In recent years, air fryers have taken British kitchens by storm, offering a healthier way to prepare beloved meals. From traditional dishes to contemporary favorites, the air fryer simplifies cooking without sacrificing flavor. Here, I explore nine air fryer dinners that Brits enjoy making on weeknights, perfect for busy schedules and delicious, hassle-free meals.
Classic Fish and Chips
Fish and chips are synonymous with British cuisine, and the air fryer offers a convenient twist to this classic meal. By using an air fryer, I can achieve a crispy texture for the fish and chips without the need for excessive oil. Cod or haddock fillets lightly coated with seasoned breadcrumbs cook perfectly in the air fryer, delivering a satisfying crunch.
Pairing these with air-fried chips gives me a complete meal that replicates the taste of a traditional chippy, only healthier. I often add a side of mushy peas or tartar sauce to enhance the meal, making it a comforting choice for a weeknight dinner.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish across the UK, and the air fryer simplifies its preparation. By marinating chicken pieces in yogurt and spices, I can quickly air fry them to achieve a tender and flavorful result. The high heat of the air fryer seals the spices into the chicken, enhancing its taste.
Once the chicken is ready, I combine it with a creamy tomato sauce, rich in aromatic spices. Serving it with basmati rice or naan bread makes for a delicious, comforting meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Sausage and Mash
Sausage and mash is a staple in many British households, and the air fryer makes it a breeze to prepare. I can cook sausages evenly and thoroughly in the air fryer, ensuring they are juicy and crispy on the outside. This method also reduces the need for constant attention, allowing me to focus on preparing the creamy mashed potatoes.
For an added twist, I sometimes incorporate caramelized onions and gravy, giving the dish a rich depth of flavor. The air fryer’s convenience makes it easy to enjoy this comforting meal even on the busiest weeknights.
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting classic that the air fryer adapts beautifully. I start by preparing the minced lamb filling with vegetables such as carrots and peas, simmering it with a flavorful gravy. Transferring the mixture to an oven-safe dish, I top it with creamy mashed potatoes.
Using the air fryer to finish the dish, I achieve a golden crust on the potatoes without overcooking the filling. This streamlined process saves time and energy, making Shepherd’s Pie a feasible option for a weeknight dinner.
Bangers and Beans
Bangers and beans are a simple yet satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly in the air fryer. Cooking sausages in the air fryer ensures they are evenly browned and full of flavor. While the sausages cook, I prepare a quick batch of baked beans, often adding a touch of brown sugar or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
This hearty meal is perfect for a busy evening, giving me a taste of home-cooked comfort with minimal fuss. The air fryer’s efficiency allows me to enjoy this classic dish with ease and convenience.
Roast Chicken and Vegetables
Roast chicken and vegetables are a timeless combination that the air fryer makes even more accessible. By seasoning a chicken breast or thighs with herbs and spices, I can achieve a juicy, flavorful result. Adding a selection of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips provides a balanced meal.
The air fryer’s even heat distribution ensures both the chicken and vegetables are cooked to perfection, with a delightful crispness that is difficult to achieve with traditional roasting. This meal is a great way to enjoy a nutritious dinner without the long cooking time.
Toad in the Hole
Toad in the Hole is a British favorite that I can easily prepare in the air fryer. By cooking sausages first, I ensure they are browned and full of flavor. I then pour a simple batter made from flour, eggs, and milk over the sausages.
The air fryer’s consistent heat allows the batter to rise and crisp up nicely, creating that characteristic puffed appearance. This dish pairs well with a rich onion gravy, making it a delightful dinner option that feels both comforting and special.
Beef and Ale Pie
Beef and Ale Pie is a hearty dish that the air fryer can handle surprisingly well. By cooking the beef filling with ale, onions, and carrots, I develop a rich, savory base. Transferring it to a pie dish, I cover it with a layer of puff pastry.
The air fryer’s high heat crisps the pastry beautifully, ensuring a flaky, golden top. This method reduces cooking time compared to a conventional oven, allowing me to enjoy this comforting pie on a weeknight with less hassle.
Vegetable Curry
A vegetable curry is a versatile and nutritious option that can be quickly prepared in the air fryer. By roasting a mix of seasonal vegetables such as cauliflower, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes, I achieve a caramelized flavor that enhances the curry.
Combining the roasted vegetables with a curry sauce and serving it with rice or naan creates a satisfying meal. The air fryer’s ability to develop flavors in a short amount of time makes it an excellent tool for enjoying a wholesome curry without spending hours in the kitchen.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
