20+ Easy Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes: Your Ultimate Guide for a Stress-Free Holiday Feast
If you’re planning a more intimate Thanksgiving gathering this year, or simply need to free up precious space in your main oven, then get ready for some truly fantastic news! We’re bringing you an incredible collection of over 20 easy and delicious air fryer Thanksgiving recipes. From mouth-watering appetizers and hearty side dishes to flavorful main courses and delightful desserts, you can prepare nearly every component of your holiday meal right in your versatile countertop air fryer. Say goodbye to oven Tetris and hello to a smoother, more efficient cooking experience!
Why Your Air Fryer is a Thanksgiving Game-Changer
Utilizing your air fryer for Thanksgiving dishes offers a wealth of benefits that can transform your holiday cooking experience from stressful to remarkably simple. Here are the key reasons why this compact appliance is my go-to every year for festive meals:
Unmatched Time-Saving Capabilities
Air fryers excel at both preheating and cooking food significantly faster than conventional ovens. This efficiency drastically reduces the overall time you spend in the kitchen, a huge advantage during the Thanksgiving rush when every minute counts. Imagine dishes ready in half the time, allowing you more moments to enjoy with loved ones.
Achieve Perfectly Crispier Textures
Thanks to its rapid air circulation technology, the air fryer delivers an incredibly crisp exterior to foods with minimal oil. This means your turkey breast, roasted vegetables, and even stuffing can achieve that coveted golden, crunchy crust, all while maintaining a moist, tender, and intensely flavorful interior. No more soggy sides!
Boost Kitchen Efficiency and Free Up Oven Space
When your main oven is monopolized by the star turkey or large casseroles, the air fryer steps in as an invaluable additional cooking appliance. It effectively frees up critical oven space, allowing you to multitask and prepare various side dishes or appetizers simultaneously. This prevents bottlenecks and ensures all your dishes are ready around the same time.
Incredible Versatility for Every Course
Don’t underestimate the air fryer’s adaptability. It can handle an impressive array of Thanksgiving fare, from sophisticated appetizers like baked Brie and charming deviled eggs to succulent main dishes such as turkey tenderloin, and even delightful desserts like classic pumpkin pie. This single appliance can truly contribute to every stage of your holiday menu.
Ideal for Smaller Gatherings or Diverse Palates
For those hosting a smaller group, or when not everyone at the table enjoys the same dishes, the air fryer is perfect for preparing individualized portions or smaller quantities of specific sides. This allows you to cater to different tastes without committing to a full-sized dish, ensuring everyone’s preferences are met. It’s also fantastic for easily reheating leftovers the next day, keeping them as delicious as fresh.
With these compelling advantages in mind, let’s dive into some truly tasty air fryer Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to impress!
Quick + Easy Recipes
straight to your inbox
Check out these Pumpkin Deviled Eggs
Did you know your air fryer can perfectly “boil” eggs, making them ideal for deviled eggs? It takes roughly the same time as stovetop methods, but without the hassle of a dirty pot or constant monitoring! Deviled eggs are consistently one of the most popular Thanksgiving appetizers, and this adorable pumpkin-shaped version elevates them to a new level of festivity. Don’t worry, there’s no actual pumpkin in the recipe! The classic, creamy filling is tinted with paprika and then artfully shaped to resemble mini pumpkins, finished with a fresh chive stem for a realistic touch. It’s an ideal air fryer Thanksgiving recipe to kick off your holiday celebration with a creative flair!
If you’re looking to continue the pumpkin theme into dessert, be sure to explore my no-bake Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats for a fun and easy sweet option!
Check out this Cranberry Baked Brie recipe
For an appetizer that looks incredibly elegant yet is surprisingly simple to prepare for Thanksgiving, you’ll absolutely adore this cranberry baked Brie. The best part? It cooks in just 10 minutes in your air fryer, saving you at least 5 minutes compared to a traditional oven (and that’s not even counting preheating time!). This warm, gooey cheese is beautifully topped with sweet cranberry sauce – a perfect use for any leftover cranberry sauce you might have after the big meal! – along with crunchy walnuts for an appealing textural contrast. It’s fantastic for spreading on crispy crackers (rosemary ones are a personal favorite), fresh apple slices, or any other dippers you enjoy.
If you prefer your appetizers in a convenient, bite-sized format, then you must try my Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites, which feature this classic combination wrapped in flaky puff pastry!
Check out these Air Fryer Smoked Turkey Wings
Whether you choose to serve them as a hearty appetizer or as a distinct component of your main course, these air fryer smoked turkey wings are an outstanding addition to your Thanksgiving menu! The process is incredibly straightforward: simply season your smoked turkey wings with your favorite spice blend – a zesty jerk seasoning is highly recommended for a vibrant kick – and then air fry them until the skin becomes delightfully crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. For an extra burst of flavor, serve them alongside a complementary dipping sauce, such as a refreshing cilantro lime sauce to perfectly balance the jerk seasoning.
These wings make a fantastic snack or appetizer, and they’re also an excellent alternative if you’re serving a main dish other than a whole turkey, but still want to include a nod to traditional holiday poultry. For a delicious vegetarian-friendly option, consider my Air Fryer Frozen Cauliflower Wings!
Check out this Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin recipe
This air fryer turkey tenderloin is so remarkably easy to prepare that you could genuinely enjoy it on a busy weeknight! However, its elegant presentation and delicious flavor also make it perfectly suited for the Thanksgiving table, especially when you’re cooking for a smaller gathering of 2-4 people rather than a large crowd. You have the convenience of choosing pre-marinated tenderloins from your local grocery store, or you can opt to season your own with a custom blend of herbs and spices. Either way, in just around 20 minutes (depending on the exact size and thickness), you’ll have an astonishingly good turkey tenderloin that’s beautifully browned on the outside and wonderfully juicy on the inside.
Check out these Turkey Breast Cutlets in the Air Fryer
Searching for an even quicker main course option than a turkey tenderloin this holiday season? These incredibly easy air fryer turkey breast cutlets are your perfect solution! They cook up to be wonderfully juicy and delicious in just 10 minutes or less, making for an unbelievably simple yet satisfying main course for your Thanksgiving meal. Turkey cutlets are essentially the poultry equivalent of boneless pork chops, presenting an ideal choice when you’re cooking for just 1-2 people. Honestly, they are so quick and convenient that I frequently prepare them on busy weeknights too! Serve them with your favorite classic Thanksgiving sides for a complete and effortless meal that’s absolutely worthy of your holiday table.
Get The Recipe
While turkey is undeniably the most traditional meat served for Thanksgiving, it’s always a wonderful idea to have delicious alternative options available, such as this fantastic air fryer chuck roast. You can achieve a perfect medium-rare to medium doneness in just slightly over an hour, significantly cutting down on cooking time compared to a traditional oven while still delivering an equally delicious and tender result! This elegant-looking beef roast requires only 5 simple ingredients, giving you the flexibility to customize the seasonings to your personal liking or to perfectly complement the other dishes on your holiday table. Speaking of which, chuck roast pairs exceptionally well with all the classic Thanksgiving side dishes, including creamy potatoes, savory roasted vegetables, and even traditional stuffing!
Check out this Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole recipe
Speaking of classic Thanksgiving side dishes, you’ll be thrilled to know that your beloved green bean casserole can be prepared effortlessly in the air fryer too! This comforting dish is generously loaded with green beans (feel free to use canned, frozen, or freshly cooked), a rich and creamy soup base, a blend of savory seasonings, and, of course, a crowning layer of crispy fried onions. The absolute best part? It cooks up in an astonishingly quick 15 minutes – it truly doesn’t get any more convenient than that when you’re managing multiple holiday dishes!
If you’re eager to try something new this year (and perhaps even more convenient), consider my Air Fryer Bird’s Eye Crispy Green Beans, which offer a breaded, delightfully crispy version ready in under 10 minutes!
Get The Recipe
If the idea of a unique twist on fries for Thanksgiving piques your interest, then you’ll definitely want to give these air fryer pumpkin fries a try! These irresistibly crispy fries are crafted from fresh pie pumpkin, expertly cut and seasoned with your choice of herbs and spices. This allows you to fully customize them to perfectly complement the other flavors present in your holiday meal. Once beautifully browned and crisped to your preference, be sure to sprinkle on some finishing salt for optimal flavor. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice – pumpkin pairs wonderfully with sweet cinnamon, honey, or maple-based dips, as well as spicier chipotle or curry mayo, or even earthy ginger or sage-infused sauces for a truly gourmet experience.
Check out these Air Fryer Butternut Squash Slices
Staying within the delicious realm of squash, these air fryer butternut squash slices present a truly delightful and elegant Thanksgiving side dish option! Simply season the squash slices exactly to your liking – whether with a hint of sweetness or a savory blend – and roast them in your air fryer for just 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. To create a stunning and flavorful presentation, top them with seasonal favorites like crunchy walnuts, tart cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and fragrant fresh thyme. This combination results in a dish that not only looks sophisticated but also explodes with exquisite holiday flavors.
If squash slices aren’t quite what you’re craving, why not try my crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries, a comforting and creamy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Soup, or explore any of my other Best Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipes for more inspiration!
Get The Recipe
Parsnips, often an underrated root vegetable, truly shine and make for an elegant and flavorful air fryer Thanksgiving side dish option! Even when cut into long, elegant spears, they roast up perfectly tender with slightly caramelized edges in under 20 minutes. This makes them a wonderfully quick option that absolutely doesn’t compromise on rich, earthy flavor. Parsnips also harmonize beautifully with many classic Thanksgiving flavors, such as aromatic thyme and the sweet notes of maple syrup. This ensures they’ll integrate seamlessly and deliciously with the rest of your festive spread, adding a touch of sophisticated sweetness to your holiday plate.
Check out this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole recipe
Another absolutely classic Thanksgiving side dish that you can easily make in your air fryer is this irresistible sweet potato casserole, complete with fluffy toasted marshmallows! Canned yams are lovingly mixed with your favorite sweet additions, such as rich brown sugar, fragrant cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup, creating a side dish so delightful it could almost double as dessert! Plus, thanks to the air fryer’s rapid cooking capabilities, it’s ready in only about 15 minutes. Finish this festive dish with a generous topping of perfectly toasted brown marshmallows and crunchy pecans for an extra layer of texture and sweetness that everyone will adore.
If you prefer your sweet potatoes in a form other than mashed, my Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes feature an entire sweet potato, artfully sliced and loaded with maple syrup, cinnamon, crunchy pecans, and a subtle hint of chili powder for a touch of warmth. This side dish looks incredibly elegant, but is actually surprisingly easy to prepare!
Check out this Air Fryer Candied Yams recipe
Craving something on the sweeter side but prefer to avoid the mushy texture of a traditional sweet potato casserole? Then these air fryer candied yams might just be the ideal choice for your Thanksgiving table! Simply cube up some tender yams, generously toss them with rich brown sugar, melted butter, and a blend of warm, inviting spices, then air fry them to absolute perfection in a mere 20 minutes. These beautifully roasted potatoes emerge tender on the inside, with wonderfully browned, caramelized edges, and a luscious, slightly sticky sauce that is guaranteed to be the talk of your holiday meal!
For a less sweet yet equally appealing alternative, check out my Air Fryer Beets and Sweet Potatoes, a vibrant dish that expertly utilizes seasonal root vegetables for a side that is not only delicious and visually stunning but also bursting with savory flavors!
Get The Recipe
When it comes to delectable side dishes with a delightful touch of sweetness, these air fryer maple glazed carrots are yet another perfect choice for your Thanksgiving table! The carrots roast up beautifully and tender-crisp in your air fryer in a mere 10 minutes, with their natural caramelized sweetness harmonizing perfectly with the rich notes of maple syrup, fragrant herbs, and savory seasonings of your choosing. Roasted carrots are also a highly customizable dish, allowing you to easily adjust the seasonings to match your personal taste preferences or to flawlessly complement the other wonderful flavors you’re serving on your holiday table.
Check out this Air Fryer Southern Cornbread Dressing recipe
Stuffing, often lovingly referred to as dressing, is an absolute Thanksgiving staple, and it’s another fantastic side dish you can effortlessly create in your air fryer! This Southern-style cornbread dressing recipe features a base of crumbled cornbread instead of traditional bread cubes, combined with sautéed onions, crisp celery, and a generous blend of savory seasonings to truly deliver an explosion of comforting flavor. Bake it to golden perfection in your air fryer in just 20 minutes, yielding a version of stuffing that’s ready in 30 minutes or less, including prep time. Now that’s what we call holiday convenience!
Get The Recipe
For a more classic stuffing preparation that’s rich with both sweet and savory flavors, you absolutely must try this air fryer whiskey, sausage, and cranberry stuffing! It’s generously loaded with flavorful cubes of French bread, a hint of warming whiskey, sweet dried cranberries, savory pork sausage, and all your favorite Thanksgiving herbs like fragrant sage, aromatic rosemary, and fresh parsley. The result is a truly remarkable savory flavor explosion that complements any holiday feast! Best of all, once assembled, this incredible stuffing only requires 15 minutes to cook to perfection in your air fryer. I can confidently say I’ll never go back to making stuffing in the oven now that I’ve discovered how incredibly convenient the air fryer makes it!
Get The Recipe
Crescent rolls are a tried-and-true bread option that graces many Thanksgiving tables, and they’re made even simpler and faster thanks to your air fryer! I absolutely love the sheer convenience of just popping open a can of dough, quickly rolling them into shape, and tossing them into the air fryer to cook. These crescents emerge beautifully golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining wonderfully flaky and tender on the inside – precisely what you desire from your freshly baked rolls. The best part is that the air fryer has them ready in just 10 minutes, saving you valuable oven space (and an extra baking pan) in your main oven, all while producing an equally delicious result that will have everyone reaching for more!
Get The Recipe
Undoubtedly one of the most classic and beloved desserts you can serve at Thanksgiving is the iconic pumpkin pie. But did you know you can bake it to perfection right in your air fryer? Yes, you can! You can bake a whole pumpkin pie in your air fryer, and it only takes approximately 20 minutes! Talk about incredible time savings when compared to a traditional oven, especially when your oven is in high demand. This specific recipe includes instructions for a flaky homemade crust and a rich, creamy, perfectly spiced pumpkin filling, yielding enough to make two pies in total – perfect for feeding a crowd!
Note: You will need a basket or oven-style air fryer that’s large enough to comfortably hold a standard pie plate, so it’s always a good idea to measure in advance! However, if you find yourself short on space, you can always whip up some delicious Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies for a equally delightful, individually portioned dessert!
Check out these Mini Crustless Cranberry Pies
Looking for a delightful alternative to the traditional pumpkin pie this year? Consider these charming mini crustless cranberry pies instead, easily baked to perfection in your air fryer! They strike the ideal balance of sweet and tart, featuring a light, cake-like almond batter that beautifully envelops fresh, vibrant cranberries bursting with flavor. This mini version bakes up wonderfully in just 15 minutes in your air fryer, making it a fantastic option if you have a Dual Zone air fryer or a smaller basket to work with. Alternatively, you can combine the entire recipe into a 9-inch tart pan to create one larger, stunning dessert – the choice is yours, but it’s guaranteed to be delicious either way!
Get The Recipe
For a fun, bite-sized dessert option that’s always a crowd-pleaser, look no further than these irresistible air fryer pumpkin donut holes! They are infused with warm, aromatic spices and plenty of rich pumpkin flavor, truly embodying the essence of fall and Thanksgiving. Once the dough is effortlessly prepped, each batch takes a mere 6 minutes to cook to golden perfection in your air fryer. After cooking, they get a delightful toss in a sweet cinnamon and sugar mixture for an extra burst of flavor, or you can opt for a simple glaze if you prefer. Kids and adults alike adore these perfectly portioned pumpkin treats, making them a wonderfully easy and enjoyable Thanksgiving dessert option, made even simpler thanks to your versatile air fryer!
Creative Thanksgiving Leftovers Recipes
Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls: Great Leftovers Recipe!
Chocolate Covered Cranberry Sauce: Thanksgiving Treat!
Air Fryer Turkey and Cheese Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
Air Fryer Hot Brown Sandwich: Best Leftover Turkey Recipe
Thanksgiving Hot Dogs: Easy Holiday Meal in the Air Fryer
Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipe FAQs
Can You Cook A Turkey In An Air Fryer?
Yes, absolutely, you can cook a turkey in an air fryer! However, it’s generally best suited for smaller portions like turkey breasts, tenderloins, or individual turkey legs. A whole turkey might not fit in a standard air fryer unless you have a very large capacity model or an oven with a built-in air fryer function. Air frying turkey consistently results in incredibly crispy skin and wonderfully juicy meat, making it a fantastic and efficient cooking method if your appliance can accommodate the size!
What Are The Best Air Fryer Side Dishes For Thanksgiving?
Some of the most popular and delicious air fryer Thanksgiving side dishes include beautifully roasted butternut squash, perfectly caramelized carrots or other root vegetables, sweet and savory sweet potatoes, crisp green beans, and flavorful stuffing or dressing. These dishes are not only quick and simple to prepare in the air fryer but also offer a uniquely crispy and appealing texture that adds wonderful variety and depth to your holiday meal!
Can You Make Thanksgiving Desserts In An Air Fryer?
Indeed, you can craft a variety of delightful Thanksgiving desserts in an air fryer! Options range from classic pumpkin pie and comforting apple crisp to charming mini hand pies. The air fryer delivers perfectly baked desserts with a gorgeous golden, crispy crust, all while significantly cutting down on the baking time compared to using a traditional oven. It’s an excellent way to prepare holiday sweets without monopolizing your main oven.
How Do You Reheat Thanksgiving Leftovers In The Air Fryer?
The air fryer is an absolutely superb tool for reheating Thanksgiving leftovers, such as tender turkey, savory stuffing, and flaky rolls, ensuring they taste as good as new! To reheat, set your air fryer to approximately 350°F (175°C) and heat for 3-5 minutes. It’s crucial to check frequently to prevent overcooking or drying out the food. This method is particularly fantastic because it revitalizes food with a crispy texture, rather than leaving it soggy as a microwave might.
Can You Make Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dishes In The Air Fryer?
Yes, absolutely! Many beloved Thanksgiving recipes can be effortlessly adapted to be gluten-free by utilizing appropriate substitutes like almond flour, gluten-free bread crumbs, or corn-based ingredients. Dishes such as roasted vegetables, turkey breast, and a variety of desserts are easily made safe for those with dietary restrictions. The air fryer can also be a particularly useful appliance for preparing and separating different dishes, which is ideal when accommodating varying dietary needs at your holiday table.
What Thanksgiving Appetizers Can Be Made In The Air Fryer?
The air fryer is perfect for whipping up a range of delectable Thanksgiving appetizers! Excellent choices include savory stuffed mushrooms, elegant bacon-wrapped dates, gooey baked brie, and charming deviled eggs. These appetizers cook incredibly quickly and consistently develop a desirable crispy texture, making them an ideal and efficient option for serving delicious pre-dinner snacks to your guests without any fuss.
Perfect Thanksgiving Cocktail Pairings
Pecan Pie Martini: Perfect Thanksgiving Cocktail!
Crownberry Apple: Simple 2 Ingredient Fall Cocktail!
Pumpkin Pie Martini With Vanilla Vodka and RumChata!
Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour: Easy Holiday Cocktail!
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes
Well, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to over 20 amazing air fryer Thanksgiving recipes you can confidently try this year! We’ve covered everything from delicious appetizers to impressive main courses, and comforting side dishes to irresistible desserts. This extensive collection proves just how versatile and indispensable the air fryer truly is for holiday cooking.
The air fryer is a true game-changer, consistently saving you valuable time and precious oven space while still consistently producing mouth-watering options for every course on your festive holiday table. Its efficiency allows you to enjoy the holiday more, spending less time tending to the kitchen and more time with family and friends.
Furthermore, I find the air fryer to be an absolutely brilliant option when you’re not catering to a massive crowd. You can easily scale recipes to make perfect portions for 2-4 people, allowing you to prepare an entire, cohesive meal without overwhelming your kitchen. It’s also fantastic for preparing smaller quantities of specific sides to please individual preferences, ensuring everyone at your table finds something they adore.
I sincerely hope that this diverse selection of air fryer Thanksgiving recipes has provided you with ample inspiration and excitement to help you create the most amazing and memorable Thanksgiving spread this year, no matter who you’re sharing it with!
