What to cook in an air fryer
Assistant Copywriter
Florence Head
Make the most of your air fryer
Air fryers have taken the cooking world by storm, but you may be asking yourself what they actually do and how to use one. We've broken down everything you need to know about this handy device and how to decide if it’s right for you. Plus, discover our quick and easy recipes to whip up in a flash, and our top picks from the Foodhall for speedy dishes to cook in the air fryer.
Top air fryer tips
Avoid overcrowding the basket with too much food, as the hot air won’t be able to circulate properly and this may lead to uneven cooking.
It’s also important to turn the food mid-way through cooking, either by shaking the basket or flipping with a spatula – this ensures a crispy result all over.
Too much moisture in the basket can lead to your food coming out soggy. This can come from using too much oil or using too many wet ingredients. For example, try patting raw chicken breasts dry with kitchen roll before cooking to get a result that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
The pros and cons of cooking with an air fryer
Pros: This handy kitchen appliance tends to be more energy efficient than running a large oven. It's quicker, as you generally don’t have to preheat an air fryer, and the cooking time is shorter than in an oven. They’re also very easy to use, so they’re great for beginners and those who may not have access to a full kitchen, like students. An air fryer requires far less oil than a deep-fat fryer so they can be a healthier option, too.
Cons: If counter space is very limited in your kitchen, you may not want to add another appliance into the mix. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may not be able to fit large portions in the basket and have it cook evenly, so it may not be the best option if you’re cooking for large groups of people.
What to cook in an air fryer
Due to their convection heating method, air fryers can cook just about anything.
Frozen foods like chips or chicken nuggets as you can achieve a crisp and crunchy texture. Try a batch of our golden-brown Chunky Chips made with British potatoes or our bite-sized Breaded Chicken Munchies, sourced from M&S Select Farms.
Start your day with some crispy bacon or sausages for breakfast. We love this Dry Cured Smoked Bacon and these Collection Pork Sausages.
Lighter options, like hearty veggies and sides. Try our soy and ginger salmon fillets, or roast broccoli florets, carrots, courgettes, or Brussels sprouts to perfection – just make sure to rotate them for even cooking.
Try crisping up chickpeas or chunks of sourdough to use as a crunchy topping for soup or salad.
Leftovers like pizza or quiches and tarts can be reheated in the air fryer, too.
Cook these in your air fryer
How to make sweet treats in your air fryer
This air fryer classic scone recipe is light, buttery and just the thing with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry jam. Quick to make and at their best when eaten warm, fresh from the air fryer.
Make light and fluffy air fryer iced doughnuts with custard and jam finished with nostalgic pink-and-white feathered icing, they’re paired with Madagascan vanilla custard and sweet raspberry jam for dipping.
You can even make baked goods like our air fryer double chocolate hazelnut brownie. With no pre-heating required, these gooey brownies are ready in just 30 minutes and only require seven ingredients.
Published 22/07/2026
