23 Easy Air Fryer Soups + Sides!
Look, I’m not going to pretend that air fryer soups are some revolutionary concept that’ll change your life overnight. But here’s the thing—they’re insanely convenient, surprisingly versatile, and honestly? They taste way better than you’d think.
I stumbled into the whole air fryer soup game pretty much by accident. One cold Tuesday night, I had zero motivation to stand over a stove for an hour. My air fryer was just sitting there on the counter, and I thought, why not throw some veggies and broth in an oven-safe pot and see what happens? Turns out, you can make a legit bowl of soup without babysitting a simmering pot.
The best part? You can prep sides at the same time. Crispy Brussels sprouts while your soup bubbles away? Yes, please. And according to Mayo Clinic, air frying slashes cooking time and uses way less oil than traditional methods—which means you’re getting dinner on the table faster without all the extra fat.
Why Air Fryer Soups and Sides Actually Work
I’ll be honest—when I first heard about making soup in an air fryer, I was skeptical. Soup needs liquid, and air fryers are designed to crisp things up, right? But here’s what I figured out: you’re not actually “air frying” the soup itself.
You’re using the air fryer as a mini convection oven. Toss your ingredients into an oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, slide it into the air fryer basket, and let that hot air work its magic. The circulating heat cooks everything evenly while you’re free to prep sides or, let’s be real, scroll through TikTok for 20 minutes.
Research from Healthline shows that air frying can cut fat content by up to 75% compared to deep frying, and that makes a huge difference when you’re trying to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s just easier. No preheating a massive oven, no standing over a hot stove, and cleanup is a breeze.
The Science Behind It (Without the Boring Lecture)
Air fryers use rapid air technology—basically a heating element plus a fan that blasts hot air around your food. For soups, this means even heat distribution without the risk of scorching the bottom like you might on a stovetop. For sides, it means you get that crispy exterior everyone craves without drowning everything in oil.
A Cleveland Clinic study found that air-fried foods maintain similar moisture and color to traditionally fried foods but with significantly less fat. That’s why your roasted veggies come out tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, while your soup stays rich and flavorful.
The Soups: From Simple to Show-Stopping
1. Classic Tomato Basil Soup
This is your gateway soup. Canned tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of cream if you’re feeling fancy. Twenty minutes in the air fryer, and you’ve got something that tastes like it simmered all day. I usually pair this with some crispy air-fried vegetables on the side.
2. Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Dump in some shredded rotisserie chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and low-sodium broth. The air fryer does the heavy lifting, and you get a comforting bowl of soup without any effort. If you’re prepping chicken specifically for this, check out this Get Full Recipe for perfectly cooked air fryer chicken breast.
3. Butternut Squash Soup
Cube your squash, toss it with a little olive oil (or use this olive oil spray for even distribution), and roast it directly in the air fryer. Once it’s tender, blend it with vegetable broth, and boom—velvety butternut squash soup. Harvard Health notes that soups loaded with vegetables are naturally high in fiber and help keep you full longer, which is exactly what you want on a busy weeknight.
4. Minestrone Soup
This is where you raid your pantry. Beans, pasta, tomatoes, zucchini, whatever veggies you’ve got hanging out in the crisper drawer. The beauty of minestrone is that it’s forgiving—nothing needs to be perfect. Just toss everything into your air fryer-safe pot and let it cook.
Looking for more meal prep inspiration? These air fryer meal prep ideas pair perfectly with a big batch of soup for the week.
5. Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Controversial opinion: this soup is better in the air fryer than on the stove. The broccoli gets perfectly tender without turning mushy, and the cheese melts into this incredible, creamy consistency. I use sharp cheddar because life’s too short for mild cheese, and I always have some pre-shredded cheese in the fridge for emergencies like this.
6. Lentil and Kale Soup
Nutritionally, this one’s a powerhouse. Lentils bring the protein and fiber, kale adds vitamins K and C, and you’re basically eating health in a bowl. According to a study published in the journal Plants, vegetable soups are recognized as healthy sources of dietary fiber, vitamins, and bioactive compounds that support overall wellbeing.
7. French Onion Soup
Yes, you can caramelize onions in an air fryer. It takes longer than you’d think, but the result is absolutely worth it. Layer them in a shallow pan, let them cook low and slow, then add your broth and top with cheese and bread. The air fryer melts everything together beautifully.
If you’re craving more French-inspired flavors, try pairing this with some Get Full Recipe for crispy air-fried potatoes on the side.
8. Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This one’s all about the flavor layers. Coconut milk, red curry paste, lime juice, and whatever protein you’re feeling. I usually go with shrimp or tofu. The heat from the air fryer brings out the aromatics in the curry paste, and the result is this rich, complex soup that tastes like you ordered takeout.
9. White Bean and Spinach Soup
Simple, rustic, and incredibly satisfying. White beans, garlic, spinach, and a good Parmesan rind if you’ve got one lying around. This soup benefits from the even heat distribution in the air fryer—everything melds together without overcooking the spinach.
10. Mexican Tortilla Soup
This is my go-to when I want something bold and spicy. Black beans, corn, tomatoes, jalapeños, and all the toppings—avocado, sour cream, tortilla strips. You can even crisp your own tortilla strips in the air fryer while the soup cooks. It’s multitasking at its finest.
11. Loaded Potato Soup
Comfort food at its peak. Diced potatoes, bacon bits, cheese, and a creamy base. The air fryer cooks the potatoes evenly so you don’t end up with some mushy and some undercooked. I use this immersion blender to partially blend the soup—it gives you that thick, hearty texture without losing all the chunks.
For more potato inspiration, definitely check out these crispy air fryer potatoes that require zero oil.
12. Split Pea Soup
Old school, but honestly underrated. Split peas, ham hock or bacon, carrots, onions. The air fryer keeps everything at a consistent simmer, which is exactly what you need for split peas to break down into that thick, creamy consistency.
13. Corn Chowder
Sweet corn, potatoes, a little bacon, and cream. This soup is basically summer in a bowl, and it works year-round with frozen corn. The air fryer keeps the corn kernels from getting too soft, so you still get that pop of sweetness in every bite.
The Sides: Because Soup Deserves Good Company
14. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
These are non-negotiable. Halve them, toss with olive oil and salt, and air fry until the edges are dark and crispy. They’re addictive. I swear, people who claim they hate Brussels sprouts have never tried them like this.
If Brussels sprouts aren’t your thing, try these other air fryer veggie options—they all pair beautifully with soup.
15. Sweet Potato Rounds
Slice sweet potatoes into rounds, season with smoked paprika and garlic powder, and air fry. They come out tender with crispy edges, and they’re perfect for dipping into soup. I use this mandoline slicer to get uniform slices—total game changer.
16. Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Fresh green beans tossed with minced garlic, Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon. The air fryer gets them tender-crisp in about 8 minutes, and the Parmesan gets all melty and delicious.
17. Roasted Chickpeas
Crunchy, protein-packed, and ridiculously easy. Drain a can of chickpeas, toss with spices (I rotate between cumin, paprika, and everything bagel seasoning), and air fry until crispy. These are great as a soup topping or a standalone snack. Here’s a tried-and-true recipe for crispy air fryer chickpeas that uses just 3 ingredients.
18. Zucchini Fries
Cut zucchini into sticks, coat them in breadcrumbs (I prefer panko for extra crunch), and air fry. They’re lighter than regular fries but just as satisfying. Dip them in marinara or ranch—or straight into your soup.
Kitchen Tools That Make These Recipes Easier
After making air fryer soups and sides on repeat, these are the tools I actually use every single week. No fluff, just stuff that genuinely makes cooking less annoying.
- Oven-Safe Soup Pot (6-inch) – Fits perfectly in most air fryer baskets and distributes heat evenly. Look for one with metal handles, not plastic.
- Immersion Blender – For when you want creamy soup without transferring hot liquid to a blender. Way safer, way easier.
- Silicone Tongs – Heat-resistant and won’t scratch your air fryer basket. I use these to flip veggies and pull out hot pots.
- Air Fryer Recipe eBook Bundle – Hundreds of tested recipes sorted by meal type. Saves me from the endless “what should I make” spiral.
- Meal Prep Template Pack – Printable planners and grocery lists specifically designed for air fryer cooking. Keeps me organized.
- Air Fryer Conversion Chart (Printable PDF) – Converting oven recipes to air fryer temps and times. I have this taped inside my kitchen cabinet.
19. Cauliflower Bites
Break a head of cauliflower into florets, toss with buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce, and air fry. They’re tangy, slightly spicy, and way healthier than wings. Plus, they’re an excellent side for any soup that needs a flavor kick.
20. Parmesan Asparagus
Trim the woody ends, coat in olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and air fry. The asparagus gets tender with a slight char, and the Parmesan forms this crispy crust. It’s fancy without trying too hard.
21. Carrot Chips
Slice carrots super thin (that mandoline slicer comes in handy again), toss with a tiny bit of oil, and air fry until crispy. They’re sweet, crunchy, and a fun alternative to regular chips.
22. Mushroom Medley
Mixed mushrooms—cremini, shiitake, whatever you can find—tossed with balsamic vinegar and thyme. The air fryer concentrates their umami flavor, and they’re incredible with pretty much any soup.
23. Cornbread Muffins
Yes, you can bake cornbread in an air fryer. Use a muffin tin that fits in your basket, pour in your batter, and bake. They come out golden and slightly crispy on the edges. Perfect for dunking into soup. For more quick air fryer breakfast or bread ideas, these air fryer breakfast sandwiches use similar techniques.
The Health Angle (Without the Preaching)
I’m not a nutritionist, but I do care about what I’m eating. Air fryer soups and sides check a lot of boxes if you’re trying to eat healthier without feeling deprived. Harvard Health emphasizes that vegetable-rich soups are naturally high in fiber and contain heart-protecting nutrients, especially when you include beans and whole grains.
The air fryer itself helps because you’re using way less oil. Traditional frying can use up to 50 times more oil than air frying, according to research from GoodRx. That means fewer calories and less saturated fat without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Nutrient Density Matters
Soup is also one of those rare foods where you can pack in a ton of nutrients without feeling like you’re eating a salad. A study in the journal Plants found that vegetable soups provide proteins, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals—all the stuff your body actually needs to function.
Plus, according to research published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (as mentioned in Harvard Health sources), people who ate soup felt fuller longer compared to those who ate solid meals, even when the calorie count was the same. That’s huge if you’re trying to manage portion sizes or avoid late-night snacking.
Speaking of meal management, if you’re trying to eat lighter, check out these quick air fryer meals for weight loss that pair well with soup-based meal plans.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Overcrowding the Basket
This is the number one rookie error. If you pack too much into your air fryer, the hot air can’t circulate properly, and you end up with unevenly cooked food. Leave space between items, and cook in batches if you need to.
Skipping the Oil (When You Need It)
Air fryers use less oil, not zero oil. A light spray or brush of oil helps with browning and prevents sticking. I keep this refillable oil sprayer on hand—way more cost-effective than buying aerosol cans.
Using the Wrong Containers
Not all dishes are air fryer-safe. Avoid anything with plastic handles or decorative elements that might melt. Stick to oven-safe glass, ceramic, or metal, and always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Forgetting to Shake or Stir
For sides, especially things like vegetables or chickpeas, you need to shake the basket halfway through cooking. For soups, give everything a quick stir to ensure even heating. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
If you’re new to air frying in general, start with these air fryer meals anyone can make—they’re beginner-friendly and build your confidence.
Meal Prep with Air Fryer Soups and Sides
One of the best things about soup is that it freezes beautifully. Make a double batch on Sunday, portion it out into containers, and you’ve got lunches or dinners sorted for the week. The sides, on the other hand, are best fresh—but they reheat quickly in the air fryer.
I usually prep one or two soups and rotate through different sides throughout the week. Monday might be tomato soup with Brussels sprouts, Wednesday could be lentil soup with sweet potato rounds. It keeps things interesting without requiring a ton of effort.
For more structured meal prep guidance, these air fryer meal prep ideas lay out exactly how to batch-cook for the week ahead.
Flavor Boosters That Make a Difference
Soup doesn’t have to be boring. A few strategic additions can take your soup from “meh” to “make this again immediately.”
- Fresh Herbs: Add them at the end for brightness. Basil, cilantro, parsley, dill—whatever suits the flavor profile.
- Acid: A squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar wakes up the whole bowl. Don’t skip this step.
- Cheese: Parmesan rind in the pot while cooking adds umami depth. Shredded cheese on top adds richness.
- Heat: Red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or fresh jalapeños. Even a tiny bit of heat makes soup more interesting.
- Crunch: Toasted nuts, croutons, or those crispy chickpeas from earlier. Texture contrast is key.
These principles apply to sides too. Toss roasted veggies with a squeeze of lemon and some fresh herbs right before serving. It’s the difference between “fine” and “actually delicious.”
Looking for more ways to level up your air fryer game? These 5-ingredient air fryer chicken recipes use similar flavor-boosting techniques.
Budget-Friendly Air Fryer Cooking
Soup is inherently economical. You can use up vegetables that are on their last legs, stretch a small amount of protein with beans or grains, and create multiple servings for just a few bucks. The air fryer adds another layer of savings because it uses less energy than heating up a full-sized oven.
For sides, frozen vegetables are your friend. They’re often cheaper than fresh, already prepped, and just as nutritious. Toss them straight from the freezer into the air fryer basket, and you’re good to go. I always keep bags of frozen Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and green beans in my freezer for exactly this reason.
If you’re cooking on a tight budget, these 5-ingredient air fryer meals under 400 calories maximize flavor while keeping costs low.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really make soup in an air fryer?
Absolutely. You need an oven-safe pot or container that fits inside your air fryer basket, but once you have that, it works like a mini convection oven. The circulating hot air cooks the soup evenly without the need for constant stirring. Just make sure your container has enough headroom to prevent spills.
How long does it take to make soup in an air fryer?
Most soups take between 20-30 minutes at 350°F, depending on the ingredients. Soups with softer vegetables or pre-cooked proteins cook faster, while heartier soups with beans or tougher vegetables might need closer to 40 minutes. Check periodically and stir halfway through for best results.
Do air fryer sides taste different than oven-roasted sides?
They’re actually pretty similar since air fryers work like small convection ovens. The main difference is that air fryers cook faster and tend to create an even crispier exterior because of the concentrated heat circulation. Some people prefer air fryer sides for that extra crunch.
What’s the best temperature for air frying vegetables?
Most vegetables do well at 375-400°F. Harder vegetables like potatoes and carrots can handle 400°F, while softer ones like zucchini or tomatoes are better at 350-375°F to prevent them from getting mushy. Always toss with a little oil for better browning.
Can I cook soup and sides at the same time in the air fryer?
It depends on your air fryer’s capacity, but generally, it’s tricky because soups need to be covered or in a sealed container, while sides need airflow. Your best bet is to cook them in batches—soup first, then sides. Or, if you have a multi-drawer air fryer, you can do both simultaneously.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer soups and sides aren’t going to revolutionize your entire cooking routine, but they will make weeknight dinners a lot less stressful. You get the convenience of one-pot cooking combined with the speed and efficiency of the air fryer, and the results are legitimately good.
The beauty of this approach is the flexibility. You can batch-cook soups for meal prep, whip up sides in minutes, and adjust recipes based on whatever’s in your fridge. There’s no rigid formula—just a method that works.
If you’re new to the whole air fryer thing, start simple. Pick one soup and one side from this list, try them out, and see how it goes. Once you get comfortable, you’ll start experimenting with your own combinations, and before you know it, you’ll be one of those people who swears by their air fryer. And honestly? There are worse things to be.