8 Air Fryer Recipes You need to try This Holiday Season

Explore the full potential of your air fryer this holiday season with recipes that emphasize flavor, ease, and efficiency. The air fryer’s ability to create crispy, golden dishes without the excess oil makes it an indispensable tool in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing appetizers, sides, or main dishes, these recipes will showcase the versatility and convenience of air frying, providing delightful, textured results that enhance any festive meal.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Begin by halving Brussels sprouts and tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring an even coating. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the sprouts in a single layer, allowing air to circulate freely. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through to promote uniform browning. While they cook, reduce balsamic vinegar with a pinch of sugar over low heat until it reaches a syrupy consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the sprouts just before serving, creating a sharp contrast to the earthy, crisp exterior.

Get the recipe: Balsamic Glazed Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

Pat chicken wings dry and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Place wings in batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until the skin is taut and crispy. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by simmering honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until slightly thickened. Toss the hot wings in the sauce, then return them briefly to the fryer for a caramelized finish. Serve warm, sprinkled with sesame seeds and fresh scallions.

Get the recipe: Honey Garlic Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)

Golden Stuffing Balls

Start with a classic stuffing mix, incorporating sautéed onions, celery, and herbs. Add beaten eggs and broth to bind the mixture. Shape into compact balls, ensuring they hold together. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the stuffing balls in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crunchy on the outside. The air circulation creates a delightful crust, preserving a moist interior. Pair these with your holiday roast, offering a playful twist on traditional stuffing.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Stuffing Balls

Garlic Butter Shrimp Perfection

Marinate large shrimp in a blend of garlic, lemon juice, and melted butter for at least 15 minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Layer the shrimp in the basket without overlapping. Cook for 5-7 minutes until pink and opaque, allowing the garlic and butter to infuse deeply. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. This quick preparation brings a welcome brightness and rich flavor, perfect for complementing holiday spreads.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic Butter

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Delight

Crafting cinnamon sugar donuts in the air fryer provides a light, yet indulgent treat. Begin with a simple dough; use yeast for rise and suppleness. Roll out to about half an inch thickness, cut out donut shapes, and let them rest briefly. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F, then cook the donuts until golden, flipping midway for even baking. After a short cooling period, coat them generously in a mixture of fine sugar and freshly grated cinnamon. The result is a tender interior with a crisp, spiced exterior—perfect with a hot cup of coffee.

Get the recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Donuts

Parmesan-Crusted Salmon Sensation

For a sophisticated yet effortless dish, consider parmesan-crusted salmon. Begin by seasoning salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness. Press a blend of grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and a bit of dried thyme onto the fillets, ensuring even coverage. Cook in the air fryer at 390°F until the crust is golden and the salmon is just opaque in the center. The cheese provides a savory, nutty crust that complements the buttery texture of the salmon, making this dish both elegant and satisfying.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Salmon

Sweet Potato Cubes with Smoked Paprika

Transform sweet potatoes into a flavorful side by air frying to achieve a caramelized exterior and soft interior. Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes for consistent cooking. Toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Air fry at 400°F, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even roasting. The result is a sweet and smoky side dish with a hint of earthiness, perfect for balancing heavier holiday meals, paired well with a squeeze of lime before serving.

Get the recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes

To create luscious chocolate lava cakes, begin by melting high-quality dark chocolate with butter until smooth. Mix in sugar, flour, and eggs until just combined. Grease individual ramekins thoroughly, then pour in the batter, leaving space for rise. Cook in the air fryer at 370°F until the edges are set but the center remains soft. Let it rest briefly before inverting onto a plate. When cut, the cakes release a rich, molten center—a sublime dessert that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Molten Lava Cakes