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What to Make When You’re Too Tired to Cook → 10 Easy Air Fryer Dinner Ideas

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Air fryer steak is a modern American dish that has gained popularity for its convenience and ability to produce a juicy, flavorful steak with less oil. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the steak evenly while achieving a desirable crispy exterior. This cooking method has become a favorite for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal, making steak accessible for weeknight dinners without the need for a grill or stovetop.

Ingredients

  • steak
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • paprika
  • fresh herbs

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2Pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. 3Rub the steak with olive oil on both sides.
  4. 4Season the steak generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  5. 5Place the steak in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is not overcrowded.
  6. 6Cook the steak for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through.
  7. 7Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
  8. 8If desired, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for a more well-done steak.
  9. 9Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  10. 10Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

steak

Healthier: lean cuts of meat

Cheaper: pork chops

Pork chops can be a more affordable alternative while still providing a satisfying meal.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is often less expensive and has a neutral flavor.

Techniques

seasoningcookingresting

Equipment

air fryermeat thermometercutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Air Fried SteakSteak in Air Fryer

Air fryer chicken has gained popularity in many households for its ability to produce crispy, juicy chicken with less oil than traditional frying methods. The air fryer, a modern kitchen appliance, allows for healthier cooking while maintaining flavor and texture. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, showcasing the versatility of chicken in contemporary cuisine.

Ingredients

  • whole chicken
  • olive oil
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • paprika
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • dried thyme
  • dried rosemary
  • lemon
  • fresh parsley
  • butter
  • chicken broth
  • vegetables for roasting

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
  2. 2Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. 3Rub olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
  4. 4In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
  5. 5Season the chicken generously with the spice mixture, pressing it into the skin.
  6. 6Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon and fresh parsley.
  7. 7Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket.
  8. 8Cook for 30 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken to breast-side up.
  9. 9Continue cooking for an additional 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. 10Baste the chicken with melted butter halfway through the cooking time.
  11. 11Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  12. 12Carve the chicken and serve with roasted vegetables.
  13. 13Drizzle with chicken broth for added moisture if desired.
  14. 14Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.
milk

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
  3. 3Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
  4. 4Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  5. 5Cook the chicken thighs in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  6. 6Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

air fryermixing bowlmeat thermometer

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cooked ground beef
  • 1/2 cup refried beans
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. 2Add taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the beef. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. 3Spread refried beans evenly over two of the tortillas.
  4. 4Layer the cooked beef on top of the refried beans, followed by salsa, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
  5. 5Top with the remaining two tortillas to create a fold-over.
  6. 6Heat a large skillet over medium heat and place the quesadilla in the skillet.
  7. 7Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  8. 8Remove from skillet and let cool for a minute before cutting into wedges.
  9. 9Serve with sour cream on the side.

Equipment

skilletspatulacutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low
veganplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2Wash and chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  3. 3In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
  4. 4Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket.
  5. 5Cook the vegetables in the air fryer for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  6. 6Check for doneness; the vegetables should be tender and slightly crispy.
  7. 7Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Equipment

air fryermixing bowlcutting boardknife

Ingredients

  • 2 frozen chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning blend.
  3. 3Take the frozen chicken breasts and coat them evenly with the seasoning blend.
  4. 4Place the seasoned frozen chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  5. 5Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
  6. 6Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. 7If not fully cooked, continue to air fry in 5-minute increments until done.
  8. 8Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  9. 9Serve with your choice of sides.

Equipment

air fryermixing bowlmeat thermometer
pescatarian

Ingredients

  • 2 frozen steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2While the air fryer is preheating, season the frozen steaks with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  3. 3Once preheated, place the frozen steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  4. 4Cook the steaks for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even cooking.
  5. 5Check the internal temperature of the steaks with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
  6. 6If the steaks are not at the desired doneness, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until they reach the desired temperature.
  7. 7Once cooked, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  8. 8Serve with your choice of sides.

Equipment

air fryermeat thermometer
vegetariangluten-free

Air fryer potatoes have gained popularity in India as a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. This method retains the crispiness while using less oil, making it a favored choice for health-conscious individuals. The dish is versatile and can be seasoned with various spices, reflecting the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine.

Ingredients

  • potatoes
  • olive oil
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • paprika
  • cumin
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  2. 2Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
  3. 3Cut the potatoes into even-sized cubes.
  4. 4In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with olive oil.
  5. 5Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the potatoes.
  6. 6Toss the potatoes until evenly coated with the oil and spices.
  7. 7Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  8. 8Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  9. 9Check for doneness; they should be golden and crispy.
  10. 10Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley.
  11. 11Serve hot as a side dish.

Also Known As

Batata na Airfryer

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
  2. 2Mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  3. 3Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
  4. 4Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  5. 5Lightly brush the patties with olive oil on both sides.
  6. 6Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch.
  7. 7Cook the patties in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach your desired doneness (160°F for medium).
  8. 8Remove the patties from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Equipment

air fryermixing bowlmeasuring spoonsmeasuring cups

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 8 taco shells
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Drain excess fat from the beef and add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. 4Place the taco shells in the air fryer basket, standing them upright if possible.
  5. 5Fill each taco shell with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
  6. 6Air fry the tacos for 5-7 minutes until the shells are crispy and heated through.
  7. 7Remove the tacos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
  8. 8Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
  9. 9Serve with sour cream on the side.

Equipment

air fryerskilletmixing spoonmeasuring spoonscutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low
veganplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-freelow-carbpaleo

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. 2Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then cut them into thin strips to resemble fries.
  3. 3Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry with a towel.
  4. 4In a large bowl, toss the potato strips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
  5. 5Place the seasoned potato strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
  6. 6Cook the fries in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  7. 7Check for desired crispiness; if needed, cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.
  8. 8Once done, remove the fries from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Equipment

air fryercutting boardknifelarge bowltowel

Originating from Italy, pizza has become a beloved dish worldwide, known for its versatility and regional variations. Air fryer pizza offers a modern twist, allowing for a crispy crust with less oil, making it a popular choice for quick meals. Today, pizza is celebrated globally, with countless toppings and styles, from classic Margherita to creative gourmet versions.

Ingredients

  • pizza dough
  • pizza sauce
  • mozzarella cheese
  • pepperoni
  • bell peppers
  • onions
  • mushrooms
  • black olives
  • olive oil
  • basil
  • oregano
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the pizza dough according to package instructions or homemade recipe.
  2. 2Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  3. 3Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to the desired thickness.
  4. 4Spread a layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
  5. 5Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
  6. 6Add desired toppings such as pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and black olives.
  7. 7Drizzle a little olive oil over the toppings for added flavor.
  8. 8Season with basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  9. 9Carefully transfer the pizza to the air fryer basket.
  10. 10Cook in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  11. 11Check for doneness; the cheese should be melted and slightly browned.
  12. 12Remove the pizza from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute before slicing.
  13. 13Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot.

Ingredient Alternatives

mozzarella cheese

Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

Cheaper: cheddar cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while maintaining flavor.

pepperoni

Healthier: turkey pepperoni

Cheaper: salami

Turkey pepperoni is lower in fat and calories.

pizza dough

Healthier: whole wheat pizza dough

Cheaper: store-bought pizza dough

Whole wheat offers more fiber and nutrients.

black olives

Healthier: kalamata olives

Cheaper: green olives

Green olives are often less expensive.

Techniques

rollingspreadingair-frying

Equipment

air fryerrolling pincutting boardpizza cutter
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairy

Also Known As

Fried PizzaPizza Fritta

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