33 Air Fryer Meal Prep Recipe Ideas For Busy Weeks That Need a Head Start

Tackling weekly meals goes smoother by having 33 air fryer meal prep ideas ready to roll. Anyone who juggles work, errands, and family knows the struggle of fitting dinner into packed schedules. Preparing meals in advance often means less stress and better organization at dinner time. Quick cooking options from the air fryer help everything come together faster.

A bowl of vegetable chowder with potatoes, corn, celery, and peppers, topped with black pepper and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with a celery leaf. — Air Fryer Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fluffy Air Fryer Egg Casserole

A white casserole dish with an egg casserole in it. — Fluffy Air Fryer Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Early mornings feel a lot easier with this Fluffy Air Fryer Egg Casserole waiting. Each bite is soft and packed with a gentle flavor that makes breakfast feel special. I set out slices for grab-and-go meals on busy days. Everyone beams at the puffy texture that makes this casserole stand out.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Air Fryer Egg Casserole

Air Fryer Tomato Soup

A bowl of tomato soup topped with toasted bread pieces, fresh thyme sprigs, and cracked black pepper. — Air Fryer Tomato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Steaming bowls of Air Fryer Tomato Soup offer comfort during chilly afternoons. The rich broth feels cozy without being heavy and pairs well with crisp sides. I ladle out extra during meal prep so lunches are covered. Friends always mention its bright, full taste before finishing their bowls.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tomato Soup

Mini Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

A pizza bagel with bbq sauce and parsley. — Mini Air Fryer Pizza Bagels. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snack cravings vanish fast with Mini Air Fryer Pizza Bagels stacked on the counter. Small enough for quick eating, each bagel packs cheesy fun into every bite. I prepare extra because hands reach for seconds every single time. Laughs begin right as people see these tiny pizza creations.
Get the Recipe: Mini Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

Plant-Based Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

Two homemade black bean burgers in buns ready to eat. — Plant-Based Air Fryer Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Game night or quick lunch, Plant-Based Air Fryer Black Bean Burger wins new fans. Crisp edges and hearty centers combine for a satisfying bite you’ll remember. I add this to my weekly meal prep rotation without missing a beat. People say it’s hard to believe it’s plant-based after all.
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

Air Fryer Apple Cobbler

A baking dish filled with apple cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; a serving has been scooped out with a spoon. — Air Fryer Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Warm spices and bubbling fruit leap out in Air Fryer Apple Cobbler. Each spoonful blends sweet apples with a comforting crumble top. I reserve this treat for chilly evenings that call for dessert right out of the basket. Whoever tries it asks about the gentle sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Cobbler

Quick Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Bagel bites in an air fryer basket. — Quick Air Fryer Bagel Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Midday munchies meet their match in Quick Air Fryer Bagel Bites. Fast to assemble, these little bites are perfect for school lunches or busy workdays. I keep homemade batches in the freezer, ready for any moment. People smile as the cheese stretches with each mouthful.
Get the Recipe: Quick Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Air Fryer Vegetable Soup

A bowl of vegetable soup with spinach, peas, carrots, celery, and large white beans, topped with grated cheese. — Air Fryer Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful veggies bring balance to mealtime with Air Fryer Vegetable Soup. Each bowl feels light yet filling and makes dinners easy on busy weeks. I keep extra portions chilled for easy heat-and-serve lunches. Every spoonful delivers a touch of comfort without weighing you down.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Vegetable Soup

Air fryer Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked dinner rolls with a brushed glaze, arranged in a dish. — Air fryer Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Puffy centers and golden tops greet you inside Air fryer Dinner Rolls. These soft rolls pair beautifully with everything from soup to salad. I bake a pile before meal prep so there’s always bread to grab. Someone always reaches for a second roll thanks to the irresistible aroma.
Get the Recipe: Air fryer Dinner Rolls

Air Fryer Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil soup garnished with fresh cilantro, ground pepper, and a swirl of cream. — Air Fryer Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bowl of Air Fryer Lentil Soup is all it takes to stay full on a busy day. Hearty legumes simmer to perfection and fit right into cold-weather lunches or dinners. I set aside enough for leftover meals throughout the week. People are amazed by the creamy texture inside every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lentil Soup

Crispy Air Fryer Crostini

Slices of crispy toasted bread with a golden-brown crust, displayed in a pile. — Crispy Air Fryer Crostini. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized crunch arrives with Crispy Air Fryer Crostini stacked high for snacking. These crisp rounds give salads and soups an upgrade without much fuss. I like serving them at big gatherings or with meal prep sets. The golden crunch inspires people to grab just one more piece.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Crostini

Air Fryer Apple Crisp

A baked apple crumble in a speckled baking dish with a serving spoon, some crumble scooped out, and extra spoons nearby. — Air Fryer Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet fruit and crumbling topping make Air Fryer Apple Crisp a star in the dessert section. The tender filling pairs so well with any main course. I stash extra helpings for after-dinner treats all week long. Pleasing warmth draws plenty of compliments each time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp

Sweet Air Fryer French Toast Casserole

A dish of French toast with pecans and powdered sugar. — Sweet Air Fryer French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast feels like a celebration once you taste Sweet Air Fryer French Toast Casserole. Fluffy squares filled with cinnamon richness bring smiles to the breakfast crowd. I rely on leftovers to kick off busy mornings. No crumb is ever left after people try a piece or two.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Air Fryer French Toast Casserole

Air Fryer Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes topped with caramelized onions and grated cheese in a white dish. — Air Fryer Mashed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy spoonfuls of Air Fryer Mashed Sweet Potatoes light up plates with gentle, earthy flavors. The smooth texture helps dinner take on a cozy feel even in the rush. I prep a big batch since it fits nearly any main course. People ask how it keeps so fluffy all week.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork. — Creamy Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of soft asparagus and creamy sauce fill every bite of Creamy Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole. Light but flavorful, it matches winter menus with elegance. I pack servings for lunches or to give dinners an instant upgrade. Even picky eaters often mention how much they enjoy the green goodness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Air Fryer Asparagus Casserole

Soft Air Fryer Garlic Knots

A close-up of a baked garlic knot topped with chopped herbs and spices, displaying a golden-brown crust. — Soft Air Fryer Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dough twists packed with garlic make Soft Air Fryer Garlic Knots extra popular. Pillowy inside and golden outside, they work with anything from soups to pasta. I stash leftovers for snacking after late meetings. The aroma always draws smiles homeward.
Get the Recipe: Soft Air Fryer Garlic Knots

Cheesy Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole

Close-up of an air fryer mushroom casserole topped with crispy, browned ingredients and garnished with chopped green herbs. — Cheesy Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Savory bites and gooey cheese overflow in Cheesy Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole. Hearty grains and a creamy finish ensure this meal sticks around in everyone’s mind. I dish out generous servings at potlucks for max comfort. Conversations always center on how creamy the rice feels.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole

Fluffy Air Fryer Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley. — Fluffy Air Fryer Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort food gets simpler with Fluffy Air Fryer Baked Potato on the table. The skins turn perfectly crisp while the insides stay soft and light. I serve these with favorite toppings for a build-your-own dinner spread. Friends love how easy it is to prep ahead for the week.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Air Fryer Baked Potato

Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

Air fryer glazed carrots in a bowl with parsley. — Glazed Air Fryer Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet and shiny, Glazed Air Fryer Carrots bring color and crunch to packed lunches and busy dinners. Each bite offers a gentle snap full of natural flavor. I add them to meal prep boxes for extra energy and style. Plates clear quickly thanks to their kid-friendly sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

Creamy Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

A white dish with scalloped potatoes and parsley. — Creamy Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of rich sauce tucked between slices in Creamy Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes. Each forkful comes with a savory hint that feels right for any comfort meal. I set aside extra for buffet-style weeknight dinners. People join the line hoping to grab another mouthful before it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

Air Fryer Cheesecake

A cheesecake on a cake stand. — Air Fryer Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A creamy slice of Air Fryer Cheesecake ends hectic days on a high note. The smooth inside always gets attention at the dessert counter. I portion leftovers into small lunchboxes and snack trays. Someone inevitably asks how it manages that bakery-style fluffiness every single time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesecake

Crispy Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

A white dish with green bean casserole in it. — Crispy Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy topping steals the show in Crispy Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole. Tender beans underneath mean easy meal prep on deadline days. I make enough for second helpings because guests always request more. That classic casserole aroma fills the whole kitchen before serving starts.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast

Nut roast with cranberry sauce on a plate. — Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Packed with plant-based protein, Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast makes lunches or dinners extra filling. Each slice delivers bold flavor and a gentle crunch within. I serve it to folks looking for vegetarian comfort food. Those who try it mention how well it works for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with roasted Brussels sprouts, melted cheese, crispy onions, and chopped herbs on top. — Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Roasted notes and golden layers fill plates with Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Bitter edges soften, transforming these sprouts into comfort favorites. I add extra servings to my weekly meal prep for nutrition and taste. People talk about the crispy top long after dinner has finished.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Tender Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Three baked sweet potatoes with butter and chives on. — Tender Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cozy up to Tender Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes for a side dish that’s flavorful, soft, and easy to love. These bright orange bites make every lunch kit more inviting. I use them in salads or beside main dishes for lasting energy. Compliments roll in on how perfectly cooked they turn out.
Get the Recipe: Tender Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Air Fryer Strawberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake on a plate with a delicious strawberry topping. — Creamy Air Fryer Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet berries and lush cream cheese combine here in Creamy Air Fryer Strawberry Cheesecake. Pink swirls and soft texture keep dessert time fresh each week. I save extra slices for picnic boxes or afternoon snacks. Kids and adults ask how such creamy cheesecake comes from the air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Air Fryer Strawberry Cheesecake

Golden Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes in a serving bowl, with serving spoons and a small bowl of fresh parsley. — Golden Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Morning routines pick up steam thanks to Golden Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes. Uniform crisp makes these bites perfect for mixing with eggs or scrambled tofu. I scoop big helpings into prep bowls so mornings run smoothly. People enjoy the warm color and soft crunch day after day.
Get the Recipe: Golden Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

Air Fryer Pancake Casserole

A serving of French toast casserole topped with blueberries, strawberries, and powdered sugar sits on a plate next to a fork; a bowl of fresh strawberries is nearby. — Air Fryer Pancake Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Slices of Air Fryer Pancake Casserole turn breakfast into a party right at home. Sweet layers and fluffy texture mean seconds are a sure thing. I split leftovers into meal prep trays for busy weekday mornings. The rich maple aroma tempts everyone to try a bite even when they’re not hungry.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pancake Casserole

Hot Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other. — Hot Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bites filled with cheese and sauce spice up any lunchbox with Hot Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. The crisp exterior and gooey middle transform quick meals into real treats. I keep extras on hand for unexpected snack attacks. No one misses standard pizza when these pop up at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hot Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Crunchy Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air fried tortilla chips stacked on a plate around a bowl of dipping sauce. — Crunchy Air Fryer Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cold salads or spicy dips pair best with Crunchy Air Fryer Tortilla Chips fresh out of the basket. Each chip brings snap, salty goodness, and a golden hue. I cool batches for main meals or game-day spreads. Every handful disappears fast because the crunch keeps folks coming back.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Sweet Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

A white dish with a sweet potato casserole on top of a wooden cutting board. — Sweet Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet layers and cinnamon flavor add warmth to meal plans in Sweet Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Each portion balances comfort and sweetness for easy weeknight dinners. I pack single servings so dessert is never far away. Friends always say it brightens any cold-weather meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Tangy Air Fryer Lemon Bars

Close-up of lemon bars with a crumbly base and a smooth, yellow filling, cut into squares, placed on parchment paper. Silver utensils are visible to the side. — Tangy Air Fryer Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cutting into Tangy Air Fryer Lemon Bars rewards you with a pop of citrus and creamy filling. Each square fits perfectly in lunch trays and snack wraps. I share these at office gatherings for that cheerful lemon twist. Nobody expects such bright flavor from the air fryer, and compliments start flying.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Air Fryer Lemon Bars

Sweet Air Fryer Strawberry Shortcake

Two layers of biscuit with cream and sliced strawberries in between, topped with more strawberries and a sprinkle of green zest. — Sweet Air Fryer Strawberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fluffy biscuits layered with berries make Sweet Air Fryer Strawberry Shortcake a playful meal prep dessert. Pink fruit and soft cake brighten up even messy days. I set aside containers for after-school treats or dessert cravings. Kids and grown-ups are both drawn to the vivid colors.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Air Fryer Strawberry Shortcake

Air Fryer Corn Chowder

Bowls of Air Fryer Corn Chowder chase away chills and set lunch prep ahead of schedule. Creamy broth and sweet corn pack in both comfort and crunch. I fill thermoses with extra soup for on-the-go warmth. Guests linger over its gentle, homey taste at potluck tables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn Chowder