Nothing beats that golden crunch straight from the basket. These side dishes are quick, crispy, and always ready to take center stage. Every bite delivers the satisfying snap everyone loves, turning simple meals into memorable ones.
Easy to make and easy to pair, golden and crunchy never goes out of style—especially when it’s fast. These 17 air fryer favorites add perfect texture and flavor to any menu, whether you need a quick snack or a standout side for dinner.
Air Fryer Taquitos Recipe
A golden shell giving way to warm, seasoned filling is the definition of snack perfection. These air fryer taquitos crisp up fast, making them a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Quick, handheld, and reliably crunchy. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Taquitos Recipe
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Crisped edges and tender centers transform humble greens into a crave-worthy side. Even skeptics often reach for seconds when Brussels sprouts come out golden from the air fryer. Fast to make and full of flavor. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Brussels Sprouts Pakora
Bold seasoning and a crunchy coating make these pakoras a standout. Quick to finish and fun to eat, they bring lively texture and a golden finish to any plate. Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Pakora
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Deep caramelization and well-browned edges give these sprouts extra flavor and texture. When crunch matters and time is short, these are a dependable choice—hot, golden, and ready in minutes. Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges
Golden edges, garlic, and Parmesan elevate sweet potatoes into a crisp, savory side. Minimal fuss yields wedges with great bite and plenty of flavor—an easy pairing for many mains. Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet Potato Fries
Dependable, flavorful, and consistently crispy, sweet potato fries are a versatile side that pairs with lunch or dinner. They crisp evenly in the air fryer and are always crowd-pleasers. Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries
Broccoli Tots
Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, broccoli tots are an easy win for kids and adults alike. They fry up quickly and disappear fast from the plate—perfect for busy nights. Get the Recipe: Broccoli Tots
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries (Alexia)
These frozen fries crisp up in minutes and maintain good texture, making them a convenient pantry staple. Fast, golden, and easy to serve with nearly anything. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries (Alexia)
Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Spicy, crunchy, and full of bold flavor, these sprouts pair well with both simple and robust mains. The Kung Pao twist turns a classic side into something with heat and extra texture. Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
Air Fryer Carrots Recipe
Slightly caramelized edges and tender interiors make air fryer carrots a colorful, fast side. They add both crunch and sweetness to the plate with minimal effort. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrots Recipe
Air Fryer Red Cabbage Steaks
Thick slices of red cabbage develop crisp outer layers while keeping structure and deep color. These steaks make a bold, crunchy vegetable option that’s quick to prepare. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Red Cabbage Steaks
Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Wings Recipe
Crisp skin and big, savory texture make these wings feel like a hearty addition rather than a simple side. They roast to a golden finish in the air fryer and are ideal for sharing. Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Wings Recipe
Best Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe
Eggplant can be hearty and crisp without deep frying. Air frying produces a satisfying exterior while keeping the flesh soft and flavorful—perfect for quick weeknight meals. Get the Recipe: Best Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe
Air Fryer Stuffing
A crisp, golden top with a soft, flavorful center gives stuffing a homemade feel without long oven time. Air fryer stuffing is a great shortcut for weeknights or when you want holiday-style comfort fast. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffing
Air Fryer Cornbread Dressing (Stuffing) Recipe
Cornbread brings depth and the air fryer adds a crisp edge that lifts this dressing. The result is warm, golden, and full of comforting flavor—perfect alongside roasted mains. Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornbread Dressing (Stuffing) Recipe
Sausage Gnocchi Soup
A rich, savory broth and pillowy gnocchi pair beautifully with crunchy sides. This soup is warming, filling, and an ideal companion to golden air-fried bites for a balanced meal. Get the Recipe: Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Beetroot Hummus Without Tahini
Vibrant and smooth, beetroot hummus offers a colorful contrast to crispy sides. Its bright flavor and silky texture make it an excellent dip for chips, wedges, or roasted vegetables. Get the Recipe: Beetroot Hummus Without Tahini