Air Fryer Carrots (Vegan, Vegetarian & Gluten-Free)

25 min | easy | clean eating, gluten-free, lactose-free, low-FODMAP, Mediterranean diet, paleo-friendly, vegan

Recipe by Eunice Published Feb 27, 2026

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time
10 min	15 min	25 min

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Introduction

These air fryer carrots turn simple pantry staples into caramelized, tender-crisp bites with barely any oil or effort.

They make an easy vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free side dish that works for busy weeknights, holidays, or meal prep.

Adjust servings: ½× 1× 2×

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Prep the carrots

Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into thick sticks or chunky diagonals for even cooking.
Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for 3 to 5 minutes so the carrots start cooking right away.
Season the carrots

Add the carrot pieces to a bowl, then toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until every piece is lightly coated.
Arrange in the basket

Place the seasoned carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space between pieces.
Air fry until tender

Cook for 12 to 16 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the carrots are browned in spots and fork tender.
Serve and adjust seasoning

Serve the carrots hot, taste, then add a little more salt or pepper, or a squeeze of lemon, if you like.

Swap olive oil with avocado oil: Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a higher smoke point and a very mild flavor that lets the carrots shine.
Use rainbow carrots instead of orange carrots: Try rainbow carrots for the same sweet flavor and texture, but with beautiful color that makes the side feel more special.
Replace black pepper with smoked paprika: Use smoked paprika instead of black pepper for a gentle smoky flavor and a softer heat that many kids prefer.

Cut carrots evenly for perfect texture: Try to keep every piece about the same thickness, so thinner pieces do not burn before thicker pieces soften.
Do not crowd the basket: If the basket is packed, the carrots steam instead of roast, and you lose that lovely browned, slightly crisp edge.
Adjust time for your air fryer: Different models run hotter, so check early the first time and note your ideal cooking time for future batches.
Shake for even browning: A quick shake halfway through helps expose more surfaces, so the carrots brown more evenly without drying out.
Add sweetness near the end: For caramelized edges, drizzle a teaspoon of maple syrup over the carrots during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Finish with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or dill adds color and a fresh flavor that balances the natural sweetness of the roasted carrots.

^* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?: Yes, baby carrots work well, but they are often wetter and may take a little longer to brown. Pat them dry, then cook, checking after 14 minutes and adding time if they still feel firm.
My carrots are burning at the tips; what can I do?: Cut any very thin ends off before cooking, or toss them in halfway through, so they cook less. You can also reduce the temperature to 360°F and add a few extra minutes for gentler roasting.
How can I make these carrots ahead of time?: Cook the carrots until just tender, then cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes, until hot and slightly crisp again.
Do I have to peel the carrots?: No, peeling is optional, as long as you scrub the carrots very well to remove any dirt or rough spots. Leaving the peel on adds a little more texture and saves prep time.
Can I add other seasonings to the carrots?: Yes, try garlic powder, onion powder, or dried Italian herbs for extra flavor. Add stronger spices lightly at first, since air frying intensifies them.