Crispy Carrot Fries (Baked or Air Fried) Recipe
A delicious and healthier take on fries, these Crispy Carrot Fries can be baked or air fried to perfection. Coated with smoked paprika, garlic, onion powders, and parmesan cheese, they offer a flavorful and crispy snack or side that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes (baking) or 12-16 minutes (air frying)
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Carrot Fries
- 2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4 inch-thick sticks
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the carrots: Preheat your oven or air fryer to 425°F. Peel the carrots, trim the root and ends, then cut them crosswise in half. Cut each half lengthwise into sticks about 1/4 inch thick. For the thicker tops of the carrots, cut lengthwise again to ensure even thickness and cooking.
- Mix seasonings and cheese: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Coat the carrots: Place the carrot sticks in a large bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over them and toss to coat evenly. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots, then sprinkle the seasoning mix on top. Use your hands to toss everything together until the carrot sticks are evenly coated with seasonings and cheese.
- Bake the carrot fries: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the carrots are fork tender, golden brown, and the parmesan has formed a crispy crust.
- Air fry the carrot fries: Alternatively, arrange the carrots in an even layer inside the air fryer basket (working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Air fry at 425°F for 12-16 minutes, until fork-tender and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the fries to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure carrot sticks are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- If dairy-free, use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or spices as preferred.
- Dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup complement these fries well.
