27 Best Air Fryer Appetizers

When it comes to delicious and convenient party snacks, the air fryer is an unsung hero. Whether you’re in the mood for classic chicken nuggets or crispy tater tots, having a go-to list of best air fryer appetizers can be a lifesaver. Not only do these recipes offer a tasty way to enjoy your favorite flavors with minimal oil, but they also deliver on speed.

Imagine being able to whip up a batch of pizza rolls in no time – the perfect solution for a busy host or anyone looking to reduce their cook time. Our list of top air fryer appetizers is designed to inspire both party-goers and everyday meal enthusiasts alike, providing a wealth of ideas for when you need something quick, easy, and mouthwateringly good.

Bacon

Bacon

When it comes to appetizers, crispy bacon always takes center stage. Its irresistible allure means that guests expect nothing less than perfectly cooked air fryer bacon at every gathering. Failing to deliver can lead to disappointment and puzzled expressions. On the plus side, achieving that coveted crunchiness is possible with an air fryer – albeit at the cost of a slightly messy basket.

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Air fryer pasta chips may sound like an unusual combination, but it’s exactly what it claims to be: boiled pasta transformed into crispy, savory goodness through the magic of air frying. The process involves boiling the pasta, then air-frying it until it reaches a satisfying crunch. To elevate the flavor, you season the air-fried pasta with your preferred spices and herbs.

The real fun begins when you dip these flavorful chips into a tangy marinara sauce of your choice – spaghetti sauce being a popular favorite. While any type of pasta can be used, bowtie pasta is an excellent option due to its unique shape, which allows for easy dipping on one side while keeping the other side crisp and untouched. The possibilities are endless, making air fryer pasta chips a delightful twist on traditional finger foods.

Air Fryer Salmon Cakes

Air Fryer Salmon Cakes

Salmon cakes offer a surprisingly impressive appetizer option, despite requiring a bit of upfront effort. With 30 minutes of prep time, you can transform them into a show-stopping starter that’s sure to wow your guests. The key is to allow the patties some ‘chill time’ in the fridge before cooking, which not only enhances their flavor but also enables advance preparation. This means you can prepare the cakes ahead of schedule and then simply fire up the air fryer when you’re ready to serve them.

Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts

Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts

Air fryers have revolutionized cooking, making it easier and more convenient than ever before. One such example is preparing an artichoke, which was previously a laborious task involving a significant amount of mess and time. With an air fryer, you can now achieve the same result with minimal fuss and effort. To further simplify the process, I recommend starting with canned artichoke hearts in water.

This way, you won’t have to bother with cutting up a whole artichoke heart from scratch, as others have already done the bulk of the work for you. As an added bonus, pairing these crunchy artichoke appetizers with a tangy lemon aioli sauce will elevate your snacking experience to new heights.

Smashed Red Potatoes

Smashed Red Potatoes

The smashed red potatoes have become a staple in our conversations – and for good reason! They’re one of those addictive air fryer recipes that we can’t get enough of. The memory of their crispy, flavorful goodness often sparks impromptu discussions around the dinner table: ‘Hey, remember those amazing smashed red potatoes?’ It’s not hard to see why they’ve become a favorite – they’re essentially baked potatoes that are then smashed and crisped up in the air fryer to perfection.

And let’s be real, there’s no better way to enjoy them than with a side of rich, tangy sauce (though we won’t judge if you prefer to go sans sauce too)!

Air Fryer Ravioli

Air Fryer Ravioli

When it comes to Italian-inspired appetizers, crunchy bread ravioli is often a standout favorite. The combination of tender pasta and crispy exterior is undeniably alluring. Fortunately, this addictive treat is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. With just a few simple ingredients – including pre-made ravioli, an egg, breadcrumbs, and some seasoning – you can create a delectable air fryer appetizer that’s sure to please.

The process begins with cooking the ravioli as you would normally, by boiling it until al dente. Next, give the cooked pasta a crispy makeover by breading it and then frying it to perfection in the air fryer. But the fun doesn’t stop there – the real excitement lies in deciding on your dipping sauce of choice. Will you play it safe with a classic marinara, or will you get adventurous and try something new like a creamy cheese or garlicky delight? The possibilities are endless!

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Crispy potato wedges – a crowd-pleaser! They’re easy to grab and dip, and I’m particularly fond of pairing them with a tangy ketchup. However, achieving that perfect combination is all about the seasoning and texture. For me, it’s crucial to use herbs and spices that add depth and complexity to the dish, rather than bland flavors. Additionally, the ideal potato wedge should have a satisfying crunch on the outside and a fluffy interior.

Thankfully, cooking them in an air fryer can help achieve this perfect balance of textures, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Air Fryer Shrimp

Air Fryer Shrimp

Shrimp make an excellent starting point for any meal, and their tail serves as the perfect utensil for dipping in your favorite sauces. This recipe offers a bold Southwest twist, requiring only 10 minutes of cooking time thanks to the air fryer’s efficiency. To ensure success, it’s crucial to start with thawed and deveined shrimp – a minor inconvenience for the benefits they bring. Simply purchase them pre-prepared or frozen, as I do, to simplify the process.

With this recipe, plan ahead by allowing your shrimp sufficient time to defrost. Once thawed, you can customize the seasoning to suit your taste buds, opting for a classic Southwestern flair or getting creative with chili lime or Tajin-inspired flavors. The possibilities are endless, and the result is a deliciously cooked air-fried shrimp that’s sure to impress.

Air Fryer Carrot Fries

Air Fryer Carrot Fries

I was oblivious to the fact that people make fries out of carrots for years. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon this unconventional method that my skepticism turned into curiosity, leading me to experiment with it myself. The result? A game-changing snack that has won over my taste buds! One of the main draws is the affordability and vibrant color palette that carrots bring to the table – they make a stunning appetizer option.

If you’re in the market for a fun and tasty air fryer treat, I highly recommend giving carrot fries a try. The best part? You can easily customize them to suit your flavor preferences, whether you lean towards savory or sweet.

Jalapeno Poppers

Jalapeno Poppers

Jalapeno poppers are a delightful treat that combines the spiciness of jalapeños with the creaminess of cheese, smokiness of bacon, and crunch of fried goodness. While they’re designed to be devoured in one bite, there’s no need to rush – you can take small bites if you prefer. What’s remarkable about these addictive appetizers is that despite their jalapeño filling, they surprisingly don’t pack too much heat. This makes them an excellent choice for a crowd-pleasing snack. The best part?

You can prepare them ahead of time and then effortlessly cook them in batches using your air fryer, ensuring a steady supply of warm, cheesy goodness throughout the party.

Pizza Rolls

Pizza Rolls

While many people may not think of pizza rolls as a typical party food, we believe they’re a great option. Not only are they an easy and convenient snack to grab and go, but they can also be elevated by cooking them in an air fryer for a crispy exterior and gooey interior. Whether you choose to make homemade pizza rolls or opt for the convenience of frozen ones, the key is to experiment with different toppings and seasonings to create unique flavor profiles.

And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to get creative with their snacks?

Air Fryer Potato Chips

Air Fryer Potato Chips

Indulging in crispy, flavorful potato chips has never been more appealing than with a simple and rewarding DIY approach. Ditching store-bought bags for homemade options is a game-changer. Here at our home, we’ve fallen head over heels for the delightful taste of freshly baked potato chips, often paired with a rich and creamy homemade ranch dip. The best part? These addictive treats can be enjoyed straight from the air fryer or made in advance to satisfy snack cravings whenever the mood strikes.

Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Chicken Wings

There’s something about indulging in succulent chicken wings smothered in creamy blue cheese dip that never fails to get my party started. It’s an absolute favorite of mine! In fact, I’m excited to share with you a game-changing recipe for hot honey butter chicken wings that’s sure to elevate your appetizer game. The twist? This mouth-watering treat can be prepared in just 20 minutes using the air fryer – talk about a time-saver!

The real magic happens when you combine rich butter, spicy hot sauce, drizzled with sweet honey and a pinch of salt. Feeling like a wimp? No worries, just keep the heat level to your liking. On the other hand, if you’re all about bringing the fire, go ahead and load up on that hot sauce! The choice is ultimately yours. So, what are you waiting for? Give this crispy air fryer chicken wings recipe a try and experience the thrill of a party in every bite.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

The allure of wrapping ingredients in bacon is undeniable, and asparagus is no exception. When prepared in the air fryer, this technique yields a delightful char that elevates the dish to new heights. The resulting asparagus, with its crispy exterior and tender interior, can easily be mistaken for an appetizer rather than a side dish. This unexpected twist transforms what’s typically considered a supporting player into a star of the show.

It’s little wonder why this air-fried asparagus wrapped in bacon has earned its place on many a must-make list.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussel Sprouts

Air Fryer Bang Bang Brussel Sprouts

Bang Bang sauce is a delectable blend of sweet and spicy, creamy flavors. When paired with crispy fried Brussels sprouts coated in a light layer of panko breadcrumbs and air-fried to perfection, it’s a match made in heaven. This unique appetizer is an excellent way to disguise the veggie factor while still delivering a wealth of flavor.

It’s an ideal choice for game day gatherings, and even smaller air fryer baskets can accommodate these tasty treats – just be prepared to cook them in batches if necessary.

Air Fryer Onion Rings

Air Fryer Onion Rings

While many people enjoy the crispy texture of onions rings, I’ve often been deterred from making them at home due to my aversion to deep-frying. The sudden release of hot oil can be intimidating, and the prospect of using excessive amounts of grease was enough to keep me from attempting to make these tasty treats.

However, with the advent of air fryers, I’m now empowered to create a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including perfectly cooked onion rings that are golden brown and bursting with flavor – all while minimizing my reliance on oil.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites

While cauliflower may not be everyone’s go-to ingredient, this appetizer is sure to win over even the most skeptical palates. The bite-sized florets are transformed into crispy, flavorful morsels through a combination of Italian seasoning, butter, Parmesan cheese, and panko coating. What really takes these tasty tidbits to the next level, however, is a rich and savory dipping sauce.

Not only do they add an extra layer of flavor, but they also provide a fun and interactive way to enjoy your snack – simply dip and savor!

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet Potato Fries

With just three ingredients, our sweet potato air fryer recipe is a breeze to make. And the best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite seasonings or toppings. If you’ve got leftover sweet potatoes lingering in your pantry, this is an excellent way to repurpose them and whip up a quick snack. The air fryer’s unique cooking method yields fries that are significantly crisper than their traditional counterparts.

Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just need a tasty treat, these vibrant sweet potato fries are sure to be a hit. They offer a fun twist on classic French fries, with their bright color and irresistible crunch.

Air Fryer Avocado Fries

Air Fryer Avocado Fries

For many, the idea of fried avocados may evoke the thrill of a state fair or a trendy gourmet experience. This is because taking the creamy richness of avocados and elevating it to a crispy, indulgent snack can be a surprisingly delightful combination. The velvety texture of ripe avocados is already a treat, making them an excellent candidate for transformation into a savory finger food.

When prepared correctly, avocado fries are incredibly moreish, begging to be paired with a tangy accompaniment like garlic aioli dipping sauce.

Bacon Wrapped Pineapple

Bacon Wrapped Pineapple

The air fryer’s versatility knows no bounds, and this indulgent appetizer is a perfect example. Imagine tender pineapple chunks infused with the richness of brown sugar and a subtle kick from pepper, all wrapped in crispy bacon. The combination is nothing short of genius! It’s little wonder that toothpicks have finally found their calling – as the unsung heroes of party gatherings, tasked with keeping these delectable morsels in check.

Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

Elevate your appetizer game with this delectable egg roll stuffed with ground beef, dill relish, and cheese. The convenience of readily available egg roll wrappers in most grocery stores makes it easy to recreate such treats at home. For a crispy and satisfying air fryer egg rolls experience, look no further than this recipe. To take it up a notch, serve with a selection of savory dips like spicy ketchup, brown mustard, or ranch dressing.

And if I had my say, queso would be the perfect accompaniment to this delightful treat.

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

While classic little smokies are always a hit at Super Bowl parties, elevating them with crispy bacon and a fry adds a new level of excitement to this timeless appetizer. One of the best things about these bite-sized treats is their ability to be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your party while they cook up golden brown just in time for kickoff.

The sweet and sticky combination of little smokies and bacon, enhanced by the rich flavor of brown sugar, makes for a truly irresistible snack.

Sweet Chili Meatballs

Sweet Chili Meatballs

These sweet chili chicken meatballs, infused with the subtle tang of Panko and a pinch of familiar spices, strike a masterful balance between succulent sweetness and tantalizing heat. Whether served as an addictive appetizer at a gathering or as a satisfying precursor to dinner, their flavors are sure to delight. And let’s be honest – there’s something undeniably charming about enjoying them on toothpicks, allowing for the perfect dip into a spicy sauce that amplifies the overall experience.

Apple Cranberry Brie Bites

Apple Cranberry Brie Bites

I’m a self-proclaimed puff pastry aficionado. The flaky, buttery goodness is a culinary weakness I just can’t resist. When I stumbled upon a recipe that didn’t require a lengthy ingredient list, my excitement grew. And to make matters even better, it was an air fryer appetizer that could be whipped up in no time. The combination of brie, crisp apples, tangy cranberry sauce, fragrant rosemary, and a single egg, all wrapped up in the magic of puff pastry, had my taste buds doing the happy dance.

Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella Sticks

While many people might assume that making homemade air fryer mozzarella sticks requires great effort, the truth is that it’s surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. The thrill of biting into hot, stringy breaded cheese is undeniable. I’ve experienced this delight firsthand at parties, where someone will pause mid-conversation to take a bite, only to have the cheese strings out and elicit laughter from everyone present.

When it comes to preparing mozzarella sticks, you’re not limited to just one option. You can either purchase a block of Mozzarella cheese and cut it into desired shapes or opt for string cheese that’s already been prepared for coating. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to get creative with your presentation. And the best part? You don’t need a deep fryer to achieve crispy results – an air fryer will do just fine!

Air Fryer Peaches

The prospect of roasted peaches smothered in a rich mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter is already mouthwatering. However, we take it to the next level by drizzling the fruits with pure honey and crowning them with fluffy whipped cream. This sweet and indulgent appetizer is sure to impress. And if you’re wondering how to bring this culinary magic to life, the game-changer is that you can prepare it in an air fryer.

Imagine the look on your guests’ faces when you present them with a dish that seems too good to be true – the perfect combination of convenience and show-stopping presentation.

Air Fryer Cheese Curds

Air Fryer Cheese Curds

While some may dismiss cheese curds as a mere snack, those in the know can attest to their irresistible charm. In our household, they’re a staple on our lunch plates, and for good reason: they’re a delicious and satisfying treat. But when you take it to the next level by battering them and frying them in an air fryer, something truly magical happens. The result is a transformed delight that’s perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.

And let’s not forget the essential accompaniment: homemade ranch dip. It’s the perfect pairing to elevate these crispy, cheesy morsels to a whole new level of indulgence.

The bottom line

We’ve recently become huge fans of our collection of 27 mouth-watering air fryer appetizers, which we’re confident will quickly become staples in your household. The best part? These easy-to-make treats are incredibly addictive and sure to be devoured time and again. We’d love to hear from you – which ones have you tried and enjoyed the most? Do you have any other favorite air fryer appetizer recipes that we should know about?

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