10 Easy One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Beginner Cooks

Cooking doesn’t have to be a messy experience, especially for beginners. These 10 one-pot and air fryer recipes are not only simple and quick to make, but they also keep cleanup to a minimum. Perfect for anyone looking to whip up delicious meals without the hassle, these recipes combine convenience with flavor, making your time in the kitchen enjoyable and stress-free.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic side dish that brings a crispy texture and a rich flavor to your table. With the perfect balance of garlic and parmesan, they make a delightful accompaniment to any meal. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them ideal for beginners.

Simply toss the Brussels sprouts in oil and seasonings, then let the air fryer do the magic. In just about 15 minutes, you’ll have perfectly roasted sprouts that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re not just tasty; they’re also a health-conscious choice that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss until the sprouts are evenly coated.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
5. Once done, transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot!

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a delicious twist on the classic fry. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Using an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunch without all the added oil, making them a healthier alternative that’s still oh-so-satisfying.

This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for beginners. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a tasty side dish or snack ready in no time. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into fry-shaped pieces, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
5. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove and let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon is a quick and delicious dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. The sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze perfectly complements the rich taste of the salmon, making it a favorite for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

This recipe is not only simple but also mess-free, thanks to the air fryer. In just about 15-20 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Serve it with your choice of sides for a complete dinner that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the top.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli and Quinoa

This One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli and Quinoa recipe is a delightful mix of flavor and nutrition. It brings together tender broccoli, protein-packed quinoa, and a cheesy goodness that makes it irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is simple to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it a great choice for beginners.

The combination of textures and tastes creates a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, with just one pot needed, you can focus more on enjoying your meal and less on washing dishes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
3. After 15 minutes, stir in the broccoli florets, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover again and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
4. Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
5. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, mix everything together, and serve warm. Enjoy!

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is the perfect dish for beginners. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, which means cleanup is a breeze!

With a delightful blend of tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy sauce, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal without any fuss.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (like linguine or fettuccine)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Mix in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!

Air Fryer Crispy Vegetable Fritters

These air fryer crispy vegetable fritters are a delightful way to enjoy your veggies. They are light, crunchy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect snack or side dish. The recipe is straightforward, making it easy for beginners to whip up a batch in no time.

With a mix of fresh vegetables, a hint of spices, and a crispy exterior, these fritters are sure to impress. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer means you can enjoy the crunch without the extra oil. They’re fantastic served with your favorite dipping sauce, offering a healthy and delicious option for any meal!

Ingredients

• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for coating

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, carrot, bell pepper, and green onions. Squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean cloth or paper towel.
2. Mix the Batter: Add the flour, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and forms a cohesive batter.
3. Shape the Fritters: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into patties.
4. Air Fry the Fritters: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the fritters in a single layer in the basket and spritz them with a little olive oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the fritters from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Herbs

This One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Herbs is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of aromatic herbs. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels both hearty and satisfying.

What makes this recipe a winner for beginners is its simplicity. With just one pot, you’ll have minimal cleanup while still delivering a delicious, homemade meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to your liking.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add the rice, stirring to coat it in the oil and mix with the onions and garlic.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

One-Pot Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe makes a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes creates a deliciously aromatic pasta that will impress without overwhelming you in the kitchen.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also mess-free, making it ideal for beginners. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, and it uses just one pot! It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Toss the Pasta: Add the drained spaghetti back into the pot. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic oil, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Air fryer stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and healthy meal with minimal effort. These colorful peppers are packed with a savory filling, often made from rice, veggies, and spices, which gives them a delightful taste that everyone will love. Plus, they cook quickly in the air fryer, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Not only are they simple to make, but they’re also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables. The peppers turn tender while the filling becomes warm and flavorful. It’s a one-pot wonder that leaves you with less mess and more time to enjoy your meal!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set them aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the rice mixture, packing it down lightly. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
4. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed peppers in the basket and cook for about 12-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
5. Serve: Remove the peppers from the air fryer and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

One-Pot Lentil Soup with Vegetables

This One-Pot Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Filled with hearty lentils and vibrant vegetables, it’s both healthy and comforting. The dish is simple to make, requiring minimal effort while maximizing flavor, making it perfect for beginners.

The combination of spices, along with the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creates a savory, well-rounded taste. Plus, you’ll love how it requires only one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, and paprika, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.