Craving fries but want something a little lighter? These crispy air fryer carrot fries are the ultimate guilt-free alternative. They're golden, crisp, full of flavor, and come together in under 20 minutes.
Fries are a comfort food classic, but carrots? Total underdog. When you slice them just right and toss them in the air fryer, magic happens. These crispy air fryer carrot fries are especially perfect during spring and summer when fresh carrots are at their peak, and they’re ideal for BBQS, veggie-loaded dinners, or a snack that even picky kids will devour.
This recipe was inspired by my obsession with sneaky vegetable swaps. These taste way better than you'd think and pair like a dream with our pesto chicken sliders or beetroot and black bean burgers.
Jump to:
💖 Why This Recipe Works
- Full of flavor: The natural sweetness of carrots + savory spices = fry heaven.
- Vegan & gluten-free: Allergy-friendly and low-carb too.
- Kid-approved: They won’t even realize they’re eating vegetables.
- Healthier than fries: All the crisp without the deep-fried guilt.
🥕 Ingredients
These deliciously crispy carrot fries are an easy 4-ingredient vegan side or healthy snack! Here’s what you'll need:
- Carrots: Skip the baby carrots and go for big, hearty whole ones. They’re easier to cut into fry shapes and hold up better in the air fryer.
- Olive Oil: (The secret to crispiness). A light drizzle helps those spices stick and gives you that golden, satisfying crunch. Avocado or canola oil work too!
- Garlic Powder: It adds that savory, salty vibe that makes these taste like legit fries—without the grease.
- Salt: Every good fry needs it. Want lower sodium? Try a salt substitute and you’re good to go.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- Low-oil option – Use a light spritz of olive oil spray instead of drizzling oil.
- Spice it up – Give your air fryer carrot fries a smoky twist with cayenne or smoked paprika.
- Sweet & savory – Try a dash of cinnamon or maple syrup for a fun flavor flip.
- Cheesy & zesty – Sprinkle on a bit of shredded Parmesan and lemon juice before cooking for a tangy, savory finish.
🔪 How To Make Carrot Fries In Air Fryer
- Step 1: Peel and slice carrots into even sticks.
- Step 2: Place the carrot sticks in a medium-sized bowl and coat with olive oil. Then, sprinkle your salt and garlic powder to season.
- Step 3: Next, spread your carrots out in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them. You want there to be room for airflow to make your air fryer carrot fries nice and crispy.
- Step 4: Turn your air fryer to 370° F. Air fry for 10 minutes. Garnish your seasoned carrots with chopped parsley or a herb of your choice. Serve and Enjoy the best carrot fries around!
💡 Hint: For even crispier results, preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding the carrots. A hot basket gives you that instant sizzle and crunch! And don’t skip shaking the basket halfway—it's the secret to evenly golden fries.
Looking for a dip or creamy side to serve with your carrot fries! Try this tasty smoked salmon dip or our high-protein baked spinach ricotta.
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Cut evenly – Consistent sizing = evenly crisped fries.
- Shake it up – Give the basket a toss halfway for max crunch.
- Preheat for success – A preheated air fryer delivers better texture.
- Batch it – Don’t crowd the basket or your fries might steam instead of crisp.
💭 FAQs
Toss them in a little cornstarch and don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Crispiness needs space!
You can! Just slice them thinner so they cook evenly and keep an eye on the time.
Garlic powder, paprika, cumin—even Parmesan! Don’t be afraid to mix it up.
Too much moisture or a crowded basket. Pat them dry and give them room to crisp.
Yep! Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway for golden, crispy goodness.
💖 Serving Suggestions
These crispy carrot fries are fab solo but even better with:
- Garlic Parmesan Aioli – creamy, rich, and garlicky goodness.
- Beetroot Hummus – veggie-on-veggie deliciousness.
- Instant Pot Salsa Dip – adds a spicy zing.
- Mango Pineapple Salsa – tropical twist that’s unexpectedly perfect.
- Air Fryer Cod Fillet or Cheesy Onion Rings – complete that plate with bold, savory mains.
Looking for the perfect veggie-packed summer meal? Pair these fries with our Beetroot and Black Bean Burgers and a chilled Mango Pineapple Smoothie.
🍽 More Crispy Air Fryer Veggies
Did you make this recipe? Leave a review and a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below or share your dip pairings in the comments!
Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Carrots Sliced
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- First, use a potato peeler to peel the skin off your carrots. Then, cut the carrots in half lengthwise and cut them into thirds.
- Place the carrot sticks in a medium-sized bowl and coat with olive oil. Then, sprinkle your salt and garlic powder to season.
- Next, spread your carrots out in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them. You want there to be room for airflow to make your air fryer carrot fries nice and crispy.
- Turn your air fryer to 370° F. Air Frying for 10-minutes.
- Garnish your seasoned carrots with chopped parsley or a herb of your choice. Serve and Enjoy the best carrot fries around!
Notes
- Cut evenly – Consistent sizing = evenly crisped fries.
- Shake it up – Give the basket a toss halfway for max crunch.
- Preheat for success – A preheated air fryer delivers better texture.
- Batch it – Don’t crowd the basket or your fries might steam instead of crisp.
If you haven’t tried these air fryer carrot fries yet, you’re seriously missing out! They’re the perfect mix of crispy, healthy, and totally addictive. Such an easy win for snack time or as a fun side dish!