Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook by offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. This list of 26 genius air fryer hacks will elevate your cooking game and help you get the most out of your air fryer. From creating crispy snacks to perfecting meal prep, these tips and tricks are designed to enhance your culinary skills and bring convenience to your kitchen. Dive into this guide and discover how versatile your air fryer truly is.
1. Crispy Bacon

Who doesn’t love crispy bacon? Using an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunch without the mess of stovetop cooking. Simply lay the strips in a single layer and air fry at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes. Experiment with the cooking time to get your desired level of crispiness.
The result is a delicious, evenly cooked bacon that’s not too greasy. Try this method, and you’ll never go back to traditional cooking.
2. Reheat Leftovers

Reheating leftovers can be tricky, but with an air fryer, it becomes a breeze. Place your leftovers into the basket and set the temperature to 350°F. Heat for a few minutes, and you’ll have food that’s crisp and fresh.
This hack works wonders for pizza, fries, and even roasted vegetables. The air fryer revives the texture without drying out the food. Next time, give your leftovers a new life.
3. Homemade Chips

Homemade chips are easy and delicious when made in an air fryer. Slice potatoes thinly, toss with a bit of oil, and season as desired. Air fry at 375°F for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking.
These chips are healthier than store-bought versions, with no preservatives or excess oil. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like paprika or garlic powder.
4. Crispy Tofu

If you love tofu, you’ll adore this method. Cut tofu into cubes, marinate in soy sauce, and coat lightly with cornstarch. Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes.
The result is crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for salads or stir-fries. This method ensures a delightful texture that traditional cooking methods often miss. Try it and see how your tofu game changes.
5. Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs in an air fryer are a revelation. Place eggs directly in the basket and cook at 270°F for 15 minutes. After cooking, transfer them to an ice bath to cool.
This method is fuss-free and results in consistently cooked eggs with easy-to-peel shells. Say goodbye to boiling water and guesswork. Enjoy perfect hard-boiled eggs every time without the hassle.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Brussels sprouts are a delightful side dish. Cut the sprouts in half, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes.
The result is a crispy, caramelized exterior with a tender interior. These sprouts are so delicious that even those who dislike Brussels sprouts might reconsider. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest.
7. Roasted Nuts

Roasting nuts in an air fryer is quick and efficient. Toss your choice of nuts with a bit of oil and salt, then air fry at 320°F for 5-10 minutes.
The nuts come out perfectly roasted, enhancing their natural flavors with just the right crunch. This is a great way to make a healthy snack that’s ready in minutes. Try different nut mixes to find your favorite.
8. Make Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese lovers rejoice! Air fryers make this classic sandwich even better. Butter the outside of two slices of bread, add your favorite cheese, and air fry at 370°F for 5 minutes.
The result is a crispy, golden exterior and gooey, melted cheese inside. No flipping required and no mess. Once you try this method, you’ll love the new take on a childhood favorite.
9. Crispy Chicken Wings

Chicken wings cooked in an air fryer are a game-changer. Season the wings with your favorite spices, and air fry at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
They come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfect for game nights or casual dinners, these wings are sure to impress. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for a complete experience.
10. Crispy Fish Fillets

Fish fillets become a crispy delight in an air fryer. Coat your fillets with breadcrumbs and seasonings, then air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
The fish cooks evenly with a crunchy crust, making for a delicious meal. This method is perfect for those who love fried fish but want a healthier option. Serve with a side of tartar sauce for extra flavor.
11. Dehydrate Fruits

Dehydrating fruits in an air fryer is a simple process. Slice your favorite fruits thinly and place them in the fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 130°F and dehydrate for a few hours.
The result is tasty, chewy fruit snacks without added sugars or preservatives. Enjoy these as a healthy treat or add them to your breakfast bowls. Explore different fruits to find your perfect blend.
12. Bake Cookies

Baking cookies in an air fryer is a breeze. Prepare your cookie dough as usual, then place spoonfuls onto parchment paper in the fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
The cookies come out soft with a slightly crispy edge, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This method is fast and convenient, ideal for when you crave homemade cookies without heating the oven.
13. Air Fryer Veggie Chips

Veggie chips are a healthy and colorful snack made easy with an air fryer. Slice your favorite vegetables thinly, season, and air fry at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.
They become crispy and full of flavor, providing a great alternative to regular chips. Try experimenting with different vegetable combinations and seasonings to create your custom mix. Enjoy these guilt-free.
14. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms take on a new life in an air fryer. Fill mushroom caps with cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes.
The mushrooms cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish. This method is quick and ensures a delicious result every time. Give these a try and impress your guests.
15. Toast Nuts and Seeds

Toasting nuts and seeds in an air fryer is a quick way to bring out their flavor. Toss your selection with a touch of oil and salt, then air fry at 300°F for 5-8 minutes.
The result is a fragrant, crunchy mix perfect for snacking or adding to dishes. This method is easy and lets you control the seasoning and ingredients, ensuring a healthier option. Try different combinations for variety.
16. Air Fryer French Toast

French toast in an air fryer is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast. Dip bread slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon, then air fry at 375°F for 6-8 minutes.
The toast cooks evenly with a golden exterior and fluffy inside. It’s a perfect weekend treat that’s easy to make. Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious start to your day.
17. Cook Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a savory delight, easily prepared in an air fryer. Wrap asparagus spears with bacon strips and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
The bacon crisps up perfectly while the asparagus remains tender. This dish is a great appetizer or side, combining flavors that everyone loves. Try this hack for a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
18. Air Fryer Donuts

Air fryer donuts are a healthier way to enjoy this sweet treat. Use pre-made dough or make your own, cut into donut shapes, and air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes.
The donuts come out soft and fluffy, ready to be topped with your favorite glaze or toppings. This method reduces the oil content while still delivering delicious flavor. Perfect for satisfying a donut craving guilt-free.
19. Roast Garlic

Roasting garlic in an air fryer is a quick way to add flavor to dishes. Cut the top off a garlic bulb, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, and air fry at 400°F for 20 minutes.
The garlic becomes soft and caramelized, perfect for spreading on bread or adding to recipes. This method is faster than traditional roasting yet delivers the same delightful results. Enjoy this versatile ingredient with ease.
20. Make Kale Chips

Kale chips are a nutritious snack that’s easy to make in an air fryer. Tear kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, toss with oil and salt, then air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
They become perfectly crispy and can be seasoned to your liking. Enjoy these as a healthy alternative to potato chips, packed with vitamins and flavor. They make a great snack or side dish.
21. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries in an air fryer are a crispy, flavorful treat. Cut sweet potatoes into fries, toss with oil and seasoning, and air fry at 380°F for 15-20 minutes.
They come out golden and crisp, with a tender interior. This method ensures even cooking and reduces oil usage, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
22. Make Zucchini Chips

Zucchini chips are a healthy snack made in an air fryer. Slice zucchini thinly, toss with oil and seasoning, then air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes.
They come out crunchy and full of flavor, providing a great alternative to traditional chips. Easy to customize with different seasonings, these chips are both satisfying and nutritious. Try this hack for a low-calorie snack option.
23. Air Fryer BBQ Ribs

BBQ ribs in an air fryer are a quick and tasty way to enjoy this classic dish. Season the ribs, place them in the air fryer, and cook at 375°F for 25 minutes. Baste with BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
The ribs come out tender and flavorful, with a caramelized glaze. This method is a great way to enjoy ribs without the lengthy cooking time. Perfect for a barbecue craving.
24. Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob becomes a sweet, succulent treat in an air fryer. Husk the corn, season with butter and spices, and air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes.
The corn cooks evenly with a slight char, enhancing its natural sweetness. This method is fast and convenient, perfect for a summer side dish. Try this hack for a delicious take on a classic favorite.
25. Crispy Onion Rings

Onion rings become irresistibly crispy in an air fryer. Dip onion slices in batter, coat with breadcrumbs, and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
They come out golden and crunchy, with a soft onion interior. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, these onion rings offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
26. Cook Frozen Foods

Frozen foods are effortlessly cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Place items directly in the basket and adjust the temperature and time according to package instructions.
They cook evenly with a crispy exterior, making them taste freshly made. This hack is ideal for busy days when you need a quick meal. Try using your air fryer for frozen fries, nuggets, or fish sticks.