4 Family-Friendly Air Fryer Recipes To Add To Your Weekly Menu

An air fryer is a fantastic boon in the kitchen when it comes to cooking faster and healthier food for the family. Quick and easy meals that cut down on saturated fat compared to store-bought or restaurant versions are welcome at any table. And they make for indulgent mid-week meals or weekend family treats that everyone will enjoy.

Air fryer hacks are easy to find online, but it's worth knowing how your machine works before you start. Use the air fryer buying guide to help choose the best one for you. Read through the instruction manual, place your machine safely away from the wall and other kitchen clutter when in use, and prefer oils with a higher smoke point (like avocado oil) in your cooking. You may also want to invest in a spray bottle for oil, meaning you'll use less overall and make the most of the air fryer's capacity for tasty low-fat cooking.

Here are some of our favourite air fryer recipes that do just that - with healthier versions of classic family favourites made in half the time.

Looking for tasty meals that will satisfy the whole family? We're here to help.

What is the benefit of cooking with an air fryer?

Air frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. This method significantly reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking, making meals healthier without compromising on flavour. Air fryers are also versatile, allowing you to cook a variety of dishes, from appetisers to main courses and even desserts.

Now, let's get started with the recipes!

Succulent Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

Picture succulent, perfectly cooked wings with a crispy, golden exterior, infused with a tantalising blend of garlic, onion, and smoky paprika. The magic of the air fryer takes centre stage in this recipe, promising a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing any of the mouthwatering taste. Get ready to take your wing game to the next level with these air fryer chicken wings - a crowd-pleasing delight that's destined to become a family favourite.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken wings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). This ensures a consistent cooking temperature, resulting in wings that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings: Dive into the cooking process by placing the chicken wings in a large mixing bowl. This step allows for even coating of the wings with the rich flavours to come.
3. Flavourful Coating: Toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that each wing is coated evenly with the seasoning mixture.
4. Air Fryer Basket Arrangement: Lay out the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Proper spacing allows for optimal air circulation, a key factor in achieving that coveted golden-brown crispiness.
5. Crisp to Perfection: Cook the wings in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The result? Golden brown, crispy exteriors that give way to succulent chicken.
6. Serve: As the aroma of perfectly cooked wings fills your kitchen, prepare to serve them hot. Pair chicken wings with a side of crisp celery sticks or coleslaw salad for a refreshing crunch, and don't forget your favourite dipping sauce to take the experience to new heights.

Tip: Consider adding a variety of dipping sauces such as classic buffalo, garlic aioli, or zesty jalapeno sauce to suit different taste preferences.

Embrace a healthier, equally delicious alternative to deep frying with this recipe. Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or a satisfying snack, these wings are a testament to the versatility and convenience of air frying. Get ready to savour every crispy, flavorful bite!

Irresistible Air Fryer Crispy Skin Salmon

Imagine succulent salmon fillets with a perfect crispy exterior, infused with the zesty brightness of lemon, the earthy notes of dill, and a hint of garlic. This recipe not only delivers on taste but is also packed with nutrients, making it a go-to option for those seeking a quick, healthy, and palate-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp dried dill
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Get the air fryer ready by preheating it to 180°C (360°F). This step ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and achieves that coveted crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step helps remove excess moisture, contributing to the crispiness of the skin. Place the fillets on a plate, ready for the flavour infusion.
3. Create the Flavorful Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This aromatic mixture will serve as the perfect marinade, enhancing both the texture and taste of the salmon.
4. Coat the Fillets: Using a brush or your preferred method, generously coat each salmon fillet with the prepared mixture. Ensure that the fillets are thoroughly covered, allowing the flavours to penetrate the salmon.
5. Perfect Placement: Carefully place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are arranged with enough space between them for optimal air circulation, which contributes to the development of the crispy skin.
6. Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the salmon fillets in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the process, as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. The result should be a crispy skin and tender, flaky salmon.
7. Serve: Present your air-fried crispy skin salmon on a bed of quinoa or couscous for a wholesome meal. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges to add a burst of citrusy brightness.

Tip: Consider incorporating a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to complement the richness of the salmon. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs can further enhance the dish.

Indulge in the delight of perfectly cooked salmon with irresistibly crispy skin. Quick, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, it's a meal that will have you reaching for your air fryer time and time again.

Versatile Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

There's something undeniably comforting about a perfectly baked potato - crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Now, imagine achieving that ideal texture without having to wait for the oven to do its magic. Enter the air fryer! This recipe for baked potatoes promises a delightful combination of crispy skins and tender interiors, all while infusing them with a flavourful blend of garlic and onion. It's a hassle-free way to enjoy the classic baked potato experience, and you'll find yourself turning to this recipe time and time again.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, washed and scrubbed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that the potatoes will cook evenly and achieve that desirable crispiness.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Pierce each potato several times with a fork. This step allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing the potatoes from becoming too dense.
3. Flavour Infusion: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This flavourful mixture will not only enhance the taste of the potatoes but also contribute to the crispy exterior.
4. Coat the Potatoes: Using your hands or a brush, evenly rub each potato with the olive oil and spice mixture. Make sure to coat the potatoes thoroughly, ensuring that the flavours penetrate the skin.
5. Air Fryer Placement: Place the prepared potatoes in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are spaced out to allow proper air circulation, contributing to the overall crispiness.
6. Air Frying Magic: Cook the potatoes in the air fryer for 35-40 minutes, or until the skins achieve a beautiful golden crispness, and the insides turn irresistibly tender. Feel free to flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
7. Serve with Style: Serve the baked potatoes hot, each adorned with a dollop of butter or sour cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives, and a generous helping of grated cheese.

With the air fryer, achieving the perfect baked potato has never been easier. This recipe combines simplicity with a burst of flavour, making it a go-to option for busy nights or family dinners. Enjoy the satisfaction of crispy skins and fluffy insides - it's a delightful twist on a classic people pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Moreish Pork and Fennel Air Fryer Sausage Rolls

The combination of savoury pork, aromatic fennel, and flaky puff pastry creates a mouthwatering treat that's perfect for picnics, family gatherings or a cozy evening snack.

Ingredients:

• 500g puff pastry, thawed
• 400g pork mince
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp fennel seeds
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (360°F) to preheat while you prepare the sausage rolls.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pork and fennel sausage meat, fennel seeds, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Sausage Rolls: Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into four equal rectangles. Divide the pork and fennel sausage mixture into four portions and shape them into logs that match the length of the pastry.
4. Roll and Seal: Place a row of the meat mixture onto each pastry rectangle and roll them up, ensuring the edges are sealed. Use a bit of water to help seal the edges if needed.
5. Egg Wash and Fennel Seeds: Brush the tops of the sausage rolls with beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle fennel seeds over the rolls for an extra burst of flavour.
6. Air Fry: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the sausage rolls in the basket, leaving space between each roll. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown, and the pork is cooked through.
7. Serve: Remove the pork and fennel air fryer sausage rolls, and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with a side of tangy tomato chutney or your preferred dipping sauce.

Tip: For an added touch, you can serve these delightful pork and fennel sausage rolls with a side of green salad or pickles. Don't forget the tomato sauce for dipping!

A lunchtime staple in Australian households, sausage rolls are a crowd-pleasing snack that is loved by all ages. Try our gourmet iteration of this famous Aussie favourite, with the added benefit of it being a quick and easy job in the air fryer! Sausage rolls are freezer-friendly, so consider making a batch to reheat for a quick dinner option.

Discover Simple Everyday Cooking with Air Frying

These family-friendly air fryer recipes are not only delicious but also showcase the versatility and efficiency of this modern kitchen appliance. From savoury and crispy chicken wings to succulent salmon, perfectly baked potatoes, and delightful sausage rolls, these recipes are sure to become part of the family recipe rotation. Beyond the convenience and perfectly cooked dishes, these recipes embody a shift towards healthier cooking methods without compromising on taste. The air fryer, with its ability to deliver the crispy textures we crave with significantly less oil, has become a game-changer in the modern kitchen. Find more essential kitchenware and accessories such as chopping boards, strainers, kitchen knives, cutlery, dinnerware and more to elevate your cooking and dining experience at home at Harris Scarfe.

For more delicious air fryer recipes, head over to our hub to discover easy air fryer snack recipes for entertaining.