Green beans have always been a staple side dish in my kitchen, but when I discovered how to turn them into crispy fries using my air fryer, everything changed. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how quickly you can whip it up. It’s a guilt-free snack or side that is crunchy, flavorful, and completely satisfying.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional French fries, these Air Fryer Green Bean Fries are the perfect choice. With the air fryer doing all the work, you’ll get crispy green beans without the need for deep frying or excess oil. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying that satisfying crispiness!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans work perfectly for this recipe. Fresh green beans provide the best texture, but frozen beans are a convenient option. Make sure to thaw them completely before use.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the green beans crisp up in the air fryer. It also adds a nice, subtle flavor. You can substitute with other oils like avocado oil if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs give the green beans that perfect crunchy exterior. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for the lightest, crispiest texture, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor to the fries. It melts beautifully during cooking, giving the green beans a golden, cheesy crust.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder infuses the fries with a mild garlic flavor, making each bite savory and aromatic.
Salt and Pepper: These are essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavor of the green beans.
Paprika: A touch of paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a little bit of heat to the fries, balancing out the other flavors.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
How to Make Air Fryer Green Bean Fries
Step 1: Prep the Green Beans
Start by washing and trimming the green beans to remove any tough ends. If you’re using fresh green beans, snap or cut off the ends. Once they’re prepped, dry them well with a paper towel to ensure they crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Coat the Green Beans
In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated. Then, in a separate shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dip each green bean into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks.
Step 3: Air Fry the Green Beans
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap too much for even cooking. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the green bean fries are done, serve them immediately while they’re hot and crispy. You can dip them in your favorite sauces, such as ranch dressing or a spicy aioli, for extra flavor.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use Fresh Green Beans: For the best texture, fresh green beans work wonders. However, frozen green beans will also do the trick. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: If you’re making a larger batch, air fry in batches to ensure the green beans crisp up evenly.
- Add Extra Seasonings: Feel free to play around with the seasoning mix. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking can add an extra zing!
- Dip for Extra Flavor: Pair your crispy green bean fries with your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor, such as spicy ranch, garlic butter, or ketchup.
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Green Bean Fries without breadcrumbs? Yes, you can use crushed cornflakes, almond flour, or even a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative if you prefer a different texture or need a gluten-free option.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover green bean fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 375°F to get them crispy again.
Can I make these in advance? While it’s best to serve them immediately for the crispiest texture, you can prep the green beans ahead of time by coating them and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Can I use other vegetables for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes in place of the green beans. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size of the vegetable slices.