Published:
Feb 16th 2025
by 
Last updated: Feb 18th 2025
Looking for a quick and delicious side dish? These Air Fryer Baby Carrots are sweet, tender, and perfectly seasoned for a flavorful bite. Unlike full-sized carrots, baby carrots require no peeling, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights. Roasted in the air fryer, they develop a beautiful caramelization that enhances their natural sweetness, while Italian seasoning and garlic powder add depth to every bite. Whether paired with a hearty main course or served as a nutritious snack, these air fryer carrots are a simple yet satisfying addition to your meal.
Serve with Crockpot Tuscan Chicken for a fuss-free dinner.
Pro Tip - Fast & Easy: No peeling or chopping required—just season and air fry!
- Healthier Alternative: Uses minimal oil, making it a light and nutritious side dish.
- Crispy & Caramelized: The air fryer locks in flavor while giving the carrots a deliciously crisp texture.
- Versatile Pairing: Complements a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian meals.
- Pat the carrots dry before seasoning to help the spices stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—spread the carrots in a single layer for even cooking.
- Shake the basket halfway through for uniform caramelization.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—add a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or tofu steaks.
- Pair with hummus or yogurt-based dips for a delicious appetizer.
- Add to grain bowls or salads for an extra burst of flavor.
- Swap Italian seasoning for smoked paprika or curry powder for a twist.
- Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a neutral taste.
- Add honey or maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Toss with balsamic vinegar after air frying for added depth.
- Short-Term Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Air fry for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.
- Long-Term Storage: Not ideal for freezing, as carrots lose their texture.
- Reusability: Add leftovers to salads, grain bowls, or omelets.
- Baby Carrots: Naturally sweet and require no prep.
- Olive Oil: Helps with caramelization and crisping in the air fryer.
- Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs for extra flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savoriness of the dish.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Balances the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness.
Do baby carrots get soft when cooked?
Baby carrots soften when cooked.
Is it better to steam or boil carrots?
It's better to steam carrots as less vitamin C is lost in the water due to the shorter cooking time.
Are fried carrots healthy?
Fried carrots can be a healthy addition to your diet, depending on the cooking method and oil used. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants, which offer numerous health benefits, including improved vision and reduced risk of certain cancers.
Source: Nutrition and Health Benefits of Carrots - Healthline
Is it good to eat carrots at night?
Yes, it's good to eat carrots at night as carrots contain alpha-carotene, which may make it easier for you to fall asleep.
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes! Just cut them into uniform-sized pieces for even cooking.
Why are my carrots not crispy?
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer, and pat them dry before adding oil.
Can I cook frozen baby carrots in the air fryer?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes and shake the basket frequently.
How to Make Air Fryer Baby Carrots
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss baby carrots with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Once golden and caramelized, transfer to a serving dish and enjoy while warm!
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1 pound Baby Carrots, patted dry
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
To a large bowl, add baby carrots, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
Place the baby carrots in the air fryer in a single layer.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket at the 5 or 6-minute mark.
Transfer to a serving bowl.
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