Crunchy Appetizers to Get Things Started

Fried appetizers are always a hit, whether you’re hosting a party or just want something crispy to snack on. They’re quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing. From bite-sized to bold, there’s something for every kind of craving.

You’ll find classics like onion rings and mozzarella sticks, along with fun twists like stuffed jalapeños or crispy wontons. Many of these can be made ahead and fried just before serving, making things easier when guests arrive.

They work great as starters or even as a fun meal when you mix a few together. With the right dip or sauce on the side, fried appetizers always bring something extra to the table.

Bacon Wrapped Pickles in the Air Fryer

Crispy bacon wrapped around tangy pickles makes for a bold, salty snack with just the right amount of crunch. The air fryer helps the bacon crisp up quickly without much mess. They’re great for parties, game day, or when you want something easy and different. Serve with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Pickles in the Air Fryer

Avocado Egg Rolls

Creamy avocado with a bit of crunch from veggies, all rolled up in a crispy wrapper—these are perfect for dipping. Whether you pair them with sweet chili sauce or a zesty dip, they hit that balance of rich and fresh. A great starter or light snack that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Egg Rolls

Crispy Air Fried Lemon Pepper Wings

These wings are full of flavor thanks to the lemon pepper seasoning and turn out extra crispy in the air fryer. No oil splatter or long cook time—just juicy wings with a punch of citrus and spice. They’re easy to prep and make a great appetizer or main. Best served with a cool dip on the side.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fried Lemon Pepper Wings

Crab Cream Cheese Wontons

A creamy crab and cheese filling tucked inside crisp, golden wrappers—these wontons are a restaurant favorite made easy at home. The filling is rich and smooth, while the wrapper gets perfectly crisp in just minutes. Serve with a sweet or spicy dipping sauce for the full effect.
Get the Recipe: Crab Cream Cheese Wontons

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

This combo of smoky bacon and tender shrimp is hard to beat. The bacon crisps up while the shrimp stays juicy, making every bite a hit. Great for skewers, party trays, or a quick appetizer. A little squeeze of lemon or a glaze can add something extra.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Golden and crunchy, these onion rings are completely plant-based but don’t skimp on texture or flavor. The batter crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, giving them that classic snap without the deep-fry fuss. Serve with ketchup, spicy mayo, or your go-to dip. They’re great as a side or snack.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Pickles

These pickles are coated in a seasoned crust and crisped up to perfection in the air fryer. The tangy-salty flavor with the crunchy coating makes them a fun snack or appetizer. A creamy dipping sauce on the side brings it all together. They’re easy to make and gone fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

These little patties pack a punch with bold seasonings and just the right heat. Made with canned salmon, they’re affordable, quick to mix, and ideal for meal prep. Crisped on the outside, tender inside—great for sliders, salads, or as a quick protein snack.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Bacon Wrapped Crackers

Crunchy, salty, and a little smoky, these bacon-wrapped crackers are a simple but addictive snack. A sprinkle of brown sugar or spice adds a sweet-savory contrast. Bake or air fry until the bacon is crisp and the crackers are golden. Great for parties or late-night snacking.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Crackers

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Crispy on the outside, gooey with cheese and sauce on the inside—these are a nostalgic favorite with a homemade twist. The air fryer gives them a perfect crunch without overcooking the filling. A quick snack or game day staple that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Bacon Wrapped Dates

Sweet dates wrapped in smoky bacon are a classic combination of chewy, crispy, and rich. The natural sweetness of the dates balances the salty bacon for a perfect bite. Serve warm for appetizers or pair with a tangy cheese if you’re feeling fancy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Dates

Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Layers of roasted or crisped eggplant, whipped ricotta, and a hint of herbs make this a standout appetizer or side. It’s light yet delicious, with creamy and crispy textures in every bite. Serve stacked or layered in a baking dish—either way, it looks as good as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Zucchini Fries

Coated in breadcrumbs and crisped in the air fryer, these zucchini fries are a great way to change things up. They’re crunchy on the outside and tender inside, perfect for dipping. Add a sprinkle of parmesan or seasoning for extra flavor. A fun way to enjoy veggies without it feeling like a chore.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fries

Fried Marinated Tofu

Tofu gets a major upgrade when it’s marinated and then fried until golden and crisp. The air fryer gives it a perfect texture without the oil overload. Great for topping salads, adding to bowls, or enjoying as a protein-packed snack.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu

Buffalo Chicken Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, all wrapped up and crisped in the air fryer—these are a bold, crowd-pleasing snack. The wrapper turns golden and crunchy while the inside stays creamy and flavorful. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip for that classic combo.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

These carrot fries crisp up beautifully and are a great alternative to the usual spuds. Lightly seasoned and paired with a creamy aioli, they’re packed with flavor in every bite. A fun, easy side or snack that feels just a little bit different.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Crispy Air Fryer Mushrooms

Sliced mushrooms coated and air fried to a golden crisp make for a great snack or appetizer. They’re earthy, crunchy, and pair well with all kinds of dipping sauces. A fun way to switch up how you serve mushrooms—perfect for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Mushrooms

Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters

These cheesy bites are soft in the middle with a crisp outer layer, thanks to the air fryer. The smokiness from the gouda adds a deep flavor, while the ricotta keeps them creamy. Serve as an appetizer or pair with a dip for an easy party platter option.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda and Ricotta Fritters

Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

Creamy crab and cheese filling inside a crisp wrapper—these are just as good as takeout, but made right at home. The air fryer makes the shells crunchy without the oil. Great as a starter or part of a snack board.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

Southwest Egg Rolls

Filled with seasoned beans, corn, peppers, and cheese, these egg rolls are packed with bold flavor. The air fryer makes them crispy without needing to deep-fry. Pair with salsa, guac, or chipotle ranch for dipping. They’re perfect for parties or as a meatless main.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Samosas

Crispy pockets filled with spiced potatoes and peas, these samosas turn out golden without any deep frying. The wrapper gets that perfect crunch while the filling stays warm and hearty. Serve with chutney or a simple yogurt dip for extra flavor. Great for snacks, sides, or appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Samosas