If you enjoy roasted carrots, these herb-and-garlic Air Fryer Carrots are a must-try. Tender and lightly caramelized, they’re seasoned simply and ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish, including peeling, chopping and seasoning. With just a handful of ingredients—fresh carrots, oil, dried herbs, garlic powder, salt and pepper—this side dish is effortless and versatile. It pairs well with salmon, pork or chicken, and you can easily swap herbs or spices for different flavor profiles (some suggestions are listed below).
This air fryer carrots recipe was first published in June 2020 with three flavor options and a wavy chip cut. The version below is simplified and reflects our current favorite method for quick, reliable results. It includes updated photos, clearer instructions and helpful tips to make the process straightforward.
Ingredients and substitutions
Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients and some easy substitutions. Exact amounts are included in the recipe card near the end.
- Carrots — Use 1 ½ lbs (about 6–7 medium carrots). You can also use baby carrots (see FAQ).
- Oil — Olive oil works well; substitute with extra virgin olive oil, canola or avocado oil. Melted butter can be used for a richer, buttery flavor.
- Herbs — Dried Italian seasoning is the default; swap in dried oregano, basil or thyme if preferred. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Garlic — Use garlic powder for even coating and to avoid burning. If you only have garlic salt, omit the added salt.
- Salt and pepper — Fine sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.
How to roast carrots in the air fryer
Below is a concise overview of the steps. The recipe card at the end includes exact times and quantities.
Seasoning variations
- Swap dried Italian seasoning for oregano, thyme, basil or rosemary.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the carrots just before serving.
- Sweet version: omit herbs and garlic, then toss with 1 ½ tablespoons honey or maple syrup.
- Spicy version: omit herbs and garlic, add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cumin and a pinch of cayenne.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to either the sweet or spicy versions for extra heat.
Storage and reheating tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 45–60 seconds or return to the air fryer at 380°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crisp edges.
Key recipe tips
- Single layer: Avoid overcrowding the basket so hot air can circulate and cook the carrots evenly.
- Even sizing: Cut carrots into uniform pieces so they cook at the same rate; adjust time for larger or smaller pieces.
- Shake the basket: Pause once or twice during cooking to shake or toss the carrots for even browning.
- Air fryer size: This recipe was tested in a 5.8‑quart air fryer. For smaller models, air fry in batches or add a few extra minutes and shake more often.
- Dried herbs: Dried herbs coat the carrots more evenly and hold up better during air frying than fresh herbs.
Recipe FAQs
Peeling is optional. If you keep the skins, wash and scrub the carrots thoroughly to remove dirt.
Yes—substitute 1 ½ lbs of baby carrots. They cook faster, so check at 7–8 minutes.
You can, but expect to increase cook time and shake the basket more often. Alternatively, cook in two batches for best results.
They’re done when fork-tender. If you prefer more caramelization, air fry a few minutes longer until edges brown to your liking.
More air fryer side dish recipes
- Air Fryer Snap Peas
- Air Fryer Beets
- Air Fryer Radishes
- Air Fryer Parmesan Potatoes
If you try this recipe, leave a comment to share how it turned out—I love hearing feedback and answering questions.
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Carrots (Garlic Herb)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs carrots (6–7 medium)
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Peel (optional), wash and pat the carrots dry. Slice into 1‑inch pieces, cutting on a diagonal if you like.
- Place carrots in a bowl and toss with the oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 380°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice, until the carrots are fork-tender and slightly caramelized. Serve with additional salt, pepper and chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Cook in a single layer for best results; don’t overcrowd the basket.
- Cut carrots evenly so they cook uniformly; adjust time for different sizes.
- Shake the basket once or twice during cooking to promote even browning.
- If your air fryer is smaller than 5.8 quarts, work in batches or add a few extra minutes and shake more frequently.
- Dried herbs hold up better in the air fryer and coat the carrots more evenly than fresh herbs.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
Carbohydrates: 11 g |
Protein: 1 g |
Fat: 6 g |
Sodium: 369 mg |
Fiber: 3 g |
Vitamin A: 17843 IU
Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary based on ingredient choices and substitutions.