15 Must-Try Air Fryer Side Dishes for Thanksgiving

Let’s be real—oven space on Thanksgiving is a hot commodity. Between the turkey, stuffing, and pies, there’s barely room to breathe, let alone roast another side dish. That’s where the air fryer saves the day.

It turns out crispy, flavorful veggies and sides in a fraction of the time, and honestly, some of them taste even better this way. You can get those perfect golden edges on Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or even green beans without hovering over the stove.

Whether you’re hosting or just bringing a dish to share, these air fryer recipes will give your Thanksgiving table a little extra crunch—and one less thing fighting for oven space.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delightful side dish that combines the crispy goodness of Brussels sprouts with the savory flavor of bacon. The air fryer makes it super easy to achieve a perfectly cooked, golden-brown batch without the need for excess oil. This dish is not only simple to make but also brings a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor to your Thanksgiving table.

The combination of tender Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering side that pairs well with turkey and other festive dishes. It’s a great way to introduce a veggie that even non-vegetable lovers will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped bacon to the bowl and mix well to combine.
4. Place the Brussels sprouts and bacon mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and the bacon is cooked.
6. Serve warm as a delicious side dish!

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Air fryer sweet potato cubes are a delightful and simple side dish that brings a sweet and savory element to your Thanksgiving table. These cubes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. The air fryer allows you to achieve a perfectly cooked texture without the need for excessive oil, so you can feel good about serving them.

With just a few spices, you can enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. They are quick to make, requiring minimal prep time, which is perfect for busy holiday cooking. Serve them alongside your turkey and other festive dishes for a colorful and tasty addition to your meal!

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and thyme until evenly coated.
3. Place the seasoned sweet potato cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches if your air fryer is small.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are crispy and fork-tender.
5. Once done, remove them from the air fryer and serve warm as a delicious side dish!

Air Fryer Green Bean Fries

Air fryer green bean fries are a fun and crispy take on a classic vegetable. These fries are seasoned and coated in breadcrumbs, providing a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with your favorite dipping sauce. They make for a healthy yet indulgent side dish, adding a unique spin to your Thanksgiving table.

Making these fries is super simple and requires minimal ingredients. The air fryer cooks them to perfection, ensuring they’re crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. They’re a great way to enjoy green beans in a new way, and they’re sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by washing and trimming the green beans, ensuring they are bite-sized.
2. Make the Coating: In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In another bowl, beat the egg until frothy.
4. Coat the Beans: Dip each green bean into the egg wash, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
5. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
6. Serve: Once golden brown and crispy, remove from the air fryer and serve with your preferred dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Baby Potatoes With Rosemary

Air Fryer Baby Potatoes with Rosemary are a delightful side dish that perfectly compliments your Thanksgiving feast. These potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, infused with the aromatic flavor of fresh rosemary. The air fryer makes them super easy to prepare, reducing cooking time while ensuring a deliciously golden finish.

This recipe is not only simple but also requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for busy holiday cooking. With just a few steps, you can whip up these flavorful potatoes that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
4. Check for Doneness: The potatoes should be crispy and golden brown. If needed, cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
5. Serve: Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.

Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. These savory bites are filled with creamy cheese, garlic, and herbs, making them a perfect treat for mushroom lovers. They are simple to prepare and cook quickly in the air fryer, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying the holiday with loved ones.

With their crispy tops and tender mushroom caps, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress your guests. Plus, they are a fantastic way to add a bit of elegance to your spread without too much effort. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large mushrooms
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Finely chop the stems and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped mushroom stems, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure the filling stays in.
5. Lightly spray the stuffed mushrooms with olive oil for a golden finish.
6. Place the mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and heated through.
7. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Carrot Fries With Maple Glaze

Carrot fries are a fun and delicious side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. The air fryer turns these carrots into crispy, golden delights while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. With a drizzle of maple glaze, they become an irresistible treat that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up these tasty carrot fries that not only look great but also bring a unique twist to classic flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 large carrots, cut into fry shapes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the carrot fries with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well-coated.
3. Place the carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
4. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from the air fryer and serve warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup if desired.

Air Fryer Cauliflower With Parmesan Crust

Air Fryer Cauliflower with Parmesan Crust is a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving table. This dish combines the mild flavor of cauliflower with a crispy, cheesy topping that everyone will love. It’s simple to prepare and cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it a convenient side dish during the busy holiday season.

The combination of roasted garlic, olive oil, and grated Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the cauliflower. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sides or just want something delicious, this recipe fits the bill.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower florets, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is well-coated.
3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to evenly distribute the cheese.
4. Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy side!

Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Corn ribs are a fun twist on traditional corn on the cob. This recipe transforms sweet corn into bite-sized pieces that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Tossed with your favorite spices, they offer a delightful crunch paired with a juicy burst of flavor.

Making corn ribs in the air fryer is super easy and quick. Simply cut the corn, season it up, and let the air fryer do the work. Perfect for Thanksgiving, these corn ribs add a unique touch to your holiday spread!

Ingredients

• 2 large ears of corn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: grated cheese or butter for topping

Instructions

1. Prep the Corn: Start by carefully cutting each ear of corn into quarters, creating rib-like pieces.
2. Season: In a bowl, toss the corn pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Air Fry: Place the seasoned corn ribs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Serve: Once they’re golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Top with grated cheese or a pat of butter if desired, and enjoy!

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Bites

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Bites are the perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Their sweet, nutty flavor combined with a crispy exterior makes them a delightful addition to any table. Plus, they are super easy to make!

This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, allowing you to focus on the main dish. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a tasty treat that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh sage leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Add the squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.
5. Remove the squash bites and garnish with fresh sage leaves if desired. Serve warm.

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips With Dip

Air fryer zucchini chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a crunchy snack without the guilt of traditional chips. These chips are light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Plus, they’re super easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a healthy alternative to munch on while mingling with family and friends.

Pair your zucchini chips with a creamy dip for a delightful contrast in textures. You can customize the dip to suit your taste, whether you prefer something tangy or savory. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these zucchini chips as they add a fresh touch to your holiday table!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for dipping)
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like dill or parsley, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the zucchini is well coated.
3. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the chips are golden and crispy.
5. While the zucchini chips are cooking, prepare the dip by mixing the sour cream or Greek yogurt with fresh herbs if desired. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Once the chips are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving with the dip.

Air Fryer Apple Slices With Cinnamon

Air Fryer Apple Slices with Cinnamon are a delicious and healthy side dish perfect for Thanksgiving. The sweet, tender apples paired with a sprinkle of cinnamon create a warm and comforting flavor that everyone will love. This recipe is simple to make, making it a great choice for busy holiday prep.

These apple slices are not only easy to whip up, but they also provide a delightful crunch. The air fryer brings out the natural sweetness of the apples while adding a light crispness. Serve them warm alongside your turkey for a delightful contrast!

Ingredients

• 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples: Core the apples and slice them thinly. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar (if using) until evenly coated.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
3. Arrange the Slices: Place the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even cooking.
4. Cook: Air fry the apple slices for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are tender and slightly crispy.
5. Serve: Remove the apple slices from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a perfect side dish!

Air Fryer Broccoli With Lemon And Garlic

This air fryer broccoli dish is a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving table. With a bright, zesty flavor from lemon and a savory kick from garlic, this simple recipe turns broccoli into a delicious side that everyone will love.

Not only is it quick to prepare, but using the air fryer gives the broccoli a delightful crispiness without the need for excess oil. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy and tasty veggie!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss until the broccoli is well coated.
3. Place the seasoned broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is tender and has crispy edges.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.

Air Fryer Onion Petals

Air Fryer Onion Petals are a delightful twist on traditional onion rings. They offer a crispy, golden exterior with a sweet and tender interior that makes for a perfect side dish or snack. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means they are lighter and healthier than their deep-fried counterparts.

This recipe is simple and quick, making it an easy addition to your Thanksgiving table. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious treat that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, sliced into 1/4-inch thick petals
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions: Slice the onions into petal-shaped pieces, keeping them about 1/4-inch thick for even cooking.
2. Set Up Breading Stations: In one bowl, mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Onion Petals: Dip each onion petal into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each petal is fully covered.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Cook the Onion Petals: Arrange the breaded onion petals in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Air Fryer Onion Petals with your favorite dipping sauce!

Air Fryer Cranberry Brie Bites

Air fryer cranberry brie bites are a delightful treat that combines creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and flaky pastry. They are easy to make and perfect as a festive appetizer for any holiday gathering. With their rich flavors and crispy texture, these bites are sure to impress your guests.

Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also cook quickly in the air fryer, making them a great last-minute addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Whether you’re hosting or attending a potluck, these cranberry brie bites will be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 package of phyllo pastry cups
• 8 ounces brie cheese, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the phyllo pastry cups in the air fryer basket.
3. In each cup, add a piece of brie cheese, followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Drizzle honey over the top if desired.
4. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pastry is golden brown.
5. Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

Air Fryer Acorn Squash Slices

Air Fryer acorn squash slices are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, enhanced with just a touch of seasoning. The result is tender, caramelized slices that are both savory and sweet, making them a perfect complement to your holiday meal.

Making these slices is super easy and quick, thanks to the air fryer. You’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time without the need for long baking times. Plus, the air fryer gives them a lovely crispness that adds texture to your feast!

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash: Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Slice each half into wedges.
2. Season: In a large bowl, toss the squash slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. If you like a sweeter flavor, drizzle with maple syrup.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender and golden.
4. Serve: Remove the squash from the air fryer and enjoy warm! These slices are great on their own or can be served with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.