Short description

These crispy air fryer carrot fries are a healthy and flavorful alternative to regular fries, seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese. They’re quick to make and perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy and flavorful: The air fryer gives these carrot fries a perfect crispy texture without the extra oil.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a fast and convenient snack or side dish.
Healthy: Made with fresh carrots and minimal ingredients, these fries are lower in calories and full of nutrients.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste or add your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Kid-friendly: A great way to get kids to enjoy their veggies in a fun, fry-like form.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 large carrots
Avocado oil spray
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
3 tbsp parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Prepare the carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into thin matchsticks or fry-like shapes. Try to keep the pieces roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
Season the carrots: In a bowl, toss the cut carrots with avocado oil spray, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and parmesan cheese until they are evenly coated.
Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for a few minutes.
Air fry the carrots: Place the seasoned carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Cook the fries: Air fry for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. The fries should be golden and crispy around the edges.
Serve: Once done, sprinkle with extra parmesan or chili flakes if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dip.

Servings and timing

Serves 2-3 (depending on portion size)
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: 8-12 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Herb-infused: Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an added burst of flavor.
Cheesy option: Top the fries with more grated parmesan or even a drizzle of melted cheese after cooking.
Vegan version: Omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for about 3-4 minutes to regain their crispiness. You can also use an oven at the same temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of large carrots?

Yes, you can use baby carrots, but you may need to cut them into thinner pieces to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer fries?

Absolutely! You can add other veggies like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or parsnips, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since different vegetables have varying cooking times.

3. How do I make sure the fries are crispy?

Make sure the carrot pieces are cut evenly, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps ensure even crisping.

4. Can I make these without parmesan cheese?

Yes! You can omit the parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative, or simply season with more herbs or spices.

5. Can I make these in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the carrot fries in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

6. Are these fries suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these carrot fries can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and reheated in the air fryer for a quick and healthy snack.

7. How can I make these fries extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, ensure that the carrots are not overcrowded in the air fryer and shake the basket halfway through cooking. You can also increase the cooking time by a few minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

8. Can I use a different type of oil for spraying?

Yes, you can use other oils like olive oil or coconut oil, but avocado oil works well because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor.

9. How do I cut the carrots into fries?

Peel the carrots, then cut them into even matchstick-like pieces. Try to make them thin and uniform so they cook evenly.

10. Can I make these fries without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also pan-fry them in a little oil for a stovetop version.

Conclusion

These air fryer carrot fries are a deliciously healthy alternative to regular fries, offering a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory flavor. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, they’re a great snack, side dish, or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as they are or add your favorite toppings, these fries are sure to become a go-to favorite!