Sometimes, after a long day, you just need quick and easy recipes to serve up delicious meals at the table. That’s where your air fryer becomes the perfect kitchen companion. You can whip up tasty dishes fast, pop them into the air fryer, and enjoy crispy results without the need for excessive oil or fat.
Whether you’re already loving your air fryer or thinking about getting one, feel free to explore our other recipe collections, guides, and tips.
Is a Convection Oven the Same As An Air Fryer?
An air fryer is like a turbocharged, compact convection oven. Both use the same core cooking method — hot air circulation — but the air fryer is faster, more efficient for small batches, and excels at crispiness. A convection oven is better for cooking larger meals or multitasking dishes at once.
If you have a convection oven, you can definitely mimic many air fryer recipes — just adjust cooking time and temperature accordingly. But if you're looking for that extra-crispy finish in a shorter time, an air fryer might be the way to go! This air circulation is what gives food a crisp, fried-like texture — especially when cooking things like French fries, chicken wings, or roasted vegetables.
Related: Air Fryer vs Convection Oven
Air fryers are convenient, efficient, and easy to use — but if you're new to them, it's natural to have a few questions about what’s safe (and smart) to use inside.
Can You Put Auminum Foil in An Air Fryer?
Yes, you can — with caution.
Using aluminum foil in an air fryer is generally safe, but there are a few important guidelines to follow:
- Use it only in the basket (not covering the entire bottom where airflow is key).
- Never place foil loosely — it can blow around and touch the heating element, causing sparks or even a fire.
- Avoid blocking air vents — the air fryer needs circulation to cook food evenly.
- Don't use foil with acidic foods (like tomatoes or citrus), as it can break down the foil and affect taste.
Tip: Parchment paper made for air fryers is often a safer, more effective alternative — especially with holes for airflow!
Can You Put Glass in An Air Fryer?
Yes — if it’s the right type of glass.
You can safely use oven-safe glass containers, such as Pyrex, in an air fryer. However, always check that the glass is labeled as heat-resistant or oven-safe before using.
- Use thick, tempered glass dishes that can handle high temperatures.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes (don’t put cold glass straight into a hot air fryer).
- Never use delicate glassware, mugs, or decorative bowls — they may shatter under high heat.
Recipes for Air Fryer
Air Fryer Meats: Juicy, Crispy & Satisfying
From wings to steaks, the air fryer handles meat with ease. It seals in moisture while achieving that irresistible golden crust, often without the need for breading or excessive oil.
Top Meat Recipes to Try:
Air Fryer Chicken Wings
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Air Fryer Pizza
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Air Fryer Salmon
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Air Fryer Desserts: Sweet Treats Without the Guilt
Think air fryers are only for fries and chicken wings? Think again. Your air fryer can also be a powerful dessert-making tool, creating crispy, caramelized treats with less oil and less fuss.
Air Fryer Nutella Pinwheel
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Air Fryer Super Soft Muffins
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Air Fryer Vegetables: Crispy, Colorful & Full of Flavor
Another one of the best things about the air fryer is how it transforms vegetables. Whether you’re roasting, crisping, or caramelizing, vegetables come out beautifully every time.
Must-Try Veggie Recipes:
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the edges and tender inside, especially delicious with balsamic glaze.
Air Fryer Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted in minutes — the perfect side dish.
Air Fryer Aubergine (Eggplant): Tender and golden, perfect with a sprinkle of Parmesan or tossed in a miso glaze.
Air Fryer Eggplant
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Air Fryer Asparagus
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Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts |
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If you love potatoes and want to make some tasty snacks, air fryer fries and air fryer potatoes are perfect for you!
Air Fryer Fries | Air Fryer Potatoes |
Final Thoughts
Whether you're cooking up a savory dinner, preparing healthy sides, or indulging in a sweet snack, the air fryer has something for everyone. With faster cooking times, less oil, and easy cleanup, it’s no wonder this appliance is a kitchen must-have.
So go ahead — get creative and start air frying your way to crispy, delicious success!
You may be interested in: Air Fryer Vs. Deep Fryer