23 Air Fryer Recipes That Actually Make Weeknights Easier

This post may contain affiliate links. Thanks for supporting small business.

Cooler nights, longer days, and full calendars—October’s the time when dinner needs to be fast, comforting, and a little fun. These 23 air fryer recipes check every box: think crispy chicken legs, buffalo turkey meatballs, and cozy baked potatoes you’ll crave again and again. Whether you’re juggling football practice or just avoiding another drive-thru run, these fall-ready ideas will have dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less. Trust me, your weeknights just got a whole lot easier (and tastier).

Juicy Bone-In Pork Chops in the Air Fryer

Juicy and well-seasoned, these Air Fryer Pork Chops (bone-in) come together in under 20 minutes using pantry staples. With a smoky-sweet seasoning and crisp exterior, they’re a no-fuss comfort food option for busy nights or relaxed dinners.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Bone-In Pork Chops in the Air Fryer

Crispy Southern Air Fryer Green Tomatoes

These Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes bring a tangy Southern crunch to your table in just 20 minutes, combining classic flavors with a lighter twist. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight meals, or casual get-togethers, they stay crispy and golden—ideal for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Southern Air Fryer Green Tomatoes

Buffalo-Style Turkey Meatballs in the Air Fryer

A plate of glazed meatballs garnished with chopped herbs, with a small dish of sauce in the background. The sauce is drizzled on the white plate, enhancing the presentation. — Buffalo-Style Turkey Meatballs in the Air Fryer. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

These Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are juicy, packed with flavor, and coated in a zesty buffalo-ranch sauce. Ideal for game days or quick appetizers, they’re a crowd-pleasing bite with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo-Style Turkey Meatballs in the Air Fryer

Fluffy and Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

This Air Fryer Baked Potatoes recipe delivers crispy, salty skin and a light, fluffy interior every time. A simple way to perfect a classic side dish.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy and Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos

Homemade Chicken Taquitos in the air fryer turn out crispy, warm, and totally snack-worthy. Great for freezing ahead or making in batches, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or whenever cravings strike.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Frozen Taquitos

Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Leg Recipe is a family-friendly favorite that’s ready in minutes. With just 2 minutes of prep time, it’s a fast, no-mess solution for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Quick and Flaky Air Fryer Biscuits

Air Fryer Biscuits come out golden, flaky, and ready in minutes. An effortless option when you need warm, fresh bread fast.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Flaky Air Fryer Biscuits

Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets in the Air Fryer

These Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets are crispy outside, tender inside, and entirely plant-based. They’re a great snack or meat-free main that even non-vegans will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Tofu Nuggets in the Air Fryer

Sweet and Sour Chicken Made in the Air Fryer

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken delivers a satisfying contrast of tangy sauce and crispy texture. Each bite is packed with bold, crave-worthy flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken Made in the Air Fryer

Light and Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan is a lighter take on the Italian favorite, offering all the crisp and flavor without the extra oil. Perfect for a guilt-free comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Light and Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots in the Air Fryer

These Air Fryer Roasted Carrots turn out sweet, crispy, and caramelized, making them a healthy, flavorful addition to any meal. The simple olive oil and herb combo enhances every bite.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots in the Air Fryer

Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers (Air Fryer)

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños filled with melted cheese are a spicy, cheesy appetizer ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for parties or game days.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers (Air Fryer)

BBQ Chicken in 15 Minutes with the Air Fryer

This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast gives you all the saucy, smoky flavor of grilled BBQ in a fraction of the time. Juicy and charred to perfection.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken in 15 Minutes with the Air Fryer

Thick-Cut Pork Chops Cooked in the Air Fryer

Air Fryer Thick Pork Chops come out juicy, tender, and full of flavor. A foolproof recipe for perfectly cooked chops every time.
Get the Recipe: Thick-Cut Pork Chops Cooked in the Air Fryer

Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket (Air Fryer)

Air Fryer Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate finger food—flaky, spicy, cheesy, and wrapped in bratwurst. Ideal for easy apps on game day.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket (Air Fryer)

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings from Frozen

You can cook Chicken Wings straight from frozen in your air fryer and still get crispy, delicious results. Serve with dips and veggies for the perfect party snack.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings from Frozen

Tender and Juicy Air Fryer Short Ribs

These Air Fryer Short Ribs are unbelievably juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender. It’s a simple way to enjoy bold, meaty flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Tender and Juicy Air Fryer Short Ribs

BBQ Pork Sweet Potato Skins in the Air Fryer

Sweet Potato Skins made in the air fryer offer a healthier twist on the classic, filled with BBQ pork for a smoky-sweet bite that’s perfect for snacking.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pork Sweet Potato Skins in the Air Fryer

Classic Spicy Buffalo Wings in the Air Fryer

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings are simple, spicy, and made for sharing. A quick, crispy favorite for any game day or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Classic Spicy Buffalo Wings in the Air Fryer

Easy Gluten-Free Ham in the Air Fryer

This Gluten-Free Air Fryer Ham recipe is a holiday lifesaver—simple to prep and packed with flavor, it’s a stress-free way to feed the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gluten-Free Ham in the Air Fryer

Quick and Juicy Skirt Steak in the Air Fryer

Air frying skirt steak is a fast and convenient method that delivers tender, juicy results without the need for a grill. Perfect for busy nights, this approach keeps things simple while still locking in bold, beefy flavor.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Juicy Skirt Steak in the Air Fryer

Easy Air Fryer Japanese Sweet Potatoes

With minimal effort and ingredients, Air Fryer Japanese Sweet Potato makes a flavorful, wholesome side dish that’s naturally sweet and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Japanese Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Cream Sauce

This dish showcases crispy air-fried shrimp paired with a bold, creamy, and spicy sauce for a flavorful kick. It’s a fast, satisfying meal that highlights the convenience and crisping power of the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Cream Sauce

Loved these recipes? TAP TO FOLLOW Intentional Hospitality for daily recipes and easy hosting ideas.

26 Recipes That Start With A Box Of Macaroni

A large bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad, featuring corn, red kidney beans, chopped peppers, and herbs. A lime wedge and wooden spice bowls are in the background, with another bowl of salad slightly out of focus. — Mexican Macaroni Salad Image Credit: Intentional Hospitality

When the days get shorter and the game-day snacks get cheesier, there’s nothing cozier than a box of macaroni turned into comfort food magic. From creamy baked casseroles to old-school macaroni salads, these easy boxed mac recipes are perfect for fall dinners, football tailgates, or busy back-to-school nights.

Get All The Recipes: 26 Recipes That Start With A Box Of Macaroni

Follow Me