So good, you’ll want repeats: 13 air fryer appetizer upgrades

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Upgrading appetizers is a breeze with these 13 air fryer recipes, guaranteed to be so enjoyable you’ll be asked for seconds. The air fryer is a kitchen hero, turning simple ingredients into mouth-watering starters with minimal effort. Quick, efficient, and requiring less oil, the air fryer makes it easy to serve up favorites that feel indulgent without the added hassle. Each one comes with easy-to-follow steps, ensuring delicious results that make every gathering or meal more memorable.

Freshly made jalapeño poppers on a plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s nothing like the joy of a perfect mozzarella stick, especially when it’s crispy on the outside and delightfully stretchy on the inside. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks let you enjoy this classic appetizer without the hassle of deep frying, making them a go-to for a quick, cheesy treat. They’re so good, you might not want to share them.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Air Fryer Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Picture the ideal balance of a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful inside, topped with all your favorite fixings. Air Fryer Potato Skins achieve just that, bringing a pub favorite into your home with minimal effort and maximum taste. They’re the perfect canvas for whatever toppings you’re in the mood for, from classic cheese and bacon to more adventurous options.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Skins

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air fried tortilla chips stacked on a plate around a bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine making your own chips at home that are just as crispy and satisfying as the ones from your favorite restaurant. Air Fryer Tortilla Chips are a revelation, offering a homemade snack that’s perfect for salsa, guacamole, or your dip of choice. They’re so easy and delicious, you’ll find any excuse to whip up a batch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, you just need that perfect bite of pizza in a form that’s easy to snack on. Air Fryer Pizza Rolls fill this need brilliantly, coming out of the air fryer crispy on the outside with a hot, savory filling. They’re ideal for those times when only pizza will do, but you want it with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Air fryer zucchini fries on a wooden board.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a snack that’s on the lighter side but still packed with flavor, these are a must-try. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries offer up a tasty way to get your veggies in, with a crispy exterior and tender inside that’s just right for dipping. They’re a great alternative to traditional fries, proving that vegetables can be just as satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Air Fryer Onion Rings

Air Fryer Onion Rings. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Craving that perfect onion ring that’s all crunch and no sogginess? Air Fryer Onion Rings come out perfectly golden and crispy every time, letting you enjoy this classic side without the oiliness of deep frying. They’re so good, you’ll want to make a double batch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Onion Rings

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes on a white plate.
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crispy edges and fluffy center of a well-made smashed potato. Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes take this to the next level, offering up a side dish that’s incredibly easy to make but feels fancy enough for special occasions. They’re a versatile side that goes with anything and everything.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Carrot Fries

Air Fryer Carrot Fries. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you’re looking for a snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying, these will hit the spot. Air Fryer Carrot Fries turn humble carrots into a snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce. They’re a colorful and tasty way to add more veggies to your diet.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries

Air Fryer Tofu Bites

Air Fryer Tofu Bites. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Whether you’re a long-time tofu lover or just looking for a plant-based protein option, these bites are a revelation. Air Fryer Tofu Bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and completely addictive. They’re perfect for tossing in your favorite sauce or enjoying straight from the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Bites

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Freshly made jalapeño poppers on a plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you like your appetizers with a bit of a kick, these jalapeño poppers are just the thing. Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers come out of the air fryer with a crispy breadcrumb exterior and a melty, spicy center that’s irresistible. They’re the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them a hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Air Fryer Buffalo Fries

Buffalo Fries with ranch dressing on top in a casserole dish.
Air Fryer Buffalo Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Take your fry game to the next level with a spicy twist that’s hard to resist. Air Fryer Buffalo Fries are tossed in buffalo sauce post-air frying, giving them a spicy coating that’s bold and flavorful. They’re the ultimate snack for spice lovers and a great side for any meal that could use a little heat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Fries

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges in a bowl.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet potato wedges in the air fryer emerge as the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and crispy. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, with a natural sweetness that’s enhanced by the air frying process. They’re a versatile side that pairs well with just about everything, making them a repeat-worthy recipe in your meal prep arsenal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

A plate of cauliflower wings with dipping sauce and celery.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a veggie dish that eats like a guilty pleasure, these buffalo cauliflower bites are a must-try. Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower offers up all the spicy goodness of buffalo wings but with a veggie twist that’s unexpectedly satisfying. They’re perfect for when you want something a little lighter but still packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

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