The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier and faster way to enjoy your favorite foods. If you’re new to the air fryer world or just looking for some easy recipes to expand your repertoire, you’ve come to the right place. This guide dives deep into the best easy things to cook in air fryer, transforming your kitchen experience into a breeze.
Key Takeaways
This article will provide you with:
- A curated list of the easiest and most delicious recipes perfect for your air fryer.
- Tips and tricks to ensure your air fryer creations come out perfectly every time.
- Guidance on choosing the right air fryer and essential accessories.
- Solutions to common air fryer problems.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s quickly explore the benefits of using an air fryer. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, mimicking the results of deep frying but with significantly less oil. This means healthier meals without sacrificing that satisfying crispy texture. They’re also incredibly convenient, offering faster cooking times and easier cleanup compared to traditional ovens. Embracing the best easy things to cook in air fryer is not just about convenience; it’s about healthier, tastier food.
Top 10 Best Easy Things to Cook in Air Fryer
Here are 10 of the best easy things to cook in air fryer, perfect for beginners and seasoned air fryer enthusiasts alike:
1. Crispy Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are an air fryer staple. Simply toss your wings with your favorite seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika – the possibilities are endless!), and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result? Incredibly crispy and juicy wings that rival your favorite restaurant’s.
2. Frozen French Fries
Say goodbye to soggy fries! Frozen french fries are transformed in the air fryer. Just toss them in and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. You’ll get perfectly crispy fries every single time. This is one of the best easy things to cook in air fryer for a quick snack or side.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and carrots roast beautifully in the air fryer. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. The air fryer gives them a delicious char and crispy edges.
4. Shrimp Scampi
This elegant dish is surprisingly easy to make in the air fryer. Toss shrimp with garlic, butter, lemon juice, and parsley. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Serve over pasta or rice.
5. Tater Tots
Another freezer favorite that excels in the air fryer. Air fry tater tots at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. These come out perfectly crispy and golden brown.
6. Pizza Rolls
A quick and easy snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Air fry frozen pizza rolls at 380°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, until heated through and golden brown.
7. Bacon
Cooking bacon in the air fryer is a game-changer. It’s less messy and yields perfectly crispy bacon every time. Place bacon strips in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, depending on your desired crispiness.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Yes, you can even make grilled cheese in the air fryer! Butter the outside of your bread slices and assemble your sandwich with cheese. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
9. Salmon Fillet
Cooking salmon in the air fryer results in a perfectly cooked, flaky fillet. Season your salmon with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
10. Cookies
While perhaps unexpected, cookies from frozen dough (or homemade!) are amazing in the air fryer! They cook quickly and have a nice crisp edge. Use the same time and temperature as listed on the package instructions, but check them frequently as they can cook faster.
Tips for Air Fryer Success
To make sure you consistently enjoy the best easy things to cook in air fryer, here are a few helpful tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Work in batches if necessary.
- Shake the basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures even browning and crispiness.
- Use oil sparingly: While air fryers use less oil than deep fryers, a light coating of oil can help achieve a crispier texture. Use an oil sprayer for even distribution.
- Preheat your air fryer: Preheating your air fryer for a few minutes can help ensure more even cooking.
- Clean your air fryer regularly: Regular cleaning will prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer
With so many air fryers on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Consider these factors:
- Size: Choose a size that suits your needs. If you’re cooking for a large family, you’ll need a larger capacity air fryer.
- Features: Some air fryers come with additional features like preset cooking programs, digital displays, and temperature controls.
- Price: Air fryers range in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Set a budget and find an air fryer that fits your needs within that price range.
Finding the right air fryer is key to unlocking the potential of the best easy things to cook in air fryer.
Essential Air Fryer Accessories
While not strictly necessary, these accessories can enhance your air frying experience:
- Parchment paper liners: These make cleanup a breeze and prevent food from sticking to the basket.
- Oil sprayer: For evenly distributing oil over your food.
- Cake pan or baking dish: For baking cakes, muffins, and other desserts.
- Skewers: For making kebabs and other grilled items.
Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Problems
Even with the best air fryer, you might encounter a few snags. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Food is not cooking evenly: Make sure you’re not overcrowding the basket and that you’re shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- Food is sticking to the basket: Use parchment paper liners or spray the basket with cooking oil.
- Food is burning: Reduce the cooking time or temperature.
- Air fryer is smoking: Make sure the basket is clean and that you’re not using too much oil.
Conclusion: Embrace the Air Fryer Revolution
The air fryer is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that can help you create delicious and healthy meals with ease. By mastering the best easy things to cook in air fryer, you’ll unlock a world of culinary possibilities and transform your cooking routine. So, get ready to enjoy crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free meals with your trusty air fryer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I cook raw chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely cook raw chicken in an air fryer! Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer to verify.
Is an air fryer healthier than deep frying?
Definitely! Air fryers use significantly less oil than deep fryers, making them a much healthier option. You still get the crispy texture you love, but without the excess fat.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer can help ensure more even cooking and better results, especially for foods like chicken and fries.
How do I clean my air fryer?
Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe. For handwashing, use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scouring pads, which can damage the non-stick coating.