minutes before cooking. The water keeps the potatoes from oxidizing and turning brown, and it also pulls out some of the excess starches to help them crisp up as they cook. This low-calorie, air-fryer french fries recipe is perfect because I can whip it up at a moment's notice with ingredients I have on hand. The fries are so crispy you won't miss the deep fryer! —Recipe contributor Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia

Air-Fryer Wasabi Crab CakesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Crab meat, mayonnaise, wasabi, bread crumbs Level: Intermediate

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This recipe had us at "crab cake," but adding wasabi certainly piqued our interest. Prepared wasabi is added to the cakes and to the dipping sauce, infusing the whole dish with wasabi's signature sinus-clearing spice. Of course, there's a good chance the wasabi you buy at the store isn't actually real wasabi (it's probably horseradish), but the addition still makes these crab cakes taste fantastic. With wasabi in both the crab cakes and the dipping sauce, this festive appetizer brings its own heat to the holiday party. —Recipe contributor Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan

Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Caribbean WontonsTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Cream cheese, sweetened shredded coconut, banana, walnuts, canned crushed pineapple, marshmallow creme, wonton wrappers Level: Advanced

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These dessert wontons are a delightful way to end a meal. You can prepare the wontons in advance, storing them in a single layer in the refrigerator while you eat dinner. When you're ready for dessert, preheat the air fryer and the wontons cook in only 12 minutes. I first served these fresh and fruity air-fryer wontons as an appetizer at a summer luau. My family and friends now enjoy this fried wonton recipe for dessert on special occasions throughout the year. —Recipe contributor Melissa Birdsong, Gilbert, South Carolina

Air-Fryer Keto MeatballsTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground beef, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, pesto Level: Intermediate

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Most meatball recipes use bread crumbs, but you won't miss the carbs with this keto-friendly recipe. Three types of cheese come together with eggs to bind the ground beef into a meatball that holds its form while tasting tender and light. Serve these with zucchini noodles to create a filling low-carb meal. I have been following a keto diet for a year and a half and have lost 130 pounds. With this recipe for air-fryer keto meatballs, you won't miss the breadcrumbs at all! I like to eat these saucy meatballs on their own, but they're also great over zucchini noodles. —Recipe contributor Holly Balzer-Harz, Malone, New York

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Air-Fryer Apple FrittersTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon juice, Honeycrisp apples, confectioners' sugar Level: Intermediate

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Air-fryer desserts are our favorite, especially when they taste as good as these apple fritters! If you happen to end up with leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer in the morning for a tasty breakfast treat. These air-fryer apple fritters are healthier than old-fashioned fritters, yet they are still just as delicious. They're a quick and easy dessert with a scrumptious brown butter glaze! —Recipe contributor Alyssa Castriotta, North Scituate, Rhode Island

Air-Fryer Taco TwistsTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground beef, cheddar cheese, salsa, refrigerated crescent rolls Level: Intermediate

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These tacos have a literal twist: Instead of using corn or flour tortillas, crescent roll dough is twisted around the filling and baked in the air fryer. We use ground beef, cheddar cheese, green chilies, onions and salsa in our recipe, but you could easily swap in your favorite taco fillings instead. Why serve tacos only in ordinary flour or corn tortillas? For a mouthwatering change of pace, try these air-fried tacos baked in flaky, golden crescent rolls. My family enjoys them for a warm lunch or light dinner. —Recipe contributor Carla Kreider, Quarryville, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Potato Chips Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Potato ChipsTotal Time: 50 minutes Main Ingredients: Potatoes, olive oil cooking spray, sea salt Level: Intermediate

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After trying this recipe, you may never buy store-bought potato chips again! We recommend using a mandoline (one of our top air-fryer accessories) to cut very thin potato slices. Thick-cut potatoes won't crisp up correctly, so try to get them as thin as possible. For Christmas one year, I received an air fryer. Potato chips are simple to make in it and are an essential, crispy side for lunch. —Recipe contributor Melissa Obernesser, Oriskany, New York

Air-Fryer Spicy Ginger Beef SkewersTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Beef flank steak, minced fresh gingerroot, garlic, sesame oil, Sriracha Level: Advanced

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Did you know that you can make kabobs in the air fryer? They turn out so well! Before you start, measure your air-fryer basket to make sure the skewers will fit. Wooden skewers are great here because you can cut them down to size if they're too big. Just be sure to soak them before cooking so they don't burn. My family loves the flavors of these zippy kabobs. I usually grill them outside, but if it's cold or rainy, I love cooking them in my air fryer. —Recipe contributor Jasey McBurnett, Rock Springs, Wyoming

Air-Fryer Carrot Coffee CakeTotal Time: 50 minutes Main Ingredients: Egg, all-purpose flour, buttermilk, grated orange zest, pumpkin pie spice, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts Level: Intermediate

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An air fryer is basically a countertop convection oven, so it makes sense that you can bake a cake in there (even if you never thought to do it before). A greased 6-inch cake pan fits in most air fryers, resulting in a perfectly sized cake for you and a few guests. One of the greatest things about the air fryer is it's conducive to making small, quick treats—like this air-fryer carrot cake. The little cake bakes in about 30 minutes and is perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee. —Recipe contributor Leigh Rys, Herndon, Virginia

Air-Fried RadishesTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Radishes, olive oil, oregano Level: Intermediate

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Radishes aren't usually the star of the show, but they really shine in this five-ingredient air-fryer recipe. Cooking them smooths out the root's harsh, spicy edge and turns it into a mild and creamy bite. If the radishes come with their tops, don't throw them away; saute them in a little oil and serve them with the roots. Radishes aren't just for salads anymore. These fried radishes make a colorful side for any meal. Plus, they're quick to make in your air fryer. —Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Ham and Egg PocketsTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Deli ham, cheddar cheese, refrigerated crescent rolls Level: Intermediate

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We promise this recipe will exceed any frozen pocket you can get at the store! Feel free to cook the filling in advance (substituting your favorite breakfast meats or vegetables for the ham, if you wish). Then, fold it into the crescent dough just before cooking. Refrigerated crescent roll dough makes this ham, egg and cheese pocket recipe a snap to prepare. —Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Turkey Croquettes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Turkey CroquettesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Mashed potatoes, cooked turkey, panko bread crumbs Level: Intermediate

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This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving leftovers, transforming leftover mashed potatoes and chopped turkey into a cheesy, crunchy bite. They turn out great with any kind of leftover poultry if you're looking for ways to use up extra rotisserie chicken. I grew up with a family that looked forward to Thanksgiving leftovers. But we didn't just reheat turkey and spuds in the microwave—we took our culinary creativity to a new level with recipes like these air-fryer turkey croquettes. Serve them with a crisp green salad for an unforgettable meal. —Recipe contributor Meredith Coe, Charlottesville, Virginia

Air-Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer French Toast SticksTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Day-old Texas toast, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon Level: Intermediate

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Looking for an easy way to feed a crowd when you have guests in town? Make up a batch of these French toast sticks, freeze them on a baking sheet and toss them in a pre-heated air-fryer basket when everyone wakes up. You can store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, so you'll always have this crowd-pleaser on hand. This quick recipe makes it easy to prepare air-fryer French toast sticks. Have them handy in the freezer for a hearty breakfast in an instant. They're also wonderful for buffets and eating on the go. —Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Garlic-Herb Fried Patty Pan SquashTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Pattypan squash, oregano, thyme Level: Intermediate

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You could make this recipe with thick-cut zucchini or summer squash, but it looks so much cooler when it's made with baby patty pans. You can usually find them at the farmers market or in the produce section at a specialty grocery store. The first time I grew a garden, I harvested summer squash and cooked it with garlic and herbs. This fried patty pan squash recipe is a creative twist. —Recipe contributor Kaycee Mason, Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Air-Fryer Quinoa AranciniTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Quinoa, seasoned bread crumbs, mozzarella cheese Level: Intermediate

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Arancini are deep-fried rice balls that are traditionally made with leftover risotto, but this protein-packed version uses nutty quinoa instead. When forming the quinoa balls, make sure the mixture sticks together without falling apart before you shape it around the cheese. Otherwise, the cheese can spill out, making quite a mess in your air fryer. We love arancini, but they're not the healthiest option! I wanted to make a version that we could enjoy guilt-free. I substituted quinoa for rice and tried baking instead of frying. Now we can have these air-fryer arancini anytime. —Recipe contributor Sabrina Ovadia, New York, New York

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Air-Fryer Chicken TendersTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Bread crumbs, cheese crackers, chicken tenderloins Level: Intermediate

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Who needs frozen chicken tenders when they're this easy to make at home? The breading for this recipe is made with more than just bread crumbs: Crushed potato sticks, cheese crackers and crumbled bacon are added to give these tenders a burst of flavor with each bite. It's easiest to make these with chicken tenders, but you can substitute chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips if you can't find them. I added all of the components of a loaded baked potato—cheddar, potato, bacon, sour cream and chives—to my latest quick and easy dish. Every kid will love these chicken tenders! —Recipe contributor Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida

Cheesy Breakfast Egg RollsTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Bulk pork sausage, eggs, egg roll wrappers, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese Level: Advanced

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You'll fall in love with this fun breakfast take on wontons. They're like mini breakfast burritos, but with a crispy shell instead of a soft tortilla. If you end up with extra wonton skins, try making some of these wonton wrapper recipes. Whether you have to run out the door in the morning or take a few minutes to relax at the table, these breakfast egg rolls will hit the spot. The egg and sausage mixture can be made the night before, so in the morning, just roll, fry and go! —Recipe contributor Anne Ormond, Dover, New Hampshire

Air-Fryer General Tso’s CauliflowerTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Club soda, cauliflower, orange soda, grated orange zest Level: Intermediate

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General Tso is pretty famous for his chicken, but this plant-based recipe may have you thinking twice about whether the meat is necessary. The sauce contains a ton of ingredients, but it's definitely worth making. It tastes almost exactly like the restaurant version of this recipe! Cauliflower florets are fried to a crispy golden brown, then coated in a sauce with just the right amount of kick. This General Tso's cauliflower is a fun alternative to the classic chicken dish. —Recipe contributor Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

Air-Fryer Beef Wellington WontonsTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground beef, shiitake mushrooms, baby portobello mushrooms, white mushrooms, wonton wrappers, dry red wine Level: Intermediate

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Looking to upgrade the appetizer game at your next potluck event? These mini beef Wellingtons look amazing, and they taste even better. If you don't need the whole batch, freeze the leftovers and save them for your next event. These tasty appetizers scale down classic beef Wellington to an ideal party size. They feel fancy and fun! —Recipe contributor Dianne Phillips, Tallapoosa, Georgia

Air-Fryer Pork ChopsTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Boneless pork loin chops, almond flour, Parmesan cheese Level: Intermediate

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Pork chops can dry out and become chewy when they're not cooked properly. Luckily, the bread crumb topping on this air-fryer recipe seals in moisture, protecting against tough chops. To ensure you don't overcook them, use an instant-read meat thermometer. These air-fryer pork chops get their rich flavor from Creole seasoning and Parmesan cheese. —Recipe contributor Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia

Air-Fryer Chicken ThighsTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Bone-in chicken thighs, paprika, garlic powder Level: Beginner

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This simple dish is perfect for a Sunday night to prepare you for the week. You can even use it in your meal prep. This air-fryer chicken thighs recipe creates meat that is crispy on the outside but super juicy on the inside. The paprika and garlic seasoning blend comes through beautifully. —Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Bacon Crescent RollsTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Refrigerated crescent rolls, bacon strips, onion powder Level: Beginner

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With precooked bacon, these three-ingredient crescent rolls are ready in a cinch. But for a smoky smell that will permeate your kitchen, fresh bacon is the way to go. Even kids can help set up this fun breakfast or appetizer. The mouthwatering aroma of warm bacon from these three-ingredient crescent rolls will draw folks to the table. Air-fryer recipes like this one are fun for children to prepare, and these are such a cinch to assemble with precooked bacon. —Recipe contributor Jane Nearing, Indianapolis, Indiana

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Air-Fryer Chickpea Fritters with Sweet-Spicy SauceTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Plain yogurt, canned chickpeas, honey, red pepper flakes Level: Intermediate

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Chickpea fritters make a fabulous appetizer for mixed company because they're naturally vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free (except the yogurt dipping sauce, of course). To turn them into a main dish, wrap them up in a pita with hummus and chopped tomatoes, or use them instead of falafel in a Mediterranean Cobb salad. Chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dishes in Pakistan, where I grew up. I try to incorporate the tastes of my home country when cooking for my American-born daughters. With these air-fryer fritters, I have combined the light spice of Pakistani foods with the love of deep-fried finger foods that many Americans, including my daughters, enjoy. —Recipe contributor Shahrin Hasan, York, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Crispy Sriracha Spring RollsTotal Time: 1 hour Main Ingredients: Coleslaw, boneless skinless chicken breasts, Sriracha chili sauce, spring roll wrappers Level: Advanced

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These spring rolls depart from the classic takeout variety by packing the filling with softened cream cheese. The texture is incredible! Plus, the combination of shredded chicken, sweet-and-spicy Sriracha and sesame-infused coleslaw mix comes together in a really fun way. These air-fryer spring rolls are a fabulous appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! While we were in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that serves amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. —Recipe contributor Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba

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Air-Fryer Pork SchnitzelTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Dry bread crumbs, pork sirloin cutlets, sour cream, dill Level: Intermediate

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German-style schnitzel is typically pan-fried in oil, but the air fryer does an incredible job while using a fraction of the fat. Pork cutlets are ideal here because they've been pounded thin and cook through by the time the breading crisps. Boneless loin chops can be used instead, but you'll want to butterfly them or use a meat mallet to create the right size. This recipe is one of my husband's favorites because it reminds him of his German roots. Cooking pork schnitzel in an air fryer is genius because we can eat it in a jiffy. —Recipe contributor Joyce Folker, Paraowan, Utah

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Air-Fryer Mushroom Roll-UpsTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Large portobello mushrooms, cream cheese, flour tortillas Level: Intermediate

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These party appetizers can be made ahead of time. With cream cheese and ricotta, they're crispy and creamy. Serve this Top Chef-inspired recipe with your favorite chutney. This party appetizer was inspired by a dish I saw on an episode of Top Chef. I simplified the snacks a little and tweaked the flavors a bit. These mushroom roll-ups can be made ahead and reheated in a 250° oven for 10 minutes. —Recipe contributor Lillian Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

Air-Fryer French Toast Cups with RaspberriesTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Italian bread, raspberries, cream cheese, eggs Level: Intermediate

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These French toast cups are a fun twist on the original, elevating a plate of toast into a meal worthy of a special occasion. You'll want to plan ahead and let the bread soak for about an hour before cooking to make sure it finishes with the right texture. These air-fryer French toast cups make any morning special. I made this recipe for my mom on Mother's Day, and we both enjoyed it. —Recipe contributor Sandi Tuttle, Hayward, Wisconsin

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Air-Fryer Shrimp Po’BoysTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Creole mustard, herbs de Provence, sweetened shredded coconut, uncooked shrimp, hoagie buns Level: Intermediate

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A classic po'boy sandwich features roast beef, oysters or fried shrimp stuffed inside flaky French bread. We make the classic even more delicious by filling the sandwich with air-fried coconut shrimp instead. The combination of coconut and homemade remoulade works surprisingly well! My husband loves crispy coconut shrimp and po'boys, so I combined them with a spicy remoulade and voila! This air-fryer shrimp is a big hit with family and friends and is frequently requested. For catfish po'boys, substitute cornmeal for the coconut and add a few minutes to the cooking time. —Recipe contributor Marla Clark, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Air-Fryer S’mores Crescent RollsTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Refrigerated crescent rolls, Nutella, Graham crackers, milk chocolate chips, miniature marshmallows Level: Intermediate

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Who says you need a campfire to make s'mores? Instead, sprinkle crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips and marshmallows onto crescent rolls and bake them in the air fryer. We add a little Nutella to the mix to make sure these rolls have a creamy, chocolaty consistency inside. Want to score indoor s'mores? Try these air-fryer crescent rolls made with Nutella. The kids will love to help with this rolled-up version of the campfire classic. —Recipe contributor Cathy Trochelman, Brookfield, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Fish Tacos Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Fish TacosTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Tilapia fillets, corn tortillas, panko bread crumbs Level: Intermediate

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Baja-style tacos feature breaded, fried fish served in a tortilla with a creamy white sauce. This recipe has all of those components, but the air fryer reduces excess oil while producing the same crispy result. Tilapia is an inexpensive choice for these tacos, but you can use any white fish, like cod or rockfish. These crispy air-fryer fish tacos are good enough to challenge the best food truck. I love that the fish is deliciously guilt-free because it’s air-fried instead of deep-fried. —Recipe contributor Lena Lim, Seattle, Washington

Air-Fryer QuesadillasTotal Time: 10 minutes Main Ingredients: Flour tortillas, salsa, shredded Mexican cheese blend Level: Beginner

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Sure, you can make quesadillas in the microwave, but they have a tendency to turn out a little soggy. Air-fryer quesadillas are light and crisp, and the cheese still melts perfectly. Feel free to customize these quesadillas, leaving them cheese-only or adding beef, chicken, pork or vegetables. I like to make these air-fryer quesadillas for party appetizers. Just cut them into thinner triangles. You can also switch up the cheese and the salsa to suit your taste. —Recipe contributor Terri Keeney, Greeley, Colorado

Air-Fryer Peanut Butter CookiesTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Egg, sugar, creamy peanut butter Level: Beginner

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This air-fryer dessert recipe only requires three ingredients. Seriously! You can jazz the cookies up with melted chocolate, chopped toffee or candy like M&M's, but they taste great with pure peanut flavor, too. To make them look fancier, use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on the top before baking. An iconic American cookie, this version is so easy to mix up and bakes even faster in the air fryer. With these air-fryer peanut butter cookies, cravings can now be satisfied in mere minutes. —Recipe contributor Maggie Schimmel, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer TaquitosTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground beef, corn tortillas, bread crumbs, taco seasoning Level: Intermediate

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Taquitos are deep-fried or baked tortillas that have been rolled around fillings like meat or cheese. They're similar to flautas, but taquitos are usually made with corn tortillas (whereas flautas are made with flour tortillas). You can use store-bought tortillas, but if you have time, make corn tortillas from scratch. I love these any-occasion air-fryer taquitos. Spice them up by adding sliced jalapenos if desired. —Recipe contributor Mark Webber, Valdez, Alaska

Air-Fryer ScallopsTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Mashed potato flakes, seasoned bread crumbs, scallops Level: Intermediate

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These scallops have a crunchy breading with a secret ingredient: mashed potato flakes! This ingenious addition gives the crisp scallops an extra burst of flavor. I never liked seafood until my husband urged me to try scallops, and now I love it. With the crunchy breading, these air-fryer scallops are the best you'll ever have. —Recipe contributor Martina Preston, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania

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Air-Fryer Breaded ShrimpTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Panko breadcrumbs, uncooked shrimp, all-purpose flour, 2% milk, egg Level: Intermediate

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Air-fried coconut shrimp is one of our most popular recipes, but not everyone loves that coconut flavor. This "fried" shrimp recipe uses savory seasonings instead, spicing the bread crumbs with seafood seasoning and dill weed. If you're watching your salt intake, make your own salt-free seafood seasoning. These quick air-fryer shrimp are so good you won't even miss the fat! Eat them alone with cocktail sauce or put them on a salad or sandwich. —Recipe contributor Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Nashville Hot ChickenTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Chicken tenderloins, dill pickle juice, hot pepper sauce Level: Intermediate

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The beauty of making Nashville hot chicken in an air fryer is that you can customize the heat level. Sensitive palates may find this dish too spicy to be palatable at a restaurant, but at home, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to tone it down. I live in Tennessee and absolutely love our state's famous Nashville hot chicken. To make cooking it easier, I thought I’d try air-frying. I’m so glad I did—this Nashville hot chicken recipe is almost better than the original. —Recipe contributor April Lane, Greeneville, Tennessee

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Air Fryer Tortellini with ProsciuttoTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Tomato puree, seasoned bread crumbs, prosciutto ricotta tortellini Level: Intermediate

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Elevate that bag of store-bought tortellini by "frying" it in the air fryer. The pasta shells turn golden brown and crunchy, while the cheesy filling stays warm and melty. We make a decadent from-scratch tomato sauce to serve on the side, but you can use jarred pasta sauce if you're running short on time. This recipe is my take on Italian street food, and these tortellini are crunchy and gooey. Use the best-quality tomatoes you can find for the sauce—it's so good that you'll want to double it and serve it over pasta. If you don't have an air fryer, you can make these in a deep fryer, an electric skillet or on the stovetop. —Recipe contributor Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey

Air-Fryer Cumin CarrotsTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Coriander seeds, cumin seeds, carrots, coconut oil or butter Level: Intermediate

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Roasting carrots deepens their flavor, turning them into tender bites with a rich and sweet flavor. Adding cumin to the mix enhances the carrot's naturally earthy flavor, creating a perfect side dish alongside bold meats. They also taste great when added to vegetarian quinoa or rice bowls. Air-fryer carrots make a super side—big on flavor and a breeze to cook. Plus, I can actually get my husband to eat these fragrant, deeply spiced veggies. —Recipe contributor Taylor Kiser, Brandon, Florida

Air-Fryer Mini ChimichangasTotal Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground beef, taco seasoning, egg roll wrappers, shredded Monterey Jack cheese Level: Intermediate

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Deep-frying a burrito turns it into this Tex-Mex staple, but the air fryer works just as well. To create an extra-crispy exterior, we use egg roll wrappers instead of the classic choice of flour tortillas. That makes them miniatures, so you might want to eat a couple if you're enjoying this dish for dinner. My family raves about these air-fryer chimichangas. Infused with green chiles, the beefy snacks are guaranteed to liven up the party! —Recipe contributor Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio

Air-Fryer Loaded Pork BurritosTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Boneless pork loin, long grain rice, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, flour tortillas, canned black beans Level: Intermediate

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Pulled pork, like slow-cooked carnitas, typically takes hours, but this air-fryer pork burrito takes a shortcut by using pork loin instead of pork shoulder. Thinly sliced pork loin cooks in about 10 minutes, creating juicy meat that tastes great inside a burrito. Air-fryer burritos are quick and easy—the perfect dinner for the whole family. Don't be afraid to load your tortillas with pork, beans, cheese and rice. —Recipe contributor Fiona Seels, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Air-Fryer Honey Cinnamon Roll-upsTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground walnuts, cinnamon, frozen phyllo dough, honey Level: Intermediate

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If you love baklava but don't want to go through all the trouble of layering all the ingredients, try making these phyllo dough roll-ups. Each sheet is rolled with cinnamon, sugar, walnuts and butter before being cut into four pieces to fit inside the air fryer. It's a simple, but absolutely delicious dessert. This cinnamon treat reminds me of baklava; but with only a few easy ingredients, it's a fraction of the work. My Aunt Adele shared the recipe with me, and I think of her whenever I make it. It's one of my favorite air-fryer snacks! —Recipe contributor Sue Falk, Sterling Heights, Michigan

Air-Fryer Acorn Squash SlicesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Acorn squash, brown sugar, butter Level: Intermediate

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One of the things we love most about acorn squash (other than its sweet, roasty flavor) is that you don't have to peel it. The peels soften as the slices cook and are totally safe to eat. That said, if anyone is anti-peel, it will separate easily from the meat after it cooks, so your guests can remove it on the plate. This air-fryer acorn squash recipe was adapted from the one passed down from my grandma, who always served it at Thanksgiving. I make it in my air fryer whenever I'm feeling nostalgic. —Recipe contributor Rita Addicks, Weimar, Texas

Best-Ever Grilled Cheese SandwichesTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Sourdough bread, Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon Level: Beginner

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Most people make grilled cheese sandwiches on the stovetop, but we've found the air fryer works just as well. After building the sandwich, slather a thin layer of butter on the outside of each piece of bread, and the air fryer will transform it into golden-brown deliciousness. If the fan blows off the top piece of bread, secure it with a toothpick. You can also use your imagination to make other grilled cheese sandwich ideas, such as chives, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning, and even a spoonful of salsa. —Recipe contributor Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah

Air-Fryer Beefy Swiss BundlesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Ground beef, puff pastry, shredded Swiss cheese, mushrooms, mashed potatoes Level: Intermediate

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Crispy puff pastry stuffed with spiced ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, savory mushrooms and ooey-gooey cheese? Yes, please! It gets even better: You can make these bundles in advance, freeze them and cook straight from the freezer without thawing. Kids and adults alike will devour these unusual yet comforting pockets. With creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese and flavorful seasonings, what's not to love? —Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Chicken WingsTotal Time: 50 minutes Main Ingredients: Whole chicken wings, baking soda, garlic powder, ground allspice, cayenne pepper Level: Intermediate

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The air fryer was made for chicken wings! The skin crisps up perfectly in the high heat, so there's no need to add a breading or batter coating to your wings. We recommend using fresh wings for this recipe, as frozen wings will take much longer to cook. You can't go wrong with these crispy air-fryer chicken wings. Our spice rub has a nice kick from the cayenne seasoning. —Recipe contributor Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer LatkesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Potatoes, onion, garlic powder, all-purpose flour, egg Level: Intermediate

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These crispy potato pancakes are delightful, but they can turn out heavy and greasy when pan-fried in oil. Luckily, the air fryer resolves that issue. If you're looking for something more than the classic sour cream or applesauce accompaniment, try one of these tasty latke topping ideas. Here's a potato pancake recipe that doesn't take much time to make and is just right for two people. Weekends become our time to relax and enjoy life, and these potato pancakes are one of our favorite treats. —Recipe contributor Nancy Salinas, Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Air-Fryer Bourbon Bacon Cinnamon RollsTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Cinnamon rolls with icing, bacon, bourbon Level: Intermediate

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Elevate the humble cinnamon roll with this air-fryer recipe. The bacon is soaked overnight in bourbon, infusing it with rich notes of caramel and vanilla. Combine those flavors with maple syrup, pecans and ginger, and you have a cinnamon roll that's fit for a king. This recipe is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. The bourbon-soaked bacon adds a smoky, savory, bold taste to the cinnamon rolls. The ginger and pecan topping makes for a crunchy, spicy finish. —Recipe contributor Shannen Casey, Citrus Heights, California

Air-Fryer Fiesta Chicken FingersTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Boneless skinless chicken breasts, buttermilk, corn chips, taco seasoning Level: Intermediate

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There are dozens of chicken finger recipes out there, but this one combines crushed corn chips and a packet of taco seasoning to create a burst of festive flavor. They taste great with a side of sour cream, but you can never go wrong with serving them with a creamy ranch dip. Chicken fingers have long been a favorite of mine. Actually, almost any finger-shaped deep-fried goodie seldom escapes my reach. These air-fryer chicken fingers have taken the guilt out of my guilty pleasure. —Recipe contributor Dianne DeGarmo-Carr, Alexander, Arkansas

Air-Fryer BrowniesTotal Time: 55 minutes Main Ingredients: 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate baking chips, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour Level: Intermediate

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We typically make these brownies in a 6-inch square pan, but you may have to get creative depending on the size of your air-fryer basket. A 6-inch round pan also works, or you can divide the batter into 8- or 10-ounce ramekins. The center will have a gooey consistency that's reminiscent of a lava cake. These small-batch fudgy air-fryer brownies come together quickly, and no oven is required. Top with nuts or powdered sugar for a quick homemade treat. —Recipe contributor Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Roasted Green BeansTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Green beans, mushrooms, red onion, Italian seasoning Level: Intermediate

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Roasted green beans are one of our favorite easy side dishes that go with any meal. This recipe toasts the green beans with onions and mushrooms, but you can leave the extra vegetables out if you're cooking for picky eaters. Our family loves roasted green beans, but they can take a long time in the oven. I tried these air-fryer green beans, and we loved them! —Recipe contributor Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas

Air-Fryer Reuben CalzonesTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Pizza crust, sauerkraut, corned beef, Swiss cheese Level: Intermediate

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Some calzones prioritize cheese over all other toppings, but this recipe uses Swiss cheese instead of stringy mozzarella. That puts the focus on the corned beef and sauerkraut, so the dish tastes almost exactly like your favorite deli Reuben. I love a Reuben sandwich, so I tried the same classic filling in a pizza pocket instead of on rye bread. This hand-held dinner is a big-time winner at our house. —Recipe contributor Nickie Frye, Evansville, Indiana

Air-Fryer Scotch EggsTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Pork sausage, hard-boiled large eggs, cornflakes Level: Intermediate

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If you really want to nail this air-fryer scotch egg recipe, start with learning how to boil eggs to the perfect consistency. You may prefer a soft-boiled egg with a runnier yolk, but remember that it may be more difficult to shape the sausage around the egg. These air-fryer Scotch eggs are amazing when they're hot right after cooking, but I also love eating them cold for a snack before a soccer or baseball game. —Recipe contributor Dorothy Smith, El Dorado, Arkansas

Air-Fryer BratsTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Bratwurst links, onion, dill, beer, thick bread Level: Beginner

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Beer brats are one of our favorite summertime grilling recipes, but we think this air-fryer bratwurst recipe tastes just as good. Instead of starting by boiling the brats in beer, we finish them with a gravy made with non-alcoholic beer instead. These air-fryer brats are a nod to my German heritage. I serve them with a green vegetable and some french fries or mashed potatoes on the side. For a deeper sauce flavor, try using a lager or stout beer. —Recipe contributor Allison Ochoa, Hays, Kansas

Air-Fryer Rosemary Sausage MeatballsTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Pork sausage, fresh rosemary, dry bread crumbs, diced pimientos, curry powder, garlic cloves Level: Intermediate

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These meatballs are packed full of flavor between the bulk sausage, tangy pimentos, earthy curry powder and herbaceous rosemary. We like serving these with pretzel sticks as "toothpicks," making them easy to pick up as an appetizer bite. These air-fryer meatballs were created as hors d'oeuvres for a friend's wedding and became an instant hit. Now we enjoy them often at our house. —Recipe contributor Steve Hansen, Redmond, Washington

Air-Fryer Cookie PieTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Nutella, brickle toffee bits, vanilla extract Level: Intermediate

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Thankfully, baked goods are one of the better things you can make in an air fryer. But why make many cookies when you can enjoy a giant one stuffed with Nutella, no less? Surprisingly (or not, since you’re using an air fryer), this thick cookie pie takes half the time as a few dozen in the oven. My mom used to make cookie bars for every school event growing up. This is my updated version. It takes half the time and tastes just like Mom used to make. —Recipe contributor Ashley Long, Mission, Kansas

Air-Fryer Southwestern Chicken EnchiladasTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Shredded cooked chicken, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, chili seasoning mix, flour tortillas, enchilada sauce Level: Intermediate

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This easy recipe gets dinner on the table in no time. Simply roll rotisserie chicken, beans, cheese and spices in tortillas, add enchilada sauce, and cook in the air fryer for at least 10 minutes. Serve with guacamole, sour cream and any of your favorite toppings. These air-fryer enchiladas are not only quick and easy but also a perfect dinner for Taco Tuesday or any day of the week. Use rotisserie chicken for a quick source of cooked chicken. Dinner will be on the table in less than half an hour. —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Air-Fryer CodTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Cod fillets, fat-free Italian salad dressing, garlic powder, curry powder Level: Intermediate

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If you’re new to cooking fish or just afraid to try it in general, using an air fryer is a pretty straightforward way to go about it. After marinating for a few minutes, cod, one of the best fish to eat, comes out flaky, light and delicious. This air-fryer cod recipe will convert even the biggest fish skeptic. It's healthy and delicious—no breading needed! —Recipe contributor Kim Russell, North Wales, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Sausage Bacon BitesTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Bacon, frozen fully cooked breakfast sausage links, brown sugar Level: Intermediate

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Bacon-wrapped sausage links are the best two-in-one breakfast treat since, well, maybe ever. A little sprinkle of brown sugar before going in the air fryer gives a sweet caramelized flavor that goes perfectly with eggs and pancakes or alone as a poppable bite. Try surprising your family on Sunday morning by pulling these bites out of the air fryer as they head to breakfast, and get ready for the oohs and aahs of delight. They're equally delicious as a party appetizer. —Recipe contributor Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio

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Air-Fryer Puff Pastry DanishesTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Cream cheese, puff pastry, seedless raspberry jam Level: Intermediate

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Who needs to go to the nearest bakery when all you need to make great Danishes is frozen puff pastry, a sweetened cream cheese filling and your favorite fruit spread? You can even make them savory. Serve at your next brunch or party. These simple jam-filled pastries are perfect for a holiday brunch spread. They were my dad's favorite, so the recipe will always be close to my heart. —Recipe contributor Chellie Helmke, Jackson Center, Ohio

Air-Fryer EmpanadasTotal Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Main Ingredients: Fresh goat cheese, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, pie crust Level: Intermediate

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These make-ahead empanadas will be the first thing off the table at your next party. With sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese, they're creamy with just the right amount of bite. I entertain a lot, so I appreciate make-ahead recipes. These air-fryer empanadas are easy and delicious. I recommend making a few extra batches—they go fast! —Recipe contributor Lynn Scully, Rancho Santa Fe, California

Air-Fryer Chicken FajitasTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Lime juice, chili powder, boneless skinless chicken breasts, bell peppers, onion, corn tortillas Level: Intermediate

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The beauty of cooking fajitas in an air fryer is not having a lot of mess to clean up later. While they only take 10 to 15 minutes to cook, give yourself some extra time to marinate the chicken. To serve, have corn or flour tortillas and your favorite salsa at the ready. Do you have fajitas only if you go to a Mexican restaurant? Then this air-fryer chicken fajitas recipe is just what you need. It's simple to put together, and by cooking the fajitas in an air fryer, you avoid a lot of the mess. —Recipe contributor Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Avocado FriesTotal Time: 40 minutes Main Ingredients: Egg, cornmeal, garlic powder, ground chipotle pepper, avocados Level: Intermediate

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When you have too many avocados that aren’t quite ripe yet, forget the guacamole. Slice them up and coat them in cornmeal to make crispy avocado fries! Great alone with a dipping sauce or even on tacos, it’s a unique and healthy snack. Avocados just got even more exciting! These juicy, flavorful, easy and healthy air-fryer avocado fries are for those who are huge fans of avocado. They even go well on tacos! —Recipe contributor Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland

Air-Fryer Cinnamon Breakfast BitesTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: All-purpose flour, Rice Krispies, milk, cinnamon, butter Level: Intermediate

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Let the kids help with this easy almost-doughnut recipe. Flour, crushed crispy rice cereal, milk and a few other ingredients create the easy-to-roll dough. Drop the balls in butter, then cinnamon sugar, pop them in the air fryer, and everyone has a quick sweet treat that puts endless smiles on their faces. These scrumptious breakfast treats are so quick and easy to make, and the air fryer gives this a crispy, sugary coating that's hard to resist. —Recipe contributor Ruth Hastings, Louisville, Illinois

Zucchini FriesTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Zucchini, panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce Level: Intermediate

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Fried zucchini by another name, these panko-coated sticks take healthy snacking to a whole new level. Serve with lots of homemade ranch dressing or zippy marinara sauce, or any of your other favorite dipping sauces. These aren't anything like potato fries—in a good way! They are air-fried to crispy perfection and oh, so flavorful. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a low-carb alternative to french fries. Don't have an air fryer? You can convection-bake them for the same amount of time. —Recipe contributor Jen Pahl, West Allis, Wisconsin

Air-Fryer Apple DanishTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Refrigerated crescent rolls, applesauce, apple cider or juice Level: Intermediate

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These fruit-filled treats are so easy to make, thanks to crescent roll dough and applesauce. Brush the pastries with apple cider before sprinkling with cinnamon sugar, and make a quick glaze for swirling when they come out of the air fryer. I came up with this quick and tasty treat when my daughter had a sleepover. I whipped these together in no time, and the girls devoured them! —Recipe contributor Jennifer Stowell, Deep River, Iowa

Air-Fryer CheesecakeTotal Time: 1 hour 5 minutes Main Ingredients: Graham cracker crumbs, cream cheese, vanilla extract, sour cream Level: Intermediate

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Yes, you can make a cheesecake in an air fryer! It’s just like any delicious cheesecake, a delightful filling made with cream cheese, sugar, eggs and sour cream poured into a graham cracker crust. Only this one takes half the time (you’ll still need to chill it before slicing and serving). This air-fryer cheesecake is something I've been making and perfecting for years. My daughter insisted it be served at her wedding. —Recipe contributor Howard Koch, Lima, Ohio

Air-Fryer Bacon Egg CupsTotal Time: 35 minutes Main Ingredients: Bacon strips, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese Level: Intermediate

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You’ll need to make some air-fryer bacon before assembling these individual egg cups, but otherwise, they make breakfast a breeze. Use these for meal prep for the week ahead, too! Just make sure the ramekin is air fryer-safe for cooking and reheating. These adorable bacon egg cups are a fresh take on the classic breakfast combo. I originally baked these, but they're amazing in the air fryer—no need to heat up the oven! —Recipe contributor Carol Forcum, Marion, Illinois

Air-Fryer PlantainsTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Green plantains, garlic salt, onion powder, garlic powder Level: Intermediate

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Tostones, or fried plantains, are a staple in places like Puerto Rico and Cuba, and making them in the air fryer lightens up the usually deep-fried snack. Both yellow and black plantains, which are green plantains that have ripened a bit more, can be used in this recipe. But for the best results, look for plantains with some patches of both yellow and black. Having grown up in Puerto Rico, I've had so much amazing Caribbean food, but tostones have always been a favorite of mine. Traditionally they are deep-fried, but this version of air-fryer plantains gives me the same fabulous taste without some of the calories. —Recipe contributor Leah Martin, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Pecan Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Pecan Strawberry Rhubarb CobblerTotal Time: 45 minutes Main Ingredients: Rhubarb, strawberries, quick-cooking tapioca, pecans, vanilla ice cream, Marsala wine Level: Intermediate

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Sometimes you only need dessert for two, and that’s when the air fryer really comes in handy. Make this simple fruit cobbler topped with pecans for a sweet end to any meal. Chock-full of berries and rhubarb, this pretty cobbler is the perfect finale for a dinner for two. Both the pecans in the topping and the delicious dessert sauce make it extra special. —Recipe contributor Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

Air-Fryer Sweet Potato FriesTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, garlic powder, paprika Level: Beginner

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While it's certainly easy to cook a bag of frozen sweet potato fries in your air fryer, it's quite fun to make them from scratch. I can never get enough of these air-fryer sweet potato fries! Even though my grocery store sells them in the frozen foods section, I still love to pull sweet potatoes out of my garden and slice them up fresh! —Recipe contributor Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

Taste of Home

Air-Fryer Almond ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Boneless skinless chicken breasts, slivered almonds, garlic salt, buttermilk Level: Intermediate

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To make breaded chicken a little healthy, swap the bread crumb coating with almonds! It's a low-carb dinner you're sure to love. My husband bought an air fryer about 6 months ago after seeing it on television. We have used it at least twice a week and love how delicious the food has been. The chicken recipes we have tried are especially good because of how moist the chicken remains. We started a low-carb diet and did not want to use bread crumbs, so we tried the chicken with almonds. It's a favorite now. —Recipe contributor Pamela Shank, Parkersburg, West Virginia

Air-Fryer Pork TenderloinTotal Time: 30 minutes Main Ingredients: Pork tenderloin, spicy brown mustard, garlic powder, onion powder Level: Intermediate

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This pork tenderloin is faster to make in the air fryer than in the oven. Try it for a nice Sunday dinner with roasted veggies and risotto. I originally developed this air-fryer pork tenderloin recipe to cook on the stove and finish in the oven, but you can make it even quicker in an air fryer—and it's just as tasty. —Recipe contributor Lynn Faria, Southington, Connecticut

Air-Fryer Garlic-Butter SteakTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Beef flat iron steak/boneless top sirloin steak, butter, garlic, reduced-sodium soy sauce Level: Beginner

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You can cook steak on the stove, in the oven, on the grill...and now in an air fryer! You might even call it restaurant quality. Just don't skip the garlic butter! This quick and easy air-fryer steak recipe is restaurant quality. It's about to become a staple at your house! —Recipe contributor Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

Air-Fryer Red PotatoesTotal Time: 20 minutes Main Ingredients: Red potatoes, rosemary, garlic Level: Beginner

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Need more oven space? Roast red potatoes in your air fryer to free up your oven for a roast chicken or other main dish. Fragrant rosemary gives these taters a subtle flavor. Roasting is one of my favorite ways to prepare veggies. Some fragrant rosemary, fresh or dried, gives these air-fryer red potatoes a distinctive but subtle taste. The dish is simple to prepare yet elegant in color and flavor. It's a wonderful addition to any menu. —Recipe contributor Margie Wampler, Butler, Pennsylvania

Air-Fryer Eggplant FriesTotal Time: 25 minutes Main Ingredients: Eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggplant Level: Intermediate

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Swap french fries for a new kind of fry using eggplant. They have a wonderful texture and are much healthier. This guilt-free side will become a new family favorite. My kids love these air-fryer fries, and I like that they're healthy. Coated with Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese and garlic salt, these eggplant fries are delicious and guilt-free. —Recipe contributor Mary Murphy, Atwater, California