These crispy air fryer carrots are a quick and flavorful side dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Coated in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, they turn perfectly tender inside with a crispy, caramelized exterior. A final sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley adds a delicious finishing touch. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a healthy snack!
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal effort.
- Healthy & Flavorful – Air frying creates a crispy exterior without excess oil.
- Customizable – Easily switch up seasonings or add different herbs.
- Kid-Friendly – A delicious way to encourage eating more veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 medium carrots – Washed, dried, and cut into uniform sticks or rounds for even cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps crisp up the carrots. You can substitute with melted butter, avocado oil, or coconut oil.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky flavor. You can swap with onion powder if preferred.
- Salt & pepper (to taste) – Enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – Brightens up the dish. You can also use fresh thyme, dill, or rosemary.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Wash, dry, and peel the carrots if desired. Cut them into even sticks or rounds to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Season the Carrots
Place the carrots in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to evenly coat each piece.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Spread the carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so they crisp up properly. If making a larger batch, cook in multiple batches.
Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy
Set the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook for 12 minutes. Shake the basket or stir the carrots halfway through to ensure even cooking. The carrots should be fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. If needed, add 1-2 extra minutes for a crispier texture.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Transfer the cooked carrots to a serving plate. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Yes! However, baby carrots contain more moisture and may take slightly longer to crisp up. Add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
