Air Fryer Appetizers That Always Disappear First

Air fryer appetizer recipes are a great way to make quick, crispy bites with less oil and less mess. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or just when you want a fun snack. With fast cook times and easy prep, they’re hard to beat.

From cheesy bites to crispy veggies and wings, there’s a wide range of options to try. The air fryer gives that golden texture without needing deep frying, which makes it both convenient and efficient. You can keep things classic or mix it up with new flavors.

These appetizers are crowd-pleasers and easy to scale for small or large groups. Whether you’re hosting or just making a snack for yourself, the air fryer keeps it simple. It’s a smart way to bring flavor and crunch to the table without the fuss.

Bacon Wrapped Dates

These little bites pack a sweet and savory punch, with soft dates wrapped in crispy bacon. They’re easy to prep and even easier to serve at parties or for a quick appetizer. You can stuff the dates with cheese or nuts for an extra layer of flavor. Once baked or air fried, they come out caramelized and crisp on the outside, gooey in the middle.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Dates

Air Fryer Calamari

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, this version of calamari skips the deep fryer without losing the crunch. A simple coating helps lock in flavor, while the air fryer keeps things light. Serve it with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. It’s a great appetizer or quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Calamari

Buffalo Chicken Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Spicy buffalo chicken wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper makes these perfect for game day or a fun weeknight dinner. They come out crunchy on the outside and packed with bold flavor inside. Serve with ranch or blue cheese for dipping. A great way to switch things up from traditional wings.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

These meatballs are tender, juicy, and easy to make in the air fryer with minimal cleanup. Seasoned just right, they’re great for pasta night, meal prep, or quick snacks. You can serve them with marinara, barbecue sauce, or even toss them into a salad. A solid go-to when you want something homemade and easy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized mushrooms are filled with a flavorful mixture—think cheese, herbs, maybe a bit of sausage or breadcrumbs. They bake up golden on top while staying juicy inside. Perfect for parties or holiday spreads. Easy to prep ahead and pop in the oven when you’re ready.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Golden and crunchy without the oil, these onion rings are coated in a light, plant-based batter. They come out crisp and full of flavor, perfect for dipping in ketchup or vegan ranch. A great option when you want something snacky but still light. No deep fryer required.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp

These shrimp cook fast and come out juicy, coated in a bold Cajun seasoning mix. Toss them in the air fryer and you’ve got dinner or appetizers ready in minutes. Serve with rice, tuck into tacos, or enjoy on their own. Big flavor, minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp

Air Fryer Short Ribs

Tender, flavorful short ribs with a crispy edge—all made easier with the air fryer. They cook faster than traditional methods but still come out rich and satisfying. Add your favorite marinade or spice rub for extra depth. Great with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Short Ribs

Zucchini Fries

A lighter take on fries, these zucchini sticks are coated in breadcrumbs or panko and air fried until golden. They’re a great way to use up extra zucchini and work well with a variety of dips. Crunchy on the outside, tender inside. A fun veggie side or snack.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fries

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Carrot sticks get a crispy upgrade in the air fryer and pair perfectly with a garlicky aioli dip. They’re naturally sweet, and a little seasoning brings them to life. A great alternative to regular fries that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Easy to prep and quick to cook.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

Creamy, crispy, and just the right amount of rich, these little bites are filled with crab and cream cheese. The air fryer gives them a crunchy shell without the grease. Serve with sweet chili sauce or soy dipping sauce. Ideal for parties or when you want a takeout favorite at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Tater tots smothered with melty cheese, steak, onions, and peppers bring all the flavor of a Philly cheesesteak in one bite. These are rich, hearty, and great for sharing. Everything crisps up perfectly in the oven or air fryer. A fun snack or casual meal when you’re craving something cheesy and bold.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Tangy pickles coated in a crispy shell and cooked to golden perfection. They make a fun snack or appetizer, especially with a side of ranch. The air fryer keeps them crisp without the mess of frying. A salty, crunchy bite with a lot of personality.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

These tofu nuggets come out crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a flavorful coating that holds up well. Serve with a dairy-free ranch sauce for dipping, or tuck into wraps and bowls. They’re great for meal prep or snacking. A plant-based favorite that delivers on crunch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Bacon Wrapped Pickles in the Air Fryer

This salty-sour combo is simple but seriously addictive. The bacon crisps up around the pickle spears in the air fryer, giving you a crunchy, savory bite with a tangy core. Great for parties, game nights, or anytime you want something bold. Serve with ranch or spicy mayo for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Pickles in the Air Fryer

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Loaded tots with gooey cheddar, crispy bacon, and a hint of spice bring that indulgent, fast-food style comfort to your kitchen. Everything crisps up nicely in the air fryer, and you can customize the toppings to suit your mood. Serve as a side, a snack, or a casual dinner. Definitely not boring.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Crispy Air Fryer Mushrooms

These mushrooms are breaded and cooked until crispy on the outside and juicy inside. They’re a fun alternative to fried snacks and go great with dipping sauces. Easy to whip up and a great way to use up extra mushrooms. Serve as an appetizer or a crunchy side dish.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Mushrooms

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Homemade or store-bought, pizza rolls get that perfect crispy texture in the air fryer. The outside turns golden while the inside stays melty and cheesy. Great for quick snacks, party trays, or late-night cravings. No oven needed, just a few minutes of cook time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

These shrimp are wrapped in smoky bacon and cooked until both are perfectly crisp and juicy. The air fryer helps lock in flavor without the grease. Serve with a spicy or sweet dipping sauce for extra flavor. A great combo of seafood and bacon in one easy dish.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

Crispy panko coating gives these shrimp a satisfying crunch while keeping the inside tender. They’re quick to cook and great for dipping in cocktail or spicy mayo sauce. Ideal as an appetizer or as the main event with rice or salad. A seafood option that’s light and full of texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Samosas

These air fryer samosas are filled with a spiced veggie mixture and wrapped in a crispy shell. They come out golden and crunchy without needing to deep fry. Serve with tamarind or mint chutney for a flavorful bite. A great option for appetizers, snacks, or meatless meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Samosas