Crispy Roasted Carrots from the Air Fryer: Simple Weeknight Side

These air fryer carrots roast to tender perfection in about 20 minutes. With just five simple ingredients, they make a quick, healthy side that’s easy to love.

Air fryer carrots in an air fryer basket.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

  • Only five pantry-friendly ingredients: carrots, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simple, fresh flavors let the carrots shine.
  • Perfectly seasoned and cooked until tender. The brief roasting time softens the carrots while concentrating their natural sweetness.
  • Super fast and easy. Toss the carrots with the seasonings, air fry, shake once halfway through, and they’re ready to serve.

Key Ingredients

Carrots – Rinse under cold water, peel if desired, trim the tops, and cut to your preferred size. Uniform pieces cook more evenly; roughly 2-inch lengths or slices work well.

Fresh Thyme – Fresh thyme adds a subtle, earthy note that complements roasted carrots. If you don’t have thyme, another mild fresh herb can be substituted.

Chef’s Tips

  • Carrot size affects cook time. If pieces are smaller or larger than those recommended, check at the halfway point and adjust the remaining time as needed.
  • For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra fresh herbs or a little grated Parmesan over the warm carrots. Keep additions light to preserve the carrot’s flavor.
  • These carrots are versatile—serve them as a side, mix into salads, or enjoy them at room temperature.
A plate of air fryer carrots.

Air Fryer Carrots

Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 25 minutes

With five simple ingredients, this recipe delivers a healthy, flavorful side in minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (see Notes)
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Large bowl

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the carrots, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are evenly coated, then transfer them to the air fryer basket.
  3. Roast in the preheated air fryer for 10 minutes. Remove the basket and shake or toss the carrots to promote even browning.
  4. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.
  5. Transfer the carrots to a serving bowl and serve warm.
Sliced carrots in a large bowl.
Air fryer carrots in an air fryer basket.

Notes

  • Olive oil: Any neutral vegetable oil or avocado oil can be used instead of olive oil. Avocado oil gives a mild flavor and a high smoke point.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 56 kcal | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 1 g | Total Carbs: 11 g | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 5 g

Values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed. Actual nutrition will vary with product brands and portion sizes.

© Author: Cheryl Malik
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