Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones to share stories, laughter, and delicious food. However, juggling multiple dishes can get overwhelming, and that’s where the air fryer saves the day. Not only does it cut down on cooking time, but it also ensures that sides come out crispy and flavorful without the hassle.
These 20 air fryer Thanksgiving sides are the perfect way to streamline your meal prep while still impressing your guests. From golden dinner rolls to caramelized vegetables, these recipes promise bursts of flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or feeding a crowd, these air fryer sides will have your friends and family asking for seconds. Now, let’s dive into these must-try recipes and bring joy to your meal, one crispy bite at a time.
1. Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
A savory classic with a twist, these Brussels sprouts are crispy and coated in Parmesan cheese with a hint of garlic. They’re perfect for balancing heavier dishes like stuffing or mashed potatoes. You could easily double or triple this recipe.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse and pat them dry. Trim the stems from the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Season the Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Sprouts: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. If making larger quantities make sure to cook in batches.
- Add Parmesan: In the final 2 minutes, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the sprouts and continue cooking until they are golden brown.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
2. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
These air fryer sweet potato fries are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With a crispy exterior and a tender center, they make a healthy alternative to regular fries without compromising on taste. Perfectly seasoned with paprika and garlic, they pair well with everything from turkey to dips like aioli or ketchup.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into thin fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into thin fries (about ¼-inch thick). Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
- Season the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Make sure all fries are well-coated with the seasoning.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Fries: Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure maximum crispiness. If needed, cook in batches.
- Cook the Fries: Air fry the sweet potato fries for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Check for Doneness: The fries should be crispy on the edges and soft inside. If you prefer them crispier, add 2-3 more minutes of cooking time.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the fries to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional salt, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dip, such as aioli or spicy ketchup.
3. Air Fryer Rosemary Dinner Rolls
These rosemary-infused dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and aromatic, perfect for complementing savory Thanksgiving dishes. The air fryer gives them a beautiful golden exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Whether slathered with butter or served plain, these rolls will become a holiday staple.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 10 mins (plus 1 hour rise) | Cook Time: 12 mins
Air Fryer Rosemary Dinner Rolls Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk, 110°F/45°C)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
How to Make Air Fryer Rosemary Dinner Rolls
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water or milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy. This ensures the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and chopped rosemary.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a smooth ball.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the dough balls in the basket, leaving space between each roll to allow them to expand.
- Cook the Rolls: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through. If the rolls are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
- Finish with Olive Oil: Once the rolls are golden brown, brush them with olive oil for a beautiful shine and extra flavor.
- Serve Warm: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra rosemary, if desired, and serve with butter or as part of your Thanksgiving meal.
4. Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
These buttery glazed carrots are sweet and tender, with a light caramelization that makes them a hit at any holiday table.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots Ingredients
- 1 lb baby carrots
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
How to Make Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
- Season the Carrots: In a bowl, toss the baby carrots with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Carrots: Place the carrots in the basket and cook for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm.
5. Air Fryer Candied Pecans
Sweet, crunchy, and lightly spiced, these candied pecans make a fantastic topping for salads or desserts—or enjoy them as a snack!
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 8 mins
Air Fryer Candied Pecans Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
How to Make Air Fryer Candied Pecans
- Prepare the Pecans: In a bowl, toss the pecans with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until coated evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pecans: Place the pecans in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pecans cool on a baking sheet to harden before serving.
6. Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus adds an elegant touch to your Thanksgiving table while being incredibly easy to prepare. The air fryer ensures that the bacon becomes crisp while the asparagus remains tender. This savory side dish pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or any rich entrée.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Ingredients
- 12 asparagus spears
- 6 slices of bacon (cut in half)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
- Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus and trim the woody ends. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure crisp bacon wrapping.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each asparagus spear. Secure the ends by tucking them underneath the asparagus.
- Season the Wrapped Spears: Lightly spray the bacon-wrapped asparagus with cooking spray, then sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange in the Basket: Place the asparagus spears in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each spear. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook and Flip: Air fry for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through cooking, use tongs to flip the spears for even browning.
- Check for Crispness: Cook until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. If needed, add 1-2 more minutes to ensure the bacon is fully rendered.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the bacon-wrapped asparagus to a platter and serve hot. Enjoy them as a savory, crowd-pleasing side or appetizer.
7. Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Potatoes
These crispy herb-roasted potatoes make a perfect side dish, with rosemary and thyme giving them a fragrant twist. The air fryer ensures that the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside. They’re a versatile addition to any Thanksgiving dinner, complementing both turkey and vegetarian dishes.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins
Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Potatoes Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Potatoes
- Wash and Cut the Potatoes: Rinse the potatoes thoroughly and slice them in half. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring that they don’t overlap. This allows them to cook evenly and get crispy. Bake in batches making sure to not over crowd the potatoes.
- Cook the Potatoes: Air fry for 15-17 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Check for Doneness: Test the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender inside and crispy on the edges. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with extra rosemary, if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture.
8. Air Fryer Butternut Squash Cubes
Butternut squash cubes caramelize beautifully in the air fryer, offering a sweet and savory flavor with a hint of cinnamon. This dish brings warmth and color to your table, and it’s a healthy, festive side perfect for Thanksgiving. Its natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the season’s heavier entrees.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins
Air Fryer Butternut Squash Cubes Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Butternut Squash Cubes
- Peel and Cube the Squash: Carefully peel the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and cube it into bite-sized pieces.
- Season the Squash: In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well-coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Squash: Place the cubes in the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for Caramelization: When the edges are golden and caramelized, the squash is ready. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve Warm: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy hot. Optional: Drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
9. Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a crowd-pleaser, and the air fryer makes them perfectly golden with a deliciously cheesy filling. This recipe features cream cheese, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs for a savory bite that’s great as an appetizer or side dish. They’re easy to make yet elegant enough for any holiday table.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 8 mins
Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms, stems removed
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp cloth. Remove the stems and scoop out a bit of the inside to make room for the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Use a spoon to fill each mushroom cap generously with the prepared filling. Press the filling slightly to ensure it stays in place.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat.
- Arrange the Mushrooms: Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Air fry for 8 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve Hot: Remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and let them cool for 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or appetizer.
10. Air Fryer Green Bean Almondine
A fresh take on a holiday classic, green bean almondine comes together beautifully in the air fryer. The beans stay crisp-tender while the almonds toast to golden perfection. This dish is simple, elegant, and adds a pop of green to your Thanksgiving spread.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 8 mins
Air Fryer Green Bean Almondine Ingredients
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for serving)
How to Make Air Fryer Green Bean Almondine
- Prepare the Green Beans: Rinse the green beans, trim the ends, and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Season the Beans: In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Green Beans: Place the seasoned green beans in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Add the Almonds: In the final 2 minutes of cooking, add the slivered almonds to the basket to toast them. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the green beans and almonds to a serving dish. Drizzle with lemon juice (optional) and serve warm.
11. Air Fryer Cornbread Muffins
These cornbread muffins are buttery with a touch of sweetness, and the air fryer makes them golden and crisp on the outside. They pair wonderfully with any Thanksgiving dish, especially when slathered with honey butter.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins
Air Fryer Cornbread Muffins Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 egg
How to Make Air Fryer Cornbread Muffins
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and egg.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Fill the Molds: Grease silicone muffin molds and fill them ¾ full with the batter.
- Cook the Muffins: Place the muffin molds in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool slightly before removing them from the molds. Serve warm with butter or honey.
12. Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the tartness of cranberry sauce with the creaminess of melted Brie, all wrapped in flaky pastry. They make a delightful side or appetizer to kick off your holiday meal.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- ½ cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How to Make Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 2-inch squares.
- Assemble the Bites: Place a piece of Brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops of the bites with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Cook the Bites: Place the assembled bites in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bites cool for a minute or two before serving. They are best enjoyed warm when the Brie is gooey and melty.
13. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Bites
This fun twist on a classic sweet potato casserole packs the same flavors into bite-sized portions. With a crispy pecan topping, these bites are sweet, crunchy, and perfect for sharing.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Bites Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped pecans
- Mini marshmallows
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Bites
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture: In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Form the Bites: Scoop the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Press a few chopped pecans into each ball.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Bites: Place the sweet potato balls in the air fryer basket and cook for 12 minutes until slightly crispy on the outside.
- Add Marshmallows: In the last 2 minutes of cooking, top each bite with a mini marshmallow. Cook just until the marshmallows are golden and melted.
- Serve Warm: Carefully transfer the bites to a serving platter. These are best enjoyed warm when the marshmallows are gooey.
14. Air Fryer Ranch Carrots
These air fryer ranch carrots are bursting with flavor and make a healthy, flavorful side dish for any holiday table. The ranch seasoning adds a zesty, herby kick, while the air fryer ensures the carrots are tender on the inside with a caramelized, crispy exterior. This side dish is quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins
Air Fryer Ranch Carrots Ingredients
- 1 lb baby carrots (or regular carrots sliced into sticks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Air Fryer Ranch Carrots
- Prepare the Carrots: If using regular carrots, peel them and slice them into evenly sized sticks. Baby carrots can be used as is. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season the Carrots: In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the carrots are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Carrots: Place the seasoned carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your basket, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the Carrots: Air fry the carrots for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The carrots are done when they are tender and slightly browned on the edges.
- Check for Doneness: Pierce the largest carrot with a fork to ensure it’s tender. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for more caramelization.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
15. Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins
Crispy potato skins filled with melted cheese, bacon, and green onions are the ultimate comfort food. The air fryer gives them a perfect crispness without the need for deep frying. These loaded potato skins are sure to disappear quickly from your Thanksgiving table!
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins Ingredients
- 3 large baked potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup sour cream (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins
- Prepare the Potatoes: Cut the baked potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin.
- Season the Skins: Brush the potato skins with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Crisp the Skins: Place the potato skins in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Air fry for 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the basket and fill each potato skin with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the air fryer and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the potato skins to a plate and top with sour cream and chopped green onions. Serve warm.
16. Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Chips
These Parmesan zucchini chips are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. They make a light, healthy side dish or snack, perfect for balancing heavier Thanksgiving dishes. The air fryer gives them a beautiful golden crunch without excess oil.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 8 mins
Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Chips Ingredients
- 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil spray
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Chips
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash and thinly slice the zucchinis into even rounds.
- Coat the Zucchini: In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Dip each zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange in the Basket: Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil.
- Cook the Chips: Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove the zucchini chips from the air fryer and serve immediately with a dipping sauce of your choice.
17. Air Fryer Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash
This air-fried acorn squash is tender and caramelized with a hint of sweetness from the maple glaze. The squash adds a warm, autumnal touch to your Thanksgiving spread. It’s a healthy, flavorful side that’s easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the table.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins
Air Fryer Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash Ingredients
- 1 acorn squash, halved and sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
How to Make Air Fryer Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash
- Prepare the Squash: Slice the acorn squash into thin wedges, leaving the skin on for added texture and visual appeal.
- Coat with Glaze: In a bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Squash: Place the squash wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook the Squash: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the squash to a serving dish and drizzle with any remaining maple glaze.
18. Air Fryer Garlic Knots
Soft, buttery garlic knots with a hint of parsley are a must-have for any holiday meal. The air fryer makes them golden brown on the outside while keeping them fluffy inside. These knots are perfect for sopping up gravy or enjoying with a bowl of soup.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 8 mins
Air Fryer Garlic Knots Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tsp garlic powder ( I like to also add ground black garlic)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- Salt to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Knots
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into strips. Tie each strip into a loose knot.
- Brush with Butter: Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and brush it over the dough knots.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Knots: Place the garlic knots in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Add Parsley and Serve: Brush the warm knots with additional butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley and salt. Serve immediately.
19. Air Fryer Roasted Root Vegetables
A colorful medley of root vegetables roasted to perfection, this side dish brings earthy flavors and a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. The air fryer makes these veggies crisp on the outside while keeping them tender on the inside. Carrots, parsnips, beets, and sweet potatoes are enhanced with aromatic herbs, creating a side that complements any main course.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins
Air Fryer Roasted Root Vegetables Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
- 2 beet roots, peeled and cubed
- 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 red onion, quartered
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Roasted Root Vegetables
- Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and cut the carrots, parsnips, beets, sweet potato, and red onion into even pieces. Tip: To prevent the beets from bleeding their color onto the other vegetables, you can either toss them separately in their own bowl or cook them in a separate batch. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after handling the beets to avoid staining.
- Season the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Vegetables: Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your basket, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook the Vegetables: Air fry for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. The vegetables should be crispy on the edges and tender inside.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the roasted root vegetables to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
20. Air Fryer Crispy Baby Potatoes
These crispy baby potatoes are a must-have side dish that delivers a perfect blend of crunch and fluff. Air-fried to a golden brown, these potatoes are seasoned with garlic and herbs, making them a delicious addition to any Thanksgiving table. They’re simple to prepare and ideal for pairing with both roasted meats and vegetarian dishes.
Servings, Preparation, and Cooking Time
Serves: 6 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins
Air Fryer Crispy Baby Potatoes Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme (I like to use both)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for garnish ( this takes this side dish to new levels)
How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Baby Potatoes
- Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse the baby potatoes and pat them dry. Halve any larger potatoes so they are all similar in size for even cooking.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook the Potatoes: Air fry the potatoes for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check for Crispiness: The potatoes should be golden and crispy on the outside, with a soft interior. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.
- Optional Garnish: For extra flavor, toss the hot potatoes with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best texture. These potatoes are perfect on their own or served alongside any Thanksgiving main course.
These air fryer Thanksgiving sides bring variety and bold flavors to your holiday table without adding stress to your meal prep.