10 Genius Ways to Use Your Air Fryer for More Than Just Cooking Fries

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Introduction:

The air fryer has become a must-have kitchen gadget, thanks to its ability to cook crispy, delicious fries with minimal oil. But did you know this versatile appliance can do so much more than just frying potatoes? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these 10 genius air fryer hacks will open up a world of possibilities for your meals. Plus, I’ll include product recommendations to help you get the most out of your air fryer experience.

1. Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro

Forget soggy microwaved pizza! An air fryer is perfect for reheating leftovers while keeping them crispy and fresh. Whether it’s fried chicken, pizza, or even pastries, your air fryer will restore that “just-cooked” texture.

How to do it: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 3–5 minutes.

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Product to Try:

COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1

Air Fryer Reusable Silicone Liners — These liners make cleanup easy and keep your food from sticking.

2. Making Crispy Vegetables

Say goodbye to boring steamed veggies! Air fryers can turn broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini into crispy, roasted perfection.

How to do it: Toss your vegetables in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Pro Tip: Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Product to Try:

DEIME Air Fryer 6.2 QT Oilless Oven

Vegetable Chopper & Slicer — Quickly prep your veggies for consistent cooking.

3. Baking Desserts

Yes, you can bake in an air fryer! From cookies to molten lava cakes, your air fryer can double as a mini oven for small-batch dessert cravings.

How to do it: Use oven-safe ramekins or silicone molds, and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on the dessert.

Pro Tip: Check the dessert frequently to avoid overcooking.

Product to Try:

Nuwave Brio 8-Qt Air Fryer

Silicone Baking Cups —

Perfect for making cupcakes, muffins, or mini cakes in your air fryer.

4. Cooking Hard-Boiled Eggs

Skip the hassle of boiling water. Your air fryer can cook hard-boiled eggs quickly and effortlessly.

How to do it: Place eggs in the basket and air fry at 250°F (120°C) for 15–17 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath immediately after.

Pro Tip: Adjust the time for softer or harder yolks.

Product to Try:

Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer

Egg Holder for Air Fryers — Keep your eggs secure while cooking.

5. Roasting Nuts and Seeds

Want a quick and healthy snack? Use your air fryer to roast nuts or seeds evenly without burning them.

How to do it: Toss nuts or seeds with a little oil and seasoning, then air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 5–8 minutes. Shake the basket every 2 minutes.

Pro Tip: Store the roasted nuts in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Product to Try:

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity

Mixed Nut Variety Pack — Fresh and flavorful nuts perfect for roasting.

6. Making Crispy Bacon Without the Mess

Cooking bacon on the stovetop can be messy, but an air fryer keeps things clean while giving you perfectly crispy strips.

How to do it: Lay bacon strips in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper to catch grease for easier cleanup.

Product to Try:

Cuisinart Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven

Non-Stick Air Fryer Parchment Paper — Keeps your air fryer grease-free.

7. Toasting Bread and Bagels

No toaster? No problem! Use your air fryer to toast bread, bagels, or even English muffins.

How to do it: Place the bread or bagels in the basket and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of cheese for a cheesy twist.

Product to Try:

COSORI 11-in-1 Air Fryer Oven

Air Fryer Grilling Rack — Keeps bread elevated for even toasting.

8. Cooking Homemade Chips

Swap out store-bought chips for healthier, homemade versions of potato, sweet potato, or kale chips.

How to do it: Slice thinly, toss with a little oil and seasoning, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through.

Pro Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform chip thickness.

Product to Try:

Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air

Mandoline Slicer — Achieve perfectly thin slices every time.

9. Grilling Meat and Seafood

No grill? The air fryer can act as a mini grill for small cuts of meat or seafood.

How to do it: Marinate your meat or seafood, then air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness.

Pro Tip: Flip halfway through for even cooking.

Product to Try:

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

Meat Thermometer — Ensure your proteins are cooked to perfection.

10. Dehydrating Fruits

Turn your air fryer into a dehydrator to make healthy fruit snacks like apple chips, banana chips, or dried mango.

How to do it: Slice fruit thinly, place in a single layer, and air fry at the lowest temperature (usually 150°F or 160°F) for 4–6 hours.

Pro Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.

Product to Try:

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity

Dehydrator Racks for Air Fryers — Maximize space for drying multiple fruit slices.

Conclusion:

Your air fryer is more than just a gadget for cooking fries — it’s a multifunctional tool that can save you time while making your meals healthier and tastier. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, baking desserts, or roasting nuts, these 10 creative ideas will help you unlock the full potential of your air fryer. Ready to try these hacks? Check out some of the recommended products to enhance your air frying experience! Let me know which of these ideas you’re excited to try in the comments below. 😊