27+ Delicious Italian Air Fryer Recipes to Savor Every Bite

Italian cuisine is celebrated around the world for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes.

From crispy pizzas to golden-brown arancini, the possibilities are endless.

But what if you could enjoy these classic Italian dishes in a healthier and quicker way?

Enter the air fryer—a game-changer in the kitchen that allows you to create your favorite Italian recipes with a fraction of the oil, all while keeping the texture and taste intact.

In this blog post, we’ve curated over 27+ delicious Italian air fryer recipes that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy.

Whether you’re craving crispy fried eggplant Parmesan, golden breaded chicken, or a cheesy pizza, you’ll find a recipe to suit every taste.

These dishes are perfect for busy weeknights, weekend dinners, or entertaining friends and family.

So, grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in these Italian-inspired masterpieces!

27+ Delicious Italian Air Fryer Recipes to Savor Every Bite

Cooking Italian dishes in the air fryer has never been easier or more delicious.

These 27+ Italian air fryer recipes provide the perfect balance of health, flavor, and convenience.

By using less oil and cutting down on cooking time, the air fryer allows you to enjoy the authentic tastes of Italy in a more modern, effortless way.

Whether you’re a fan of crispy appetizers or hearty main courses, there’s a recipe here for everyone.

So, why not bring a little taste of Italy into your kitchen today and enjoy these mouthwatering dishes without the extra calories or hassle?

Crispy Air Fryer Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)

Arancini, or Italian rice balls, are a beloved Sicilian treat featuring creamy risotto encased in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Traditionally deep-fried, these rice balls get a healthier twist in the air fryer without compromising on taste or texture. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, they’re filled with gooey mozzarella that melts in your mouth with every bite. With the air fryer, you’ll enjoy all the flavor without the guilt.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked risotto (cooled)
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Scoop a tablespoon of risotto and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small piece of mozzarella in the center and shape the risotto around it to form a ball.
3. Roll each ball in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the arancini in a single layer, leaving space between them. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

These crispy air fryer arancini capture the essence of Italian comfort food with a modern, healthy spin. The melty mozzarella center combined with the crunchy exterior makes them irresistibly delicious. Pair them with marinara sauce, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion.

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish loved for its layers of tender eggplant, rich marinara, and melted cheese. Traditionally fried, this air fryer version skips the excess oil while delivering the same indulgent flavors and textures. Ideal as a main course or side dish, this recipe is a quicker, cleaner way to enjoy a beloved favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
3. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
4. Arrange the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spraying lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
5. Top each slice with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Return to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

This air fryer Eggplant Parmesan delivers all the rich, comforting flavors of the classic dish with a fraction of the oil. It’s crispy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it becomes a household favorite.

Air Fryer Italian Garlic Breadsticks

Homemade garlic breadsticks are a staple in Italian cuisine, and making them in the air fryer ensures they come out perfectly golden and soft on the inside. Infused with garlic, butter, and Italian herbs, these breadsticks are a delightful side dish to pasta, soups, or salads. The air fryer not only saves time but also guarantees a consistently delicious result.

Ingredients:

• 1 can refrigerated breadstick dough
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian herbs.
3. Twist the breadstick dough and brush generously with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Place the breadsticks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the breadsticks while they’re still hot.
7. Serve warm with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

These air fryer garlic breadsticks are a game-changer, offering all the flavor of traditional oven-baked breadsticks with a fraction of the time. The combination of buttery garlic and Parmesan makes them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a side or a snack, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Air Fryer Margherita Pizza Bites

Margherita pizza is an iconic Italian dish, celebrated for its simplicity and flavor. These air fryer Margherita pizza bites condense that classic taste into a quick, bite-sized appetizer or snack. With a crispy crust, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella, these mini pizzas are perfect for parties, game nights, or even a fun family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of mini naan bread or pre-made pizza crusts
• 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil for brushing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the naan or pizza crusts lightly with olive oil.
3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each crust.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the mini pizzas in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

These air fryer Margherita pizza bites are a delightful twist on a beloved classic, bringing together the fresh flavors of basil, tomato, and mozzarella in a convenient, handheld form. Whether for a snack or a party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Air Fryer Italian Meatballs

Italian meatballs are a timeless comfort food, often served with pasta or as a standalone dish. This air fryer version delivers the same juicy, flavorful experience with a fraction of the cooking time. Infused with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, these meatballs are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Marinara sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.
4. Arrange the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until browned and fully cooked.
5. Serve warm with marinara sauce, pasta, or a side salad.

Air fryer Italian meatballs are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them versatile enough to pair with various dishes or enjoy on their own. They’re sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Air Fryer Cannoli Chips with Ricotta Dip

Cannoli is a beloved Italian dessert known for its sweet ricotta filling and crisp shell. This air fryer adaptation transforms the traditional treat into a fun and shareable snack. Cannoli chips paired with creamy ricotta dip are perfect for dessert platters or a light, elegant treat after dinner.

Ingredients:

• 6 cannoli shells or wonton wrappers, cut into triangles
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Cooking spray

For the Ricotta Dip:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray the cannoli shell pieces or wonton triangles with cooking spray and sprinkle with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the dip by mixing ricotta, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and mini chocolate chips in a bowl.
5. Serve the crispy chips with the ricotta dip on the side.

Air fryer cannoli chips with ricotta dip bring all the flavors of a traditional cannoli in a fun, sharable format. The light, crispy chips pair perfectly with the creamy, chocolate-studded ricotta dip, making this dessert both delightful and effortless to prepare.

Air Fryer Italian Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that combines the rustic charm of toasted bread with the fresh flavors of tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Making it in the air fryer enhances the crunchiness of the bread while saving time. Perfect for gatherings or as a light snack, this recipe delivers authentic Italian flavors in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for brushing
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil on both sides and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
3. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Air fryer bruschetta is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a timeless Italian favorite. The combination of crisp bread and fresh toppings creates an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners.

Air Fryer Italian Sausage and Peppers

Italian sausage and peppers is a hearty, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. This air fryer version cuts down on cooking time while delivering perfectly cooked sausage and tender, caramelized peppers. Serve it as a main course, sandwich filling, or alongside pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausage links (mild or spicy)
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the bell peppers and onions with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the sausage links in the air fryer basket and cook for 6 minutes.
4. Add the peppers and onions to the basket, surrounding the sausages. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, flipping the sausages halfway through, until the sausages are browned and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot as a main dish or in sandwich rolls.

Air fryer Italian sausage and peppers are a delicious and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare. The air fryer enhances the flavors of the sausage and vegetables, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals.

Air Fryer Tiramisu Bites

Tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert, gets a modern twist with these air fryer tiramisu bites. These crispy, bite-sized treats combine layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone filling, encased in a crispy outer shell. They’re perfect for dessert platters or an elegant after-dinner indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 8 ladyfinger cookies, crushed
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Dip crushed ladyfingers into espresso and mix them into the mascarpone filling. Form small balls from the mixture and freeze for 15-20 minutes.
4. Coat each ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, and roll in breadcrumbs.
5. Arrange the tiramisu balls in the air fryer basket, spray with cooking spray, and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden.
6. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.

Air fryer tiramisu bites are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of traditional tiramisu in a fun, handheld form. Their crispy exterior and creamy, coffee-flavored filling make them an elegant yet approachable dessert, ideal for any occasion.

Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious Italian appetizer, combining earthy mushroom caps with a flavorful filling. These air fryer stuffed mushrooms are a quick and healthy alternative to traditional oven-baked versions, featuring a rich mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and Parmesan. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a savory snack.

Ingredients:

• 12 large button mushrooms, stems removed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each mushroom cap, pressing the filling down gently.
4. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Lightly spray with olive oil.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbling.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Air fryer stuffed mushrooms are a great way to enjoy a classic Italian appetizer in a fraction of the time. Their creamy, cheesy filling and tender mushrooms make them a crowd-pleasing choice for any occasion. Perfect for dinner parties or as a snack to enjoy with loved ones.

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish, combining crispy breaded chicken with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This air fryer version is lighter and quicker, without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors. The crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and savory sauce make this dish a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil spray
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and place the breaded chicken breasts inside. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with pasta, salad, or a side of vegetables.

Air fryer chicken Parmesan delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness of the traditional dish in a fraction of the time. It’s a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version, without compromising on flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or as a comforting meal for the whole family.

Air Fryer Risotto Balls (Arancini)

Arancini, or Italian risotto balls, are a popular Italian snack made from leftover risotto, breaded, and fried until crispy. This air fryer version makes them healthier and quicker, without losing the crunchy exterior and creamy interior. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella and packed with savory flavors, these risotto balls are perfect for appetizers or a fun snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover risotto, cooled
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Olive oil spray
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Take small portions of the cooled risotto and roll them into balls. Press a small cube of mozzarella into the center of each ball.
3. Roll each ball in flour, dip in the beaten egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Arrange the arancini in the air fryer basket in a single layer and lightly spray with olive oil.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

Air fryer risotto balls (arancini) are a delicious and fun way to repurpose leftover risotto. The crispy exterior, combined with the creamy mozzarella center, creates the perfect bite. These easy-to-make, flavorful treats are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a tasty snack to enjoy on your own.

Air Fryer Margherita Pizza

Margherita pizza, with its simple yet flavorful combination of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, is a classic Italian favorite. By using the air fryer, you can achieve a crispy, golden crust and melty cheese in no time. This recipe provides a quick and easy way to enjoy this beloved pizza without the need for an oven, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 small pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to fit the size of your air fryer basket.
3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices and halved cherry tomatoes on top of the sauce.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and place the pizza inside.
6. Air fry for 7-9 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
7. Remove the pizza from the air fryer and top with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Air fryer Margherita pizza brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen in just minutes. The air fryer ensures a crispy crust while keeping the toppings fresh and flavorful. It’s the perfect recipe for pizza night, offering a quick, hassle-free way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a personal twist.

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish, traditionally fried and baked in the oven. This air fryer version is lighter yet still delivers the crispy, cheesy goodness that makes it so popular. The eggplant is perfectly breaded and cooked in the air fryer, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, creating a comforting meal without all the oil.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, basil, oregano, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. Arrange the breaded eggplant slices in the air fryer basket, spraying them lightly with olive oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Top each slice with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Air fryer eggplant Parmesan is a healthier and faster way to enjoy this comforting Italian classic. The eggplant retains its tender interior while becoming perfectly crispy on the outside. This dish offers all the delicious flavors of traditional eggplant Parmesan with less oil, making it a great option for a light yet satisfying meal.

Air Fryer Italian Meatballs

Italian meatballs are a staple in many Italian dishes, whether served with pasta, on a sub sandwich, or as a tasty appetizer. This air fryer version is healthier and faster than the traditional frying method. The meatballs come out tender on the inside with a crisp exterior, making them the perfect accompaniment to pasta or a delicious stand-alone dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a combination)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and place the meatballs inside, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs and allow it to heat through.
6. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and additional marinara sauce on the side.

Air fryer Italian meatballs are a quick, easy, and healthier way to enjoy a classic Italian dish. With their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, they make a perfect addition to any meal. Whether served with pasta, in a sub, or on their own, these meatballs are sure to be a crowd favorite.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!