10 Quick and Delicious One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Busy Nights

If you’re looking to whip up meals without spending hours in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat! Here are 10 easy one-pot and air fryer recipes that will save you time and keep clean-up a breeze. From hearty dinners to quick snacks, these recipes are perfect for anyone wanting delicious results without the fuss.

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Bites

Crispy tofu bites are a delightful, easy-to-make snack or side dish that packs a punch of flavor without the fuss. Perfectly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, these bites are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. They make a fantastic addition to salads, wraps, or can be enjoyed as a tasty appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

This recipe is beginner-friendly and only requires a few ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and savory taste of these crispy tofu bites in no time!

Ingredients

• 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate: Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Coat with Cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and mix gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Serve: Remove the tofu from the air fryer and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sauce!

Air Fryer Vegetable Spring Rolls

Air fryer vegetable spring rolls are a delightful, crispy treat that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Packed with fresh veggies, these rolls are a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet while satisfying your snack cravings. The air fryer makes them crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option.

Perfect for appetizers or a light meal, these spring rolls are versatile and can be customized to include your favorite vegetables. Serve them with a sweet chili dipping sauce for a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup chopped lettuce
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded carrots, chopped lettuce, sliced bell peppers, cucumber, cilantro, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Soften the Wrappers: Dip each rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10-15 seconds until soft. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
3. Fill the Rolls: Place a small amount of the vegetable mixture in the center of each wrapper. Fold the sides in and roll tightly to seal.
4. Air Fry the Rolls: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the spring rolls with cooking spray and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve: Enjoy your spring rolls hot with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping!

One-Pot Lemon Herb Quinoa

One-Pot Lemon Herb Quinoa is a bright and zesty dish that’s perfect for a quick meal. This recipe combines fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon, creating a refreshing flavor that pairs well with a variety of proteins or can stand alone as a nutritious vegetarian option.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just one pot, meaning less cleanup time. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prep, ensuring you have a flavorful, healthy side or main dish ready to go!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast for about 2 minutes.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and chives. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Let it rest for a few minutes, then fluff with a fork and serve warm!

One-Pot Spicy Chickpea Stew

This One-Pot Spicy Chickpea Stew is a simple and cozy dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dining table. Packed with tender chickpeas, vibrant vegetables, and a kick of spice, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The best part? You can whip it up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

The stew has a rich, hearty texture that warms you from the inside out. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, with spices that dance on your palate. It’s nutritious, filling, and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic, red bell pepper, and carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
4. Mix in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Air fryer stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and vibrant dish that combines fresh vegetables with a savory filling. They offer a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making them a satisfying meal for any occasion. The air fryer cooks them to perfection, creating a tender exterior with a slightly crispy edge.

This recipe is simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize the filling with your favorite grains, proteins, and spices, making it a versatile choice for any palate.

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 cup cooked ground meat (beef, turkey, or plant-based alternative)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice or quinoa, ground meat, onion, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each pepper with the mixture, packing it down gently. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
4. Cook the Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
5. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your flavorful stuffed bell peppers!

One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Pasta

This One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Pasta is a simple and delicious meal that combines the goodness of broccoli with creamy pasta. The flavors blend beautifully, making it a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how the cheese melts into the pasta, creating a rich and savory experience.

Not only is this recipe easy to throw together, but it also requires minimal cleanup since it’s all cooked in one pot. It’s a kid-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta of your choice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the pasta and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
3. Once the pasta is cooked and the broccoli is tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your easy, cheesy meal!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are a delicious and simple treat that packs a punch of flavor. The crispy exterior, combined with the rich garlic and parmesan seasoning, makes these wings perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in.

What’s great about this recipe is that it saves time while delivering incredible taste—no deep frying necessary! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip these up in your air fryer, resulting in juicy, flavorful wings that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until wings are evenly coated.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
3. Air Fry the Wings: Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
4. Add Parmesan: Once done, remove the wings and immediately toss them in grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto

This One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a cozy dish that brings warmth and rich flavors to your table. The creamy texture combined with the earthy taste of mushrooms makes each bite a delight. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Risotto is known for its comforting qualities, and this version is no exception. With just a few ingredients and a single pot, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or shiitake)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they are tender.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the pot, stirring for about 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. If using, pour in the white wine, stirring until it has mostly evaporated.
5. Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding more.
6. Once the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes), stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

One-Pot Tomato Basil Risotto

One-pot tomato basil risotto is a simple yet delightful dish that bursts with flavors. It’s creamy, comforting, and ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a fresh taste that takes your taste buds on a delightful journey.

This recipe makes preparing dinner a breeze, as everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup. It’s perfect for anyone looking to whip up a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for about 2 minutes until slightly golden. This step adds a nutty flavor.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth gradually, one cup at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the rice to absorb the broth before adding the next cup.
4. When the rice is al dente, mix in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, stir in the Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips

Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Chips are a delightful and healthy snack that’s super simple to make. The crispiness of the apple slices combined with a sprinkle of cinnamon creates a sweet treat that satisfies cravings without the guilt. Perfect for munching on during movie night or as a quick afternoon pick-me-up, these chips are both tasty and satisfying.

What’s great about this recipe is how quick and easy it is. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a batch of crunchy apple chips ready to enjoy. Plus, they make for a wonderful homemade gift!

Ingredients

• 2 large apples (any variety)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
2. Core and thinly slice the apples, aiming for about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar (if using) until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
5. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.
6. Let the chips cool before enjoying; they will crisp up even more as they cool.