These are the crispiest air fryer carrot fries! Made with just five ingredients in under 20 minutes, they're the perfect healthier side dish—crispy, crunchy, and so delicious.
French fries will always have a special place in my heart, but these carrot fries might give them a run for their money! They're crispy, flavorful, and incredibly delicious.
Most air fryer carrot fries turn out soft, but not these… they're SO CRISPY. The secret? Cornstarch! It adds that extra crunch without needing to deep-fry.
All you need is five ingredients and 20 minutes, and these carrot fries are ready. They're simple enough for any level cook to make, and I've included step-by-step photos below to guide you visually.
We love serving these crispy carrot fries with ranch or Caesar dip—so yummy!
Why you'll love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: the fries are ready in under 20 minutes!
- No Deep Frying: They are super crispy without deep frying.
- Best Flavor: Naturally sweet carrots with savory seasoning.
- Great for Dipping: Try this healthy ranch!
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings for a unique twist.
- Healthy and Guilt-Free: A lighter alternative to regular fries.
Ingredients
This air fryer carrot fries recipe calls for five ingredients. Here is a list of everything you need:
- Carrots: Use large carrots. Peeling is optional, but you can if you prefer.
- Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: For a light coating that helps the fries crisp up perfectly.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add a flavorful kick.
- Cornstarch: Helps the fries get extra crispy.
- Salt: Season to taste for the perfect finish!
Step-by-step instructions
Crispy air fryer carrot fries are quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
In a large bowl, toss carrot sticks with avocado or olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the carrots in a single layer.
Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, shaking halfway. Cook for 5 more minutes or until golden and crispy, checking every 5 minutes if needed.
Let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful carrot fries!
Top tips
- Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for the crispiest fries. If needed, cook in batches to ensure the carrots get that perfect crisp.
- Use Cornstarch: Cornstarch is key to getting those crispy edges. Please don't skip it! If you don't have cornstarch, tapioca flour or arrowroot starch works well too.
- Shake the Basket: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness on all sides of the carrot fries.
- Adjust Cooking Time: All air fryers are different, so check the fries for crispiness as you go. If needed, continue cooking in 5-minute intervals until they're golden brown.
Substitutions & Variations
- Customize Them: Try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after the fries are cooked for a fun twist!
- Oil: You can use avocado oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or your favorite cooking spray.
- Cornstarch: Use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
- Seasonings: Try onion powder, cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning instead of garlic powder or smoked paprika.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the fries aren't crispy enough, it could be due to overcrowding the basket, too much moisture on the carrots, or not using enough oil or cornstarch. Try cooking in batches and making sure the fries are evenly coated.
Yes, you can skip the oil for a lower-fat, lower-calorie version. However, make sure to use avocado oil or olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
Yes, tapioca flour or arrowroot starch are great substitutes. Don't skip the starch entirely—it's key for getting the fries extra crispy!
Yes! You can bake them at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While they may not be as crispy as in the air fryer, they'll still be delicious!
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Did you make this recipe?
Please remember to leave a review and let me know how it turned out! Also, tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram with #healthfulblondie. I love seeing and sharing your creations!
📖 Recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Ingredients
- 3 large carrots, cut into sticks (LOOK AT PICTURES)
- 1-2 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon nutritional yeast, optional
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, or tapioca flour or arrowroot starch
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss the carrot sticks with oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast (if using), and salt.
- Add the cornstarch and toss again until the carrots are evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray the basket with avocado oil.
- Place the carrot sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes. NO OVERLAPPING! Shake the basket or flip the fries halfway through.
- Air fry for an additional 5 minutes to crisp them up. If they’re not crispy enough, continue cooking in 5-minute intervals, checking frequently. (Note: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer.)
- Let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving. I love this healthy ranch dip. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
I only recommend products I love and use myself. In full disclosure, I may receive a small compensation for purchasing a product I recommend. Thank you for supporting Healthful Blondie!
Tatiana says
SO GOOD! THE BEST!