Crunch without grease makes appetizers even more tempting. Every recipe here gets that golden texture using just the air fryer—perfect for parties or snack cravings. Expect finger foods that stay light yet satisfying, from cheesy bites to seasoned vegetables. The result is crisp outside, juicy inside, and ready fast. Air-fried appetizers make entertaining easier and delicious.

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

A tray of tater tots topped with melted cheese, chopped green onions, and sauce served on parchment paper delivers crisp flavor—perfect as Air Fryer Appetizers without the oil, alongside plates, forks, and a floral napkin.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

These Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots bring restaurant flavor right to your kitchen. Crispy golden tater tots are topped with savory steak, melty cheese, and peppers for a hearty bite in every forkful. It’s the perfect game-day or comfort food snack. A fun, shareable dish that tastes like takeout without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer lumpia delivers the crunch of Filipino Lumpiang Shanghai with less oil and grease. Each roll comes out crisp, golden, and flavorful, making it perfect for parties or everyday cravings. It’s a lighter take on a beloved classic without sacrificing texture or taste. A simple, satisfying appetizer you’ll want to make often.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Panko Shrimp with cilantro lime dressing and parsley on a white plate.
Air Fryer Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Air fryer panko shrimp cook up crispy and golden in just minutes. They make a great appetizer or light main dish, especially when you want something flavorful but not heavy. The panko coating adds delicious crunch without deep-frying. Quick, easy, and ideal for weeknight cravings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Calamari

A plate of breaded and baked calamari rings garnished with chopped parsley, served with lemon wedges—enjoy this air fryer appetizer for crisp flavor without the oil.
Air Fryer Calamari. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Air fryer calamari gives you restaurant-style crunch with far less oil. The breading turns crisp and golden in under 20 minutes, making it a great last-minute appetizer. It’s light, flavorful, and simple enough for everyday cooking. A healthier way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Calamari

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.
Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bacon-wrapped onion rings offer a sweet, smoky, and savory twist on a classic appetizer. Each bite delivers crisp bacon wrapped around tender onion, creating a flavor combo that stands out. Great for game day or party trays. Unique, satisfying, and fun to serve.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Air Fryer Tostones (Plantains)

Plate of tostones and salsa.
Air Fryer Tostones (Plantains). Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

These air fryer tostones are a lighter, crisp version of a classic Caribbean favorite. They’re perfect for dipping, snacking, or even using as a substitute for chips or buns. Great for Whole30 or anytime you want a healthier choice. Simple, satisfying, and deliciously versatile.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tostones (Plantains)

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Zucchini chips without breading made in the air fryer in a bowl on a wooden plate.
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer zucchini chips are light, crispy, and seasoned with savory garlic flavor. With no breading needed, they come together quickly and make a guilt-free snack or side. Perfect for satisfying crunchy cravings without extra oil. Addictive, easy, and ideal for veggie lovers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Bacon Wrapped Crackers

Fingers holding a bacon wrapped crackers.
Bacon Wrapped Crackers. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Bacon wrapped crackers are salty, crunchy, and packed with savory flavor. The crackers crisp up beautifully in the air fryer while the bacon turns golden and irresistible. They’re incredibly simple yet surprisingly addictive. Perfect for parties or holiday snacking.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Crackers

Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Peppers

Plate of pizza peppers and marinara sauce.
Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Peppers. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Air fryer pepperoni pizza peppers take classic pizza flavors and transform them into a low-carb bite. The peppers soften while the cheese melts and the pepperoni becomes crisp around the edges. They’re great for appetizers, snacks, or meal prep. A fun way to enjoy pizza without the crust.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Peppers

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of jalapeño poppers on a table.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer jalapeño poppers are spicy, creamy, and wonderfully crisp. The peppers soften just enough while the cheesy filling melts perfectly inside. They make a standout appetizer for parties or weekend snacking. Bold flavor with less grease than traditional fried versions.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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