When it comes to feeding kids, I’ve learned that keeping things quick, easy, and a little fun can be a total game-changer. That’s where EASY AIR-FRYER RECIPES come in! My air-fryer has completely transformed the way I cook — it’s healthier, convenient, and turns simple meals into something everyone loves. From crispy snacks and appetizers to hearty main courses and even sweet desserts, this little fryer does it all. It’s so versatile that I can make breakfast, dinner, or even a midday bite with minimal effort. Whether I’m baking brownies, frying chicken tenders, or searing mouthwatering steaks, the results always taste restaurant-quality right from my own kitchen.
Confession Time: Why I Fell in Love with My Air Fryer
After using my air fryer for years, I can honestly say I love it. For a busy family, it’s made meal prep so much easier and quicker — especially when I’m juggling snacks and meals for kids. Even though there are many brand names and expensive air fryers on the market, my Uten 6.5 Litre Air Fryer has been perfect for big family meals and even fits a whole chicken. I often browse the internet for simple, friendly recipes made for kids, not just adult tastes, and I always find new favorites to try. The best part? Air frying helps me serve meals that feel indulgent without the guilt — a true game changer in every sense.
17 Easy Air-Fryer Recipes for Kids
Parenting and mealtimes can be an adventure, especially when little tummies turn up their noses at veggies or anything “too healthy.” The air fryer has completely changed the game for my family. It’s faster, healthier, and even my pickiest eater gets excited when they hear that magical hum. Here are some of our favorite easy air-fryer recipes that are quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious — perfect for kids and busy parents alike!
1. Cookie Pie Heaven
A dream come true for little dessert lovers! This cookie pie combines buttery dough, gooey Nutella, and crunchy toffee bits for the ultimate treat.
Ingredients: Butter, sugar, flour, egg, Nutella, toffee bits
Recipe:
• Prepare the dough and fill it with Nutella.
• Air fry for 12 minutes at 170°C until golden and soft inside.
2. Classic Meat Loaf Minis
Mini meatloaves are perfect for lunch boxes or quick dinners. Juicy, flavorful, and full of comfort, these are kid-approved classics.
Ingredients: Ground beef, egg, saltines, ketchup
Recipe:
• Combine everything from small loaves.
• Air fry for 18 minutes at 180°C until cooked through.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bites
A crispy twist on veggies! These bacon-wrapped asparagus bites are smoky, salty, and surprisingly loved by kids who usually avoid greens.
Ingredients: Asparagus, bacon, pepper
Recipe:
• Wrap asparagus with bacon and season with pepper.
• Air fry for 10 minutes at 200°C until bacon is crisp.
4. Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs
Forget boiling water! The air fryer makes perfectly cooked eggs—great for breakfast or protein-packed snacks.
Ingredients: Eggs
Recipe:
• Place eggs in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry for 15 minutes at 160°C, then cool in water before peeling.
5. Spicy Steak Fajita Wraps
Tender steak strips with colorful bell peppers make a fun and flavorful wrap for dinner. Add mild seasoning for kids who prefer less spice.
Ingredients: Steak, bell peppers, tomato, tortillas
Recipe:
• Slice steak and veggies, toss in oil and spices.
• Air fry for 10 minutes at 190°C, then wrap in warm tortillas.
6. Crunchy Beef Taquitos
Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, these taquitos are a hit for game night or after-school snacks.
Ingredients: Ground beef, breadcrumbs, tortillas, taco seasoning
Recipe:
• Fill tortillas with beef mixture, roll, and secure.
• Air fry for 8 minutes until golden and crunchy.
7. Tropical Coconut Shrimp
Bring a little island magic home! Sweet and crispy, these coconut shrimp taste like vacation food but are super easy to make.
Ingredients: Shrimp, coconut, panko, egg whites, apricot preserves
Recipe:
• Coat shrimp in egg and coconut-panko mix.
• Air fry for 10 minutes at 180°C, serve with apricot sauce.
8. Classic Crispy Bacon
Crispy bacon strips without the greasy mess! Perfect for breakfast or to top sandwiches.
Ingredients: Bacon strips
Recipe:
• Lay bacon flat without overlap.
• Air fry for 8 minutes at 200°C until crisp.
9. French Toast Sticks Fun
Sweet, golden, and easy to dip — kids adore these French toast sticks for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients: Bread, eggs, milk, cinnamon
Recipe:
• Dip bread in egg and milk mixture with cinnamon.
• Air fry for 5 minutes at 190°C, serve with syrup or fruit.
10. Golden French Fries
A crunchy favorite made the healthy way! These fries are crispy outside, soft inside, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients: Potatoes, garlic powder, parsley
Recipe:
• Cut, soak, and season potatoes.
• Air fry for 18 minutes at 200°C, shake halfway for even crisping.
11. Banana Bread Dream
Soft, moist, and full of comfort — this banana bread is a great way to use up ripe bananas and sneak in a little goodness.
Ingredients: Bananas, flour, sugar, butter, pecans
Recipe:
• Mix batter and pour into pan.
• Air fry for 20 minutes at 170°C, let it cool before slicing.
12. Salmon Patty Stacks
Healthy and filling, these salmon patties are rich in protein and omega-3s, making them a wholesome choice for dinner.
Ingredients: Salmon, saltines, egg, Worcestershire sauce
Recipe:
• Mix ingredients, shape into patties.
• Air fry for 8 minutes per side until golden brown.
13. Lemon Garlic Asparagus
A zesty veggie side that even picky eaters enjoy! The lemon-garlic flavor makes these asparagus spears irresistible.
Ingredients: Asparagus, mayo, garlic, lemon, Parmesan
Recipe:
• Toss asparagus with sauce and cheese.
• Air fry for 7 minutes at 190°C until tender and lightly crisp.
14. Turkey Croquette Leftover Magic
Turn leftover turkey into crispy, cheesy croquettes that taste like comfort food heaven.
Ingredients: Turkey, mashed potatoes, cheese, egg, panko
Recipe:
• Mix and form small balls, coat with panko.
• Air fry for 10 minutes at 190°C until golden.
15. Garlic-Rosemary Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Brussels sprouts with garlic and rosemary — a side dish that’s both healthy and deliciously crunchy.
Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, garlic, rosemary, panko
Recipe:
• Toss sprouts in oil, garlic, and herbs.
• Air fry 12 minutes at 200°C until browned and crisp.
16. Classic Fish and Chips Reimagined
A healthier twist on the British favorite! Light, crispy fish and golden potato wedges without deep frying.
Ingredients: Fish fillets, flour, egg, potatoes, Parmesan
Recipe:
• Coat fish in flour and egg, and season potatoes.
• Air fry both together for 15 minutes until crisp and flaky.
17. Melty Grilled Cheese Delight
This grilled cheese sandwich is a gooey, crispy comfort food that never fails to please — especially with bacon and tomato!
Ingredients: Bread, cheese, mayo, tomato, bacon
Recipe:
• Assemble the sandwich with mayo on the outside.
• Air fry for 6 minutes per side until golden and melty.
FAQs
1. What makes air-fryer recipes great for kids?
Air fryers make cooking for kids easier and healthier. They use little to no oil but still create that crispy texture children love. Whether it’s snacks, meals, or even desserts, you can make tasty, nutritious dishes quickly — perfect for busy parents.
2. Are air-fryer recipes really healthier than regular fried food?
Yes! Air frying uses hot air circulation instead of deep oil frying, which means less fat and fewer calories. It keeps food crispy on the outside but tender inside — giving kids that “fried” taste without the grease.
3. Can I make breakfast in the air fryer?
Absolutely! You can prepare quick breakfast recipes like bacon egg cups, French toast sticks, or even banana bread in your air fryer. It’s a fast and fun way to start the day without standing over a stove.
4. What are some kid-friendly air-fryer snacks?
Some favorites include mozzarella sticks, zucchini fries, kale chips, and peanut butter cookies. These are all easy to make, packed with flavor, and great for after-school snacking.
5. Can I cook vegetables in an air fryer for my kids?
Yes! Air fryers are perfect for making crispy vegetables that even picky eaters enjoy. Try zucchini fries, lemon herb cauliflower bites, or garlic-rosemary Brussels sprouts — all flavorful, quick, and healthy.
6. How do I keep food from sticking in the air fryer?
Use a light spray of olive oil or a reusable liner designed for air fryers. Avoid using too much oil or nonstick sprays with additives, as they can damage the basket. Always preheat the fryer for the best texture.
7. Can kids help make these air-fryer recipes?
Definitely! Most of these easy air-fryer recipes are safe and fun for kids to help with. Let them dip veggies, mix batters, or roll dough for cookies and churros — just supervise when handling hot baskets.
8. What’s the best air fryer size for families?
For families with kids, a 6 to 6.5-liter air fryer (like the Uten 6.5 Litre Air Fryer) works perfectly. It’s large enough to cook full family meals like baked potatoes, chicken wings, or even a whole chicken at once.
9. How do I reheat leftovers in the air fryer?
Simply preheat the air fryer to 170–180°C, then heat your leftovers for a few minutes. It makes food crispy again — unlike microwaves that can leave it soggy. Great for fries, wings, or pastries.
10. Are desserts possible in an air fryer?
Yes — and they’re amazing! Try cookie pies, churros, cinnamon doughnuts, or even banana bread. The air fryer gives desserts a perfectly crisp outside while keeping the inside soft and gooey.