Air Fryer Carrot Fries are a flavorful, healthy side or snack the whole family will enjoy. They’re quick to make — ready in about 15 minutes — and pair perfectly with a spicy mayo or your favorite dipping sauce.
These air fryer carrot fries have become a favorite in our home. Kids and teens alike reach for seconds, especially when served with a tangy spicy mayo. Air frying gives vegetables a nicely roasted, slightly crispy exterior in a fraction of the time an oven requires. For this recipe, simply cut carrots into sticks, toss with a bit of oil and spices, then air fry until tender with browned edges. The carrots’ natural sweetness balances the savory seasonings.
Keep in mind they won’t have the exact texture of starchy French fries, but they’re a delicious, nutritious alternative — gluten free and vegetarian-friendly.
Ingredients and Notes
- Carrots: I used two medium carrots (about 13 oz). Choose thick, fleshy carrots for easy cutting into fry shapes. If using baby carrots, halve them lengthwise so they crisp more evenly. Store-bought carrot chips work as a shortcut.
- Oil: Olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil works well.
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika: Regular paprika is an acceptable substitute.
- Salt and ground black pepper: Season to taste.
How To Make Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Scroll below for the printable recipe card and exact ingredient measurements.
Prep the carrots: Trim and peel the carrots. Cut each into 2 or 3 equal sections, then slice each section into thin sticks. A French fry cutter can speed this up.
Season: Place the carrot sticks in a large bowl, add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper, then toss with the oil until evenly coated.
Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding; cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They should be tender, slightly crisp at the edges, and lightly browned.
Serve: Transfer the carrot fries to a plate and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and offer a dipping sauce — spicy mayo is a popular choice.
How To Serve Carrot Fries
- As a side with grilled or roasted proteins, such as chicken or steak.
- Alongside burgers as a lighter alternative to traditional fries.
- As a snack with spicy mayo, ketchup, ranch, or any preferred dip.
Seasoning Ideas
Try these variations to change the flavor profile:
- Cheesy: Toss grated Parmesan over the carrots before air frying for a savory finish.
- Spicy: Use Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, or lemon pepper in place of the basic spice mix.
- Sweet: For a dessert-like twist, toss carrots in melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon before air frying.
Tip for Extra Crispy Carrot Fries
- Toss the carrots with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch before adding oil and seasonings to help absorb moisture and encourage crisping.
- Use about 2 tablespoons of oil for the amount listed — don’t skip the oil, it helps promote browning and texture.
More Air Fryer Side Dish Recipes You’ll Love:
- Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Air Fryer Carrots
- Air Fryer Broccoli
- Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
- Air Fryer Cauliflower
Love air frying? Follow your favorite creators on social platforms or join an air frying community to swap tips and recipes.
Recipe
Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Equipment
-
Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 carrots medium sized, about ¾ to 1 pound
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
-
Trim and peel the carrots. Cut them into even pieces and slice into thin fries.
-
In a large bowl, toss the carrot sticks with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper, then coat with olive oil.
-
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the carrot fries in the basket in a single layer.
-
Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are tender, crisp, and slightly browned.
-
Remove and serve warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
- These carrot fries are best fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.