The air fryer is no longer just a trend, it is a staple in kitchens around the world. Known for its ability to make food crispy without deep frying, it saves time, cuts calories, and delivers amazing texture. While many people use it for basics like fries or nuggets, this versatile appliance can do much more. From snacks to desserts, your air fryer is capable of whipping up all kinds of unexpected treats. Here are seven delicious things you probably did not know you could make in your air fryer.
1. Toasted Ravioli with a Crunchy Twist
You do not need boiling water to make ravioli taste great. Toasted ravioli in the air fryer gives you that satisfying crunch without any oil splatter. Just take frozen or fresh ravioli, coat them lightly in olive oil, then dip in a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Arrange them in a single layer and air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 to 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. The outside becomes perfectly crisp while the inside stays warm and soft. Serve with marinara sauce for a delicious appetizer or quick dinner.
2. Crispy Air-Fried Chickpeas
Chickpeas are not just for salads or stews. When roasted in an air fryer, they become an addictive snack. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then pat them dry with a towel. Toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or curry spice. Air fry at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket a few times during cooking. They emerge golden and crunchy with a slightly nutty flavor. These are great for healthy snacking, topping soups, or adding texture to salads.
3. Bacon Without the Mess
Forget the greasy pan or the oven cleanup. The air fryer cooks bacon quickly and evenly, and the excess fat drips away into the bottom tray. Lay strips of bacon flat in a single layer in the basket. Set the air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 8 to 10 minutes depending on your preferred crispiness. Thicker cuts may take longer. The result is perfectly crisp bacon with none of the stovetop splatter. It is a cleaner, easier way to enjoy this breakfast classic or add flavor to sandwiches and burgers.
4. Baked Apples for a Cozy Dessert
You do not need an oven to enjoy warm baked apples. Just core the apples and fill the centers with a mixture of oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a small pat of butter. Place them in the air fryer basket and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 18 minutes. The apples turn soft and caramelized while the filling becomes golden and toasty. It is a naturally sweet dessert with warm fall flavors. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of yogurt for an extra treat.
5. Donut Holes from Biscuit Dough
With just one tube of refrigerated biscuit dough, you can make fluffy air-fried donut holes in minutes. Cut the dough into bite-sized pieces and roll them into balls. Place them in the air fryer and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 6 minutes until puffed and golden. Once cooked, brush with melted butter and toss in a cinnamon sugar mix. The texture is light and soft inside with a sugary crisp outside. You can also add jam or chocolate in the center before frying for an extra surprise.
6. Grilled Cheese with Extra Crunch
Grilled cheese sandwiches get an upgrade in the air fryer. Butter the outside of two slices of bread, place cheese in between, and add extras like tomato, bacon, or avocado if you like. Cook the sandwich at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 minutes flipping halfway through. The bread becomes evenly toasted and the cheese melts perfectly. There is no need to watch a pan or deal with uneven browning. It is the easiest way to get that satisfying crunch without any stovetop fuss.
7. Hard-Boiled Eggs Without Water
You can hard-boil eggs in an air fryer without needing a pot of boiling water. Place cold eggs directly in the basket and cook at 270 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 17 minutes. Once finished, place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking and make peeling easier. The result is consistent and smooth every time with no cracked shells or overcooked yolks. This method is great for meal prepping or making a protein-packed snack with minimal cleanup.
Disclaimer: This article was created with AI assistance and edited by a human for accuracy and clarity.