Air Fryer or Oven? These 10 Food Work Both Ways

The air fryer isn’t the only gadget that makes quick, crispy, and tasty meals. Many breakfast favorites and snacks can be cooked multiple ways.

From the air fryer to the oven, stovetop, or even Instant Pot, here are 10 versatile recipes you can whip up using whatever tools you have on hand.

1. Zucchini Fritters

Crispy,Zucchini,In,A,Light,Batter,Being,Fried,To,Golden — Shutterstock

Grated zucchini mixed with egg and breadcrumbs fries up light and crispy.
Other option: Shallow-fry on the stovetop for traditional crunch.

2. Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon,Rolls,,Buns,,Cinnabons,On,Black,Plate.,Dark,Background.,Close — Shutterstock

Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are a treat in the air fryer, especially with store-bought dough.
Other option: Bake in a toaster oven for the same indulgent results.

3. Avocado Eggs

Avocado Eggs with Air Fryer — Illustration/MGDK

Bake an egg inside an avocado half for a protein-rich, keto-friendly meal.
Other option: Roast them in the oven for a hands-off brunch dish.

4. Mini Meatballs

Closeup,Of,Fried,Meatball,In,An,Air,Fryer — Shutterstock

Juicy meatballs brown quickly in the air fryer with less oil.
Other option: Simmer them in a slow cooker with sauce for tender results.

5. Air Fryer Bagels

Homemade,Organic,Butter,Bagel,Breads,Are,Baked,By,Using,A — Shutterstock

Quick, no-yeast bagels cook up chewy and satisfying in the air fryer. Customize with seeds or seasoning.
Other option: Bake them in the oven for a larger batch at once.

6. Garlic Parmesan Potato Cakes

Breakfast Potato Cakes — Illustration/MGDK

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potato cakes make a savory side. Garlic and parmesan add depth.
Other option: Pan-fry them on the stovetop for extra golden edges.

7. Apple Chips

Thin apple slices turn into a sweet, crunchy snack in the air fryer.
Other option: Bake in the oven on low heat for a batch of crispy chips.

8. Omelet Bites

Vegetarian,Egg,Muffins,With,Mushroom,,Spinach,And,Cheese,For,Breakfast — Shutterstock

Air fryer omelet bites come out fluffy and portable, perfect for breakfast on the go. Just fill them with cheese, veggies, or meat.
Other option: Bake them in a muffin tin for a batch-friendly version.

9. Breakfast Quesadillas

Chicken,Quesadillas,With,Fresh,Vegetables,On,White,Plate,On,Brown — Shutterstock

Eggs, cheese, and beans folded into tortillas crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Other option: Toast them on a skillet or griddle for a classic, melty finish.

10. Banana Bread Muffins

Moist and sweet, these muffins bake quickly in the air fryer in small batches.
Other option: Use the oven for a full tray or loaf.