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The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and delicious meals, but it can also come with the stress of cooking large, multi-course meals.
This is where the air fryer comes in as a game-changer for holiday cooking.
If you’re following a paleo lifestyle, you know that finding recipes that are both delicious and compliant with paleo guidelines can be a challenge.
Thankfully, the air fryer simplifies the process, making it easy to create healthy, flavorful dishes without sacrificing taste or texture.
In this article, we’re sharing 35+ holiday paleo air fryer recipes that will make your holiday celebrations easier, tastier, and more enjoyable.
From hearty main courses and savory side dishes to decadent desserts, these recipes are perfect for a paleo-friendly holiday spread.
Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or simply treating yourself to a festive meal, these recipes will ensure you enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed.
35+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Air Fryer Recipes to Elevate Your Feast
This holiday season, make your celebrations memorable without the hassle of complicated cooking.
With these 35+ holiday paleo air fryer recipes, you can create a range of dishes that are quick, healthy, and full of holiday cheer.
The air fryer’s magic lies in its ability to deliver crispy, tender, and perfectly cooked meals with minimal effort and less oil, keeping your meals both light and delicious.
From classic side dishes like spiced pecan and cranberry-stuffed sweet potatoes to show-stopping main courses like glazed salmon and festive desserts like spiced apple crisps, these recipes will elevate your holiday spread and impress your guests.
Embrace the convenience and versatility of the air fryer and discover how easy it is to whip up paleo-friendly holiday dishes that bring joy to your table.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and get ready to create unforgettable holiday dishes that everyone will love.
Crispy Paleo Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
These crispy Brussels sprouts make an ideal holiday side dish, delivering a satisfying crunch and rich, caramelized flavor. Perfect for any special occasion, they pair well with a variety of main courses and are sure to impress both guests and family members.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
- Once crispy and golden brown, remove from the air fryer and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
These Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and healthy holiday side dish that adds texture and a touch of elegance to your festive spread. The balsamic glaze adds a slight sweetness, balancing the natural bitterness of the Brussels sprouts and enhancing the overall taste.
Paleo Honey-Glazed Carrots
These honey-glazed carrots offer a sweet and savory twist that fits beautifully into your holiday menu. Cooked in the air fryer, they come out tender and caramelized, bringing a vibrant touch to your table with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby carrots (or sliced regular carrots)
- 2 tbsp raw honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the carrots with honey, olive oil, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the carrots are evenly coated.
- Place the carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once the carrots are tender and glazed, remove from the air fryer and transfer to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle with chopped thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
The air fryer enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious. This recipe is a perfect side that doesn’t need much preparation but delivers big holiday flavor.
Herb-Rubbed Air Fryer Turkey Breast
For a holiday main dish that’s simple yet impressive, this herb-rubbed turkey breast is a showstopper. It’s cooked in the air fryer to retain juiciness while developing a beautiful, crispy skin that’s packed with aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create the herb rub.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Place the turkey breast in the air fryer basket, skin-side up.
- Cook for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check periodically, and use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
- Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.
This herb-rubbed turkey breast is perfect for smaller gatherings or as an additional main course. It’s aromatic, succulent, and full of holiday spirit. The combination of fresh herbs and simple seasonings creates a dish that feels upscale without the fuss.
Paleo Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms
These stuffed mushrooms are a delicious, savory holiday appetizer that’s easy to make and perfect for any gathering. They’re filled with a flavorful mix of herbs, garlic, and paleo-friendly ingredients, then air-fried to perfection for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
- 12 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut cream or cashew cream
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, chopped spinach, diced onion, coconut cream, nutritional yeast, garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper and mix until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps, filling each one generously.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is lightly golden on top.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
These stuffed mushrooms offer a delectable combination of flavors that elevate your holiday spread. The creamy filling with a hint of garlic and nutritional yeast delivers a rich umami taste, making these a crowd-pleasing treat.
Paleo Cranberry Orange Glazed Salmon
Salmon with a bright, zesty glaze of cranberry and orange is a festive dish that’s perfect for holiday feasting. Cooked in the air fryer, it comes out tender with a slight caramelization on top, adding to the dish’s holiday appeal.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp raw honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp grated orange zest
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, honey, orange zest, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper, then brush with olive oil.
- Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
- Brush the cranberry orange glaze over the cooked salmon fillets and return them to the air fryer for an additional 2–3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
This dish strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it an elegant and healthy holiday main course. The cranberry orange glaze pairs wonderfully with the rich, tender salmon, giving it a festive, vibrant touch.
Paleo Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries make a fantastic side dish or snack for holiday gatherings. This recipe creates crispy, slightly sweet fries with just the right amount of seasoning, perfect for pairing with any holiday main course.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch fries
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with the oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
- Transfer the fries to a serving plate and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme.
These sweet potato fries are a healthy, holiday-friendly alternative to regular fries and add a lovely pop of color to your table. Their slight sweetness and crispy texture make them a satisfying side dish or snack, perfect for holiday festivities.
Paleo Air Fryer Maple Dijon Glazed Chicken Wings
These maple Dijon glazed chicken wings are a flavorful, crispy appetizer or main course perfect for holiday gatherings. Cooked to a tender perfection in the air fryer, they’re coated with a sweet and tangy glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, trimmed and patted dry
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a bowl, toss the chicken wings with oil, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly.
- Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the wings are cooking, prepare the glaze by combining maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika in a small saucepan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Once the wings are ready, toss them in the glaze until fully coated.
- Return the wings to the air fryer for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Garnish with chopped chives before serving.
These chicken wings are a deliciously sweet and tangy holiday treat, perfect for serving as an appetizer or part of a main course. The air fryer ensures they’re crispy without being greasy, while the maple Dijon glaze adds a festive and mouthwatering finish.
Paleo Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet, salty, and utterly irresistible, these bacon-wrapped dates are a holiday favorite that never disappoints. The combination of caramelized dates, smoky bacon, and a touch of almond makes them a crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
- 16 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 16 whole almonds or chopped walnuts
- 8 slices of paleo-friendly bacon, cut in half
- Toothpicks (for securing)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Stuff each date with an almond or walnut piece.
- Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and browned, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
These bacon-wrapped dates are the perfect blend of sweet and savory and make a delectable addition to any holiday spread. They’re easy to prepare, cook quickly, and are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Paleo Air Fryer Spiced Apple Chips
These air fryer spiced apple chips are a healthy, sweet snack that adds a touch of holiday cheer to your table. With a satisfying crunch and the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, they’re perfect for munching on their own or serving as a festive garnish for desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (preferably Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Thinly slice the apples into 1/8-inch rounds and remove any seeds.
- In a bowl, toss the apple slices with cinnamon, nutmeg, coconut sugar, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are golden and crispy.
- Let the chips cool for a few minutes before serving.
These spiced apple chips are a simple yet festive snack that fits perfectly into any holiday menu. Their natural sweetness combined with warm spices brings the cozy flavors of the season to life, making them a great snack or garnish for desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
Paleo Air Fryer Cranberry Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash
This cranberry walnut stuffed acorn squash is an elegant, festive dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, creating a hearty and delicious side or main course.
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (optional for added texture)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the acorn squash halves with a light coat of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 15–18 minutes or until tender and golden.
- While the squash is cooking, prepare the filling by combining cranberries, chopped walnuts, cooked quinoa, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Remove the squash from the air fryer, turn them cut-side up, and spoon the cranberry walnut filling into each half.
- Return the squash to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the filling is warm and slightly caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This dish is the epitome of holiday comfort food, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The air fryer helps cook the squash evenly, resulting in a tender, flavorful base for the vibrant cranberry and walnut stuffing.
Paleo Air Fryer Lemon Herb Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are elevated with a simple, zesty lemon herb seasoning and air-fried to crispy perfection, making them a bright, fresh side dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sprouts are crispy and golden brown.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
These lemon herb Brussels sprouts are light and full of flavor, making them an ideal addition to any holiday meal. The air fryer ensures a crispy texture while maintaining a bright, refreshing taste that complements rich holiday dishes.
Paleo Air Fryer Pecan-Crusted Sweet Potatoes
These pecan-crusted sweet potatoes are a sweet and crunchy side dish that makes a perfect holiday addition. The combination of tender sweet potatoes with a crispy pecan coating makes them both hearty and indulgent, while staying paleo-friendly.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with melted coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed pecans and almond flour.
- Dip each sweet potato slice into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
- Arrange the coated sweet potato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the pecan crust is golden brown.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional pecan pieces if desired.
These pecan-crusted sweet potatoes bring a delightful combination of textures and flavors to your holiday menu. The sweetness of the potatoes and the crunch of the pecans are complemented by a touch of cinnamon and maple, making them a comforting and festive side dish.
Paleo Air Fryer Cranberry Orange Glazed Salmon
This cranberry orange glazed salmon is a holiday-worthy dish that combines the rich, flaky texture of salmon with a bright and tangy cranberry orange sauce. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or a special weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper and set aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, orange zest, cinnamon, and ginger. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Pour a small amount of the cranberry orange glaze over each salmon fillet and place them in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Drizzle the remaining cranberry orange glaze over the salmon and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. The bright flavors of cranberry and orange complement the rich, tender salmon, creating an elegant holiday dish that’s both easy to prepare and impressive.
Paleo Air Fryer Spiced Pecan and Cranberry Stuffed Apples
These spiced pecan and cranberry stuffed apples are a warm and satisfying holiday dessert. The combination of sweet apples, spiced pecans, and dried cranberries is perfect for a cozy winter evening.
Ingredients
- 4 large apples (Honeycrisp or Gala work best)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the top off each apple and scoop out the center to create a cavity, leaving about 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- In a bowl, combine chopped pecans, dried cranberries, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and coconut flakes if using. Mix well.
- Spoon the pecan mixture into each apple until full and drizzle the tops with melted coconut oil.
- Place the stuffed apples in the air fryer basket and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is golden.
- Let the apples cool for a few minutes before serving.
These stuffed apples are an elegant and naturally sweet dessert, perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy nights in. The warm spices and tangy cranberries create a delightful contrast to the sweet, tender apple, while the pecan adds satisfying crunch.
Paleo Air Fryer Garlic Herb Roast Potatoes
These garlic herb roast potatoes are a simple and classic holiday side dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The air fryer makes them crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for pairing with any main dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
- Transfer the potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
These garlic herb roast potatoes are a versatile and crowd-pleasing side dish for any holiday meal. Their crispy exterior and soft interior, combined with the aromatic herbs and garlic, make them an irresistible addition to your dinner table.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!