air fryer carrots recipe

Carrots You Can’t Help But Love

A super-easy and nutritious veggie side that my kids actually love? Yes, please. ♡

These air fryer carrots turn out beautifully caramelized on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of that naturally sweet, roasted flavor we all love — but they’re ready in a fraction of the time it takes to bake them in the oven. All you need are a few simple ingredients and your air fryer to make this quick, no-fuss side that somehow always disappears fast.

We honestly love these carrots made simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper. (They’re still so sweet!) Or you can have fun dressing them up with a drizzle of honey, balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs and seasonings. However you make them, these air fryer carrots are one of those easy wins you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. They’re always a hit in our house!

air fryer carrots ingredients

Recipe Tips

Here are a few quick tips to ensure that these carrots turn out perfectly each time:

  • Cut evenly: Uniform pieces help the carrots cook evenly and finish at the same time.
  • Don’t overcrowd: Give the carrots room to crisp! If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook this recipe in two batches.
  • Check early: Cooking times can vary slightly between air fryer models, so I’d start recommend checking them around the 14-minute mark.
  • Add sweetness: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup after cooking beautifully complements the carrots’ natural flavor.
air fryer carrots before and after

Seasoning Options

Here are a few different ways that you can season these air fryer carrots if you’d like!

  • Savory: Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cumin before air frying.
  • Sweet: Toss with a touch of brown sugar or cinnamon.
  • Herby: Mix in thyme, rosemary, or dill for a fresh flavor boost.
  • Spicy: Sprinkle with chili flakes or cayenne for a little kick.
  • Glazed: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey butter right before serving for extra shine and flavor.
air fryer carrots in air fryer basket

FAQ

can i use baby carrots?

Yes, they actually work perfect! Just note that they may cook a few minutes faster since they’re thinner.

do i need to preheat the air fryer?

It’s optional, but preheating helps the carrots start crisping right away.

do i need to peel the carrots?

Nope! We usually just give them a good scrub and leave the skins on for extra nutrients and a more rustic look. But you’re welcome to peel them if you prefer.

air fryer carrots on platter

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Air Fryer Carrots

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  • Author: Ali
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 20 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These easy air fryer carrots are perfectly caramelized, tender, and naturally sweet — a simple veggie side dish everyone will love!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound carrots, scrubbed (or peeled), halved, and chopped into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, flaky sea salt, drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze


Instructions

  1. Peel and cut carrots into even sticks or rounds.
  2. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender inside and crisp on the edges.
  4. Garnish as desired and serve warm.


About Ali

Hi, I'm Ali Martin! I created this site in 2009 to celebrate good food and gathering around the table. I live in Kansas City with my husband and two young boys and love creating simple, reliable, delicious recipes that anyone can make!

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