45 Air Fryer Winter Recipes for January Nights You Didn’t Plan Properly

Cold nights in January demand fast solutions, and 45 air fryer winter recipes make things simple when dinner prep gets forgotten. Our days get packed with tasks and distractions, so it’s a win when a shortcut is easy to find. Just turning to an air fryer can save time and keep dinner manageable. Warm food truly helps settle down after unexpected changes.

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

Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A close up of some crinkle cookies. — Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cold January nights call for something special, and this Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe never disappoints. Each cookie has a crackled top with a chewy center that feels like a cozy treat. I make a batch whenever dessert needs to be quick and easy. People are always surprised you can get cookies like this from an air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Golden Air Fryer Homemade Fries

A serving of golden-brown french fries with a side of ketchup. — Golden Air Fryer Homemade Fries. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Comfort comes easy with this Golden Air Fryer Homemade Fries recipe, warming up your dinner table. Crispy on the outside while fluffy in the middle, each fry delivers that classic potato joy. I triple the batch for bigger groups or game nights. Every time, folks ask what makes these fries so special.
Get the Recipe: Golden Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

A tortilla pizza in an air fryer basket. — Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick dinners feel exciting thanks to this Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza. Thin crust crunches under toppings for a snack or meal that works anytime. I let everyone make their own style with what’s in the fridge. Questions always pop up about how the “pizza” turned out so crisp in just a few minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza

Air Fryer Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Four cinnamon rolls with white icing sit on parchment paper beside a wooden spoon containing ground cinnamon. — Air Fryer Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm, gooey, and filled with a cinnamon hug, these Air Fryer Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies treat brings bakery magic home. Each bite is soft, sweet, and comforting on chilly evenings. I love offering these for an easy dessert after dinner. Guests say they could eat a whole tray without blinking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

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

Smooth, creamy, and topped with gentle crunch, this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole fits perfectly in any winter meal. Sweet notes blend with a warm finish that pairs well with hearty entrées. I serve it straight from the air fryer to the table for maximum comfort. Guests ask how it gets so velvety inside.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Air Fryer Bagel Bites

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

Snacks get a fun twist with this Air Fryer Bagel Bites batch, ready in minutes. Each round is crisp outside yet soft inside, perfect for game nights or family gatherings. I customize toppings so everyone finds a favorite. People are always curious how something so simple is also so good.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

A close-up of a chocolate frosted cookie with swirl icing on a white surface, reminiscent of Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies and surrounded by crumbs. — Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert dreams come true when you bite into these Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Fudgy centers and a rich, cake-like texture win over any chocolate lover. I whip these up when I want bakery flavor without ever leaving home. Friends always ask for the secret to that tender crumb.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Air Fryer Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Crisp edges and fluffy centers make this Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes dish an instant winner for chilly winter meals. Each bite holds golden flavor and just enough crunch to keep things interesting. I make extra since leftovers vanish quickly. Even picky eaters come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

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

Classic comfort food gets a speedy makeover in this Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole recipe. Each scoop has creamy sauce and a crisp topping that holds up well. I pair it with simple proteins for a quick weeknight dinner. People wonder how you got that crunchy finish without turning on the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

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.

Sweet apples soften under a bubbly topping in this Air Fryer Apple Cobbler, capturing homey winter flavors. The air fryer helps you whip this up even if you forgot to plan. I serve it with a scoop of ice cream for a comforting finish. Folks always ask how dessert ended up so warm and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Cobbler

Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes in a serving bowl. — Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Little potatoes pack a lot of punch thanks to these Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes. Crisp skins give way to creamy insides that pair with any main course. I toss in a variety of colors to make the plate pop. Guests often ask how to recreate the texture at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Air Fryer Dinner Rolls

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

Pillowy-soft and golden on top, this Air Fryer Dinner Rolls recipe makes getting bread on the table easy. Fresh rolls offer the comfort of a bakery with just a few simple steps. I keep extras on hand for soup nights or as last-minute sandwich buns. Everyone reaches for seconds before the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Dinner Rolls

Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes

Close-up of several red velvet cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting and red cake crumbs, arranged in rows on a surface. — Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert lovers find joy in this Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes recipe during the cold months. Bright color and soft crumb mean no one misses out on a bakery treat. I decorate them with a quick swirl of frosting for extra fun. Guests are shocked at how a cupcake can come from an air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Red Velvet Cupcakes

Air Fryer Pizza

A pizza is being cooked in an air fryer. — Air Fryer Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Busy evenings feel lighter once this Air Fryer Pizza is ready to go in minutes. Crunchy edges meet gooey cheese for a shared meal everyone can build to taste. I use up leftover veggies and deli meats for creative toppings. People grab slices before the rest of dinner is even plated.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

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

Chips come out of the air fryer hot, crisp, and perfect for this Air Fryer Tortilla Chips recipe. Nothing beats snacking on fresh chips with dip during January movie nights. I make small batches to ensure they stay ultra-crunchy. Someone always asks, “Is it really just the air fryer?”
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Air Fryer Chocolate Cake

A decadent slice of chocolate cake, perfectly moist and topped with a luscious layer of frosting, served on a pristine plate. — Air Fryer Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich, decadent, and ready in a snap, this Air Fryer Chocolate Cake makes an ordinary night feel like a party. Moist texture and deep flavor surprise everyone who tries a slice. I rely on this recipe for quick celebrations. No one believes a cake can be this good from an air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chocolate Cake

Air Fryer Garlic Knots

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

Beautifully twisted and so fragrant, these Air Fryer Garlic Knots disappear the moment they hit the plate. Soft dough and garlicky coating make them hard to stop eating. I whip up extra for dipping in soups or sauces. Praise usually centers on how such simple knots smell so good.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Knots

Meaty Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms

A bowl of crispy, breaded air fryer Portobello mushrooms garnished with fresh herbs, accompanied by a small bowl of dipping sauce. — Meaty Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty texture and deep flavor make this Meaty Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms dish a surprise favorite. Each cap turns juicy while the surface gets a gentle crisp. I set them out as either a side or a main for plant-based eaters. People often remark on the steak-like richness each mushroom delivers.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms

Air Fryer Thumbprint Cookies

Stacks of thumbprint cookies filled with red jam are arranged on a light countertop, with a jar of jam and a cream-colored pitcher in the background. — Air Fryer Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Buttery dough and a dollop of sweetness set this Air Fryer Thumbprint Cookies recipe apart during the winter baking season. Every cookie offers a cute and colorful little surprise inside. I use them for dessert platters or as quick gifts for friends. Kids and adults both sneak seconds whenever they’re around.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Thumbprint Cookies

Air Fryer Gnocchi

Close-up of a plate of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley. — Air Fryer Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cloudlike pillows with crispy edges make this Air Fryer Gnocchi a winner for unexpected dinner nights. The air fryer takes them from basic to special in no time. I toss them with a favorite sauce or let them stand alone. People are always stunned that gnocchi can taste this good at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Gnocchi

Savory Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture. — Savory Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Herbal aroma and a rich finish turn this Savory Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms dish into a regular on winter menus. Gentle browning draws out intense flavors ideal for pairing with simple mains. I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving to brighten up dinner. Everyone wants a taste, no matter their age.
Get the Recipe: Savory Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Air Fryer Cheesecake

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

Silky and creamy, this Air Fryer Cheesecake brings a little magic to cold evenings. No need to stress about complicated baking steps thanks to the air fryer shortcut. I like serving slices with fresh fruit for a light finish. Every guest is amazed by how smooth it comes out every single time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesecake

Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast

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

Hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast delivers what winter meals crave. Each slice holds together beautifully for easy serving. I use it as the centerpiece for plant-based dinners that feel special. Everyone around the table enjoys discovering what’s inside every bite.
Get the Recipe: Savory Air Fryer Nut Roast

Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

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

Busy schedules get a little easier once these Air Fryer Pizza Bagels are ready for dinner. Crisp bagel halves serve as crunchy bases for cheese and sauce. I line up toppings so guests can personalize every bite. Hands reach for seconds without anyone ever getting bored at the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Bagels

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.

Nutty flavor and perfect crispness make this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Casserole stand out in winter. The casserole warms the kitchen while offering something fresh and filling. I sneak leftovers into lunch bowls for the next day. Comments usually focus on the sign that Brussels sprouts finally got an upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Air Fryer Broccoli Soup

Bowl of green soup with croutons, shredded cheese, a mint leaf, and a swirl of olive oil on top. — Air Fryer Broccoli Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy, green, and rich, this Air Fryer Broccoli Soup changes up weeknight dinners in a good way. The air fryer helps the broccoli roast for a more intense flavor. I top each bowl with a dash of something crunchy for fun. Kids ask for a second helping, even if they usually turn up their noses at broccoli.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli Soup

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges in a bowl. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Each wedge from this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges batch comes out just right, golden on the edges and soft inside. The natural sweetness pairs well with anything you plan for a winter dinner. I serve them straight from the basket for maximum warmth. Smiles usually follow every plate of these fries.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole

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

Hearty grains and veggies come together in this Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole for a comforting January meal. The finished dish is full of texture that keeps every bite interesting. I like dishing up extra for leftover lunches. People often request the simple recipe after only one bite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Wild Rice Casserole

Air Fryer Corn Chowder

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.

Hot soup on a cold night feels extra rewarding with this Air Fryer Corn Chowder. Vibrant flavors make it both fresh and warming for everyone at the table. I pour extra into mugs for easy sipping in front of the TV. The whole batch disappears in minutes when the weather gets chilly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn Chowder

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fast, caramelized, and ready for any dinner, these Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes shine as a simple side. Bite-sized pieces are fun to eat for adults and kids alike. I toss them into grain bowls or serve them next to baked proteins. Questions fly about how they turn out so perfectly browned.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

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.

Rainbow veggies simmer into comfort with this Air Fryer Vegetable Soup recipe. The air fryer makes prepping the vegetables simple and fast for busy nights. I serve up steaming bowls right away to help everyone shake off the cold. People love the robust flavor that comes from such an easy recipe.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Vegetable Soup

Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham

Vegan ham on a serving plate. — Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A centerpiece that always surprises, this Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham holds up well for special dinners. Slices come out tender yet sturdy, full of flavor that fits the winter mood. I serve it with classic sides for a holiday feel any night. Guests ask how you got that smoky finish from plants.
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Air Fryer Vegan Ham

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.

Silky soup is only a few minutes away with this Air Fryer Tomato Soup recipe. Roasted tomatoes blend into a bowlful of pure comfort and warmth. I swirl in a little cream for a pretty finish. Most people swear this is the best version of tomato soup they have ever had.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tomato Soup

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.

Crispy edges and a tender core make this Plant-Based Air Fryer Black Bean Burger a popular winter meal. Each patty holds up well on a bun with all the toppings you want. I built a quick burger bar so everyone can have it their own way. Requests for seconds always happen before cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Air Fryer Black Bean Burger

Air Fryer Crostini

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

These Air Fryer Crostini slices work for last-minute dinner parties or lazy nights at home. Each piece is golden and crunchy, perfect for loading up with spreads or dips. I like setting out a platter for easy grazing. Someone usually asks how something so simple brings so much flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: 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.

Crumbly topping and sweet, spiced apples form the heart of this Air Fryer Apple Crisp recipe. It bakes up warm and golden for a comfort dessert after cold day adventures. I sneak a bowlful before anyone else gets to dessert. Friends ask for a share before it even cools off.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp

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.

Deep flavor and pleasing texture mean this Air Fryer Lentil Soup stands out on cold nights. Nutty lentils come together with veggies for the kind of meal that sticks with you. I pull out this recipe for easy leftovers. No one minds eating soup two nights in a row.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lentil Soup

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

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

Hot snacks win winter game nights with this Air Fryer Pizza Rolls recipe. Gooey filling and a crispy shell turn each bite into a party favorite. I keep dipping sauces on the side for more fun. People grab these by the handful until the basket is empty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

A chocolate layer cake with a slice removed, showing a caramel and coconut filling, and covered with chocolate frosting. — Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fudgy layers and coconut topping make this Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake extra memorable. Moist cake comes together easily, so the dessert feels much less stressful. I serve thick slices with coffee for an after-dinner pick-me-up. Compliments pour in about the rich, chocolatey finish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer German Chocolate Cake

Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

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

Sweet glaze and just the right bite make these Glazed Air Fryer Carrots shine as a side dish. Orange spears look cheerful on a January dinner plate. I toss them in for parties or keep the batch for lunch bowls. Dinner guests always ask for more, expecting the carrots to vanish quickly.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Air Fryer Carrots

Air Fryer Baked Potato

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

Puffy skin and fluffy centers define this Air Fryer Baked Potato recipe’s strength. You get a perfect canvas for any toppings, from classic to creative. I set up a potato bar for diners to finish their own. Silence falls while everyone digs into their steaming potato.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Two stuffed peppers in a bowl with melted cheese on top. — Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Each Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers brings color and warmth with a ready-to-go filling inside. Peppers hold their shape, while the filling turns soft and comforting. I let friends choose their favorite stuffing options for more fun. People usually ask for leftovers they can pack up for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

Two flatbread pizzas on a tray. — Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thin crust and bold toppings make this Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza recipe ideal for last-minute dinners. Crunch from the air fryer holds up under sauce and cheese. I like cutting small pieces for sharing at gatherings. Someone always grabs seconds before finishing the first slice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

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

Natural sweetness and soft centers draw diners to this Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes batch all winter. They make a great base for almost any topping or as a simple side. I love having them with both spicy and sweet flavors. Most people cannot resist grabbing one straight from the basket.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes

On cold January nights, this Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes recipe offers classic comfort on every plate. Each slice of potato gets just tender enough without turning mushy. I bring out this favorite for group dinners with friends. By the end of the meal, there are never any leftovers to pack away.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes