Top 27 Air Fryer Casserole Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Casseroles are a beloved comfort food, known for their convenience and heartiness. Traditionally baked in the oven, these dishes can now be prepared with a modern twist using an air fryer. Air fryers offer a quicker and healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods by using hot air circulation to achieve a crispy exterior without excess oil. In this article, we’ll explore 27 delicious and inventive air fryer casserole recipes that are sure to become family favorites.

Introduction To Air Fryer Casseroles

Casseroles have long been a staple in many households due to their simplicity and versatility. Typically made by layering ingredients such as meats, vegetables, starches, and cheeses, casseroles offer a complete meal in one dish. They are perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings since they can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready.

With the introduction of air fryers into modern kitchens, the possibilities for cooking casseroles have expanded even further. Air fryers use convection technology to circulate hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior while locking in moisture and flavor. This makes them an ideal tool for preparing casseroles, as they can achieve the same delicious results as traditional baking methods in a fraction of the time.

Top 27 Air Fryer Casserole Recipes

1. Classic Tater Tot Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Frozen tater tots
  • Ground beef
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Onion
• Instructions:
  1. Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet.
  2. Mix cooked beef, tater tots, soup, and half of the cheese in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with remaining cheese.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

2. Broccoli And Cheese Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Fresh broccoli florets
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Cream of broccoli soup
  • Bread crumbs
• Instructions:
  1. Steam broccoli until tender-crisp.
  2. Mix broccoli, cheese, and soup in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
  4. Air fry at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and breadcrumbs are golden brown.

3. Chicken And Rice Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked chicken, shredded
  • Cooked rice
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth
  • Frozen mixed vegetables
• Instructions:
  1. Combine chicken, rice, soup, broth, and vegetables in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

4. Spinach And Artichoke Dip Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • Canned artichoke hearts, chopped
  • Cream cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Parmesan cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Mix spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Air fry at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

5. Mexican Tortilla Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Tortilla chips
  • Cooked chicken or beef, shredded
  • Black beans
  • Corn
  • Salsa
  • Mexican cheese blend
• Instructions:
  1. Layer tortilla chips, chicken or beef, beans, corn, salsa, and cheese in an air fryer-safe dish.
  2. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallow Topping

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Mini marshmallows
• Instructions:
  1. Mix sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with marshmallows.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.

7. Macaroni And Cheese Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked macaroni
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Milk
  • Butter
  • Flour
• Instructions:
  1. Make a roux by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour.
  2. Gradually add milk and cook until thickened.
  3. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and transfer to an air fryer-safe dish.
  5. Air fry at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

8. Sausage And Egg Breakfast Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Bread, cubed
  • Cheddar cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Whisk eggs and milk together in a bowl.
  2. Stir in sausage, bread, and cheese.
  3. Pour mixture into an air fryer-safe dish.
  4. Air fry at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until set and golden brown.

9. Potato And Ham Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Potatoes, thinly sliced
  • Cooked ham, diced
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Onion
  • Sour cream
• Instructions:
  1. Layer potatoes, ham, cheese, and onion in an air fryer-safe dish.
  2. Dollop sour cream on top.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.

10. Vegetarian Quinoa Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Black beans
  • Corn
  • Bell peppers, diced
  • Salsa
  • Mexican cheese blend
• Instructions:
  1. Mix quinoa, beans, corn, peppers, salsa, and cheese in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

11. Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Eggplant, sliced
  • Marinara sauce
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Bread crumbs
• Instructions:
  1. Dip eggplant slices in marinara sauce, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  2. Layer eggplant slices in an air fryer-safe dish, alternating with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Green Bean Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Fresh green beans, trimmed
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • French fried onions
  • Milk
• Instructions:
  1. Blanch green beans in boiling water, then drain.
  2. Mix green beans, soup, and milk in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with fried onions.
  4. Air fry at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through and onions are crispy.

13. Italian Sausage And Pasta Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Italian sausage, sliced
  • Cooked pasta
  • Marinara sauce
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Cook sausage in a skillet until browned.
  2. Mix sausage, pasta, sauce, and cheeses in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

14. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cauliflower florets
  • Cream cheese
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Bread crumbs
• Instructions:
  1. Steam cauliflower until tender-crisp.
  2. Mix cauliflower, cream cheese, cheddar, and garlic powder in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs.
  4. Air fry at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and breadcrumbs are golden brown.

15. Buffalo Chicken Dip Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked chicken, shredded
  • Cream cheese
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Ranch dressing
  • Cheddar cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Mix chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with cheddar cheese.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

16. Beef And Bean Enchilada Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Ground beef
  • Enchilada sauce
  • Black beans
  • Corn tortillas
  • Cheddar cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Brown beef in a skillet, then stir in enchilada sauce, beans, and corn.
  2. Layer tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

17. Zucchini And Tomato Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Zucchini, sliced
  • Tomatoes, sliced
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Basil leaves
  • Olive oil
• Instructions:
  1. Layer zucchini and tomatoes in an air fryer-safe dish.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with basil.
  3. Top with mozzarella cheese.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender and cheese is melted.

18. Crab And Corn Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Lump crabmeat
  • Corn kernels
  • Cream cheese
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Bread crumbs
• Instructions:
  1. Mix crabmeat, corn, cream cheese, and Old Bay seasoning in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs.
  3. Air fry at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

19. Mushroom And Wild Rice Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Wild rice, cooked
  • Mushrooms, sliced
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Sour cream
• Instructions:
  1. Sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
  2. Mix cooked rice, mushroom mixture, and sour cream in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

20. Hawaiian Pineapple Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Pineapple chunks
  • Ham, diced
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter
  • Ritz crackers
• Instructions:
  1. Layer pineapple and ham in an air fryer-safe dish.
  2. Sprinkle with brown sugar.
  3. Melt butter and mix with crushed Ritz crackers.
  4. Spread cracker mixture over pineapple and ham.
  5. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

21. Caprese Pasta Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked pasta
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Fresh mozzarella, diced
  • Basil leaves, torn
  • Balsamic glaze
• Instructions:
  1. Mix pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

22. Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked chicken, diced
  • Steamed broccoli florets
  • Alfredo sauce
  • Cooked pasta
  • Parmesan cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Mix chicken, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, and pasta in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and sprinkle with Parmesan.
  3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

23. Tuna Noodle Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cooked egg noodles
  • Canned tuna, drained
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Frozen peas
  • Bread crumbs
• Instructions:
  1. Mix noodles, tuna, soup, and peas in a bowl.
  2. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish and top with breadcrumbs.
  3. Air fry at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and breadcrumbs are golden brown.

24. Chili Cornbread Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Chili
  • Cornbread batter
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Green onions
• Instructions:
  1. Spread chili in an air fryer-safe dish.
  2. Pour cornbread batter over chili.
  3. Sprinkle with cheese and green onions.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cornbread is cooked through and golden brown.

25. Sloppy Joe Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Ground beef
  • Sloppy Joe sauce
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Biscuit dough
• Instructions:
  1. Brown beef in a skillet, then stir in sloppy Joe sauce.
  2. Transfer beef mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Top with cheese and biscuit dough.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until biscuits are golden brown.

26. Artichoke And Spinach Stuffed Chicken Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Chicken breasts
  • Frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • Canned artichoke hearts, chopped
  • Cream cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Cut a slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket.
  2. Mix spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and Parmesan in a bowl.
  3. Stuff each chicken breast with spinach mixture.
  4. Transfer stuffed chicken breasts to an air fryer-safe dish.
  5. Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

27. Pesto Tortellini Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • Cheese tortellini
  • Pesto sauce
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Mozzarella cheese
• Instructions:
  1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
  2. Mix cooked tortellini, pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a bowl.
  3. Transfer mixture to an air fryer-safe dish.
  4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, providing a convenient and healthy alternative to traditional methods. By adapting classic casserole recipes for the air fryer, we can enjoy the same comforting flavors and textures in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re craving a cheesy pasta bake or a hearty meat and potato dish, there’s an air fryer casserole recipe to satisfy every craving. Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own signature dishes, and enjoy the convenience and versatility of cooking casseroles in your air fryer.

Top 10 Global Flavors

Casseroles are a beloved comfort food in many households around the world, offering a convenient way to enjoy a hearty meal packed with flavors and nutrients. Traditionally, casseroles are baked in ovens, requiring a considerable amount of time and energy. However, with the advent of air fryers, cooking casseroles has become more efficient, faster, and even healthier.

1. Italian-Inspired Lasagna Casserole

Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes, and lasagna is no exception. To make a lasagna casserole in your air fryer, layer lasagna noodles with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and your choice of cooked ground meat or vegetables. Cook until the noodles are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

2. Tex-Mex Enchilada Casserole

Tex-Mex cuisine combines the bold flavors of Texas and Mexico, resulting in dishes that are spicy, savory, and satisfying. For an air fryer enchilada casserole, layer corn tortillas with shredded chicken or beef, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and serve with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, and sour cream.

3. Greek Moussaka Casserole

Moussaka is a classic Greek dish consisting of layers of eggplant, ground meat (often lamb), tomatoes, and béchamel sauce. To make a moussaka casserole in your air fryer, layer thinly sliced eggplant with seasoned ground meat, tomato sauce, and a creamy béchamel sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and eggs. Cook until the eggplant is tender and the sauce is bubbling.

4. Indian Butter Chicken Casserole

Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce. To create a butter chicken casserole in your air fryer, combine cooked chicken pieces with a flavorful tomato-based sauce made with butter, cream, and a blend of spices such as garam masala, cumin, and turmeric. Serve over cooked rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.

5. Moroccan Tagine Casserole

Moroccan cuisine is known for its aromatic spices and bold flavors, and tagine is a quintessential dish that embodies these characteristics. To make a Moroccan tagine casserole in your air fryer, combine tender chunks of meat (such as lamb or chicken) with dried fruits, vegetables, and a blend of spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and coriander. Cook until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

6. French Potato Gratin Casserole

Potato gratin, or gratin dauphinois, is a classic French dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream, cheese, and garlic. To make a potato gratin casserole in your air fryer, layer thinly sliced potatoes with a mixture of cream, garlic, and your choice of cheese (such as Gruyère or Parmesan). Cook until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.

7. Japanese Teriyaki Chicken Casserole

Japanese cuisine is celebrated for its delicate flavors and meticulous preparation techniques, and teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish that showcases these qualities. To make a teriyaki chicken casserole in your air fryer, combine bite-sized pieces of chicken with a homemade teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and ginger. Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli for added color and nutrition.

8. Mexican Chilaquiles Casserole

Chilaquiles are a popular Mexican dish featuring fried tortilla chips smothered in salsa verde or red sauce and topped with cheese, eggs, and other garnishes. To make a chilaquiles casserole in your air fryer, layer tortilla chips with salsa, shredded chicken or beef, cheese, and eggs. Cook until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted, and serve with avocado, cilantro, and sour cream.

9. Thai Green Curry Casserole

Thai cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic herbs and spices, and green curry is a quintessential dish that exemplifies these qualities. To make a Thai green curry casserole in your air fryer, combine tender pieces of chicken or tofu with a homemade green curry paste made from green chilies, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and other fragrant ingredients. Add coconut milk, vegetables, and fresh herbs such as basil and cilantro, and cook until the flavors have melded together beautifully.

10. American Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast casseroles are a comforting and hearty way to start the day, and they can easily be made in the air fryer for added convenience. To make an American breakfast casserole, layer cubed bread with cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, eggs, cheese, and your choice of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Cook until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and crispy, and serve with maple syrup or hot sauce for added flavor.

My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe

One of my favorite air fryer casserole recipes is a twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. This recipe combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta and crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
6. In a greased air fryer-safe casserole dish, layer the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
7. Place the casserole dish in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Just like with traditional ovens, preheating your air fryer can help ensure that your food cooks evenly and efficiently. Most air fryers have a preheat function that allows you to heat up the appliance quickly before adding your ingredients.

2. Use Parchment Paper Or Aluminum Foil

To prevent your food from sticking to the air fryer basket or tray, consider lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This not only makes cleanup easier but also helps to protect your food from burning or sticking.

3. Don’t Overcrowd The Basket

To ensure that your food cooks evenly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or tray. Leave space between each piece of food to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

4. Shake Or Flip Halfway Through Cooking

For foods that require flipping or shaking halfway through cooking, be sure to do so to ensure that all sides cook evenly. Use tongs or a spatula to flip or shake the food gently to avoid damaging delicate ingredients.

5. Experiment With Different Temperatures And Cooking Times

Every air fryer is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different temperatures and cooking times to find what works best for your recipes. Keep track of your adjustments so you can replicate successful results in the future.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

1. Prep Ingredients In Advance

To save time on busy weeknights, consider prepping ingredients in advance. Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and measure out spices ahead of time so that when it comes time to cook, you can simply toss everything together and start the air fryer.

2. Opt For One-Pot Meals

Many air fryer casserole recipes are one-pot meals, meaning you can cook everything in one dish for easy cleanup and minimal fuss. Look for recipes that allow you to layer ingredients directly in the air fryer basket or tray for added convenience.

3. Use Frozen Ingredients

Frozen ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and pre-cooked grains can be a lifesaver on busy nights when you don’t have time to prep fresh ingredients. Simply toss them directly into the air fryer and adjust the cooking time as needed.

4. Batch Cook And Freeze

Consider batch cooking your favorite air fryer casserole recipes and freezing individual portions for quick and convenient meals later on. Simply reheat in the air fryer straight from the freezer for a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes.

Conclusion

Air fryer casserole recipes offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy hearty meals with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re craving comforting classics like lasagna and macaroni and cheese or exploring global flavors like Indian butter chicken and Moroccan tagine, the possibilities are endless with an air fryer at your disposal. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering casseroles that are sure to impress family and friends alike. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure unlike any other!