Air Fryer Potatoes and Carrots

5 from 1 vote

Craving crispy, delicious veggies without all the fuss? Look no further! Our Air Fryer Potatoes and Carrots recipe is a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick trip to the air fryer, you'll have a healthy, flavorful side dish that's ready to steal the show. No more soggy veggies or endless oil-frying! Get ready to impress your taste buds (and your family) with this easy-peasy recipe.

A close up view of carrots and potatoes on a white plate with sliced ham.

This easy air fryer potatoes and carrots recipe not only delivers on taste and convenience but also provides a nutritious side dish that complements a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

The crispy texture combined with the seasoned coating makes them a hit among those who love dishes with a satisfying crunch.

Whether you are serving them alongside a main course or enjoying them as a snack, you can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Add more spices, change up the herbs, or use different types of potatoes or carrots for a variety of flavors.

These air fryer potatoes and carrots fit the bill, whether it's a casual family dinner, a festive holiday meal, or a last-minute gathering. They are simple enough for a weekday but can be dressed up with garnishes like parsley and additional seasoning blends for special occasions.

For more easy side dish recipes to make in your air fryer, check out my Air Fryer Broccoli from Frozen, Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes, Air Fryer Mushrooms, Air Fryer Carrots, and Caramelized Air Fryer Butternut Squash!

A top view of carrots and potatoes on a white plate with sliced ham.

Ingredients Needed for Easy Air Fryer Potatoes and Carrots

New Potatoes - You can choose from Red Baby Potatoes, Yukon Gold, or any small, round potato. New potatoes are great because they have a waxy texture that holds up well during air frying, resulting in a crispy outside and a soft, creamy inside. If you don’t have new potatoes, any other type of potato will do. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
Baby Carrots - Baby carrots are sweet and perfectly sized for even cooking alongside the potatoes. If you have larger carrots, cut them in half to ensure they cook at the same rate as the potatoes.
Olive Oil - Olive oil helps to crisp up the outer layer of the vegetables while keeping them moist inside. It also helps the seasonings stick to the vegetables. Avocado oil can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a higher smoke point or a slightly different flavor profile.
Italian Seasonings - This blend of herbs adds a robust flavor to the vegetables, complementing their natural sweetness. If you don’t have a pre-made blend, you can create your own with dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
Minced Garlic - Garlic provides a punch of flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the dish. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese - Adding Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking gives a delicious salty and umami flavor boost that turns simple roasted vegetables into a decadent treat. Nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative can provide a similar cheesy flavor for a dairy-free option.

A top view of carrots and potatoes in a glass bowl.

How to Make Air Fryer Potatoes and Carrots

Start by gathering all your ingredients and a large mixing bowl. Thoroughly wash the new potatoes, and cut them into quarters or halves ensuring that each piece is roughly the same size, promoting even cooking. If you're using large carrots then cut them in half; otherwise, leave them whole for a lovely presentation.
Once your vegetables are prepared, toss them in the large bowl with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Mixing them until they're fully coated ensures that each piece will be evenly seasoned, which enhances their flavor as they cook. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious, herbaceous outer crust that makes air-fried vegetables so satisfying.

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a hot environment that crisps the vegetables nicely. Begin by placing the seasoned potatoes on a piece of parchment paper inside the basket. The parchment paper is optional but can help prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Air fry carrots and potatoes for 10 minutes, then toss and continue to air fry them for another 7-9 minutes. The exact time might vary depending on your air fryer model and how crispy you like your vegetables.

A top view of carrots and potatoes in an air fryer basket.

A side view of carrots and potatoes in an air fryer basket.

Once your potatoes and carrots are crispy on the edges and soft and tender inside, it's time to add a final flourish. Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese over the hot vegetables right after they come out of the air fryer. The heat from the potatoes and carrots will melt the cheese slightly, creating a wonderfully savory finish that complements the crisp texture and roasted flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with other vegetables?

Absolutely! This air fryer method works well with a variety of vegetables. Try air frying broccoli, green beans, or sweet potatoes using the same method, adjusting the cooking time accordingly for different vegetables based on their density.

How do I know when the potatoes and carrots are perfectly cooked?

The potatoes and carrots are perfectly cooked when they are golden brown on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. The edges should be crispy, and the insides should feel soft. If unsure, taste test a piece to ensure it's cooked to your liking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and carrots up to a day in advance. Keep them seasoned in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then simply pop them in the air fryer when ready to cook. This can save you time and streamline meal prep for busy days.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover air fryer potatoes and carrots?

To retain the crispy texture, reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until they are warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Is parchment paper necessary for air frying?

Parchment paper is not necessary but can be helpful. It minimizes sticking and makes cleanup easier. Ensure that the parchment paper is perforated or that you use one specifically designed for air fryers to allow for proper air circulation.

Can I stack the potatoes and carrots in the air fryer?

For the best results, avoid stacking. Air fry in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness. If you have a small air fryer and need to cook in batches, it might take a little longer but will yield much better results.

Can I use the Instant Pot to make this recipe?

Yes, you can! In fact, I have Roasted Potatoes and Carrots Recipe in the Instant Pot you can check out!

Storage & Freezing

Storage: Store cooled leftover air fryer potatoes and carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Once the've cooled, seal any leftover air fryer carrots and potatoes tightly in a Ziploc bag or freezer-safe container, and store them in the freezer for 6-8 months. Reheat at 400 degrees F in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes when you're ready to eat them.

Substitutions & Variations

Instead of new potatoes, you can use sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste and a boost of beta-carotene. Adjust the cooking time as sweet potatoes may cook a bit quicker.
Swap baby carrots for whole carrots that have been peeled and cut into sticks or coins. This can add a rustic feel and a slightly different texture.
Change the size and shape of your potato cuts. Try slicing them into fries or cubes for a different texture and faster cooking time.
Experiment with different flavors - try glazing with a mixture of maple syrup or brown sugar and a little bit of mustard before air frying for a sweet and tangy version.
If you're looking for an alternative to olive oil, avocado oil is a great choice due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Customize the flavor profile by using different seasonings and herbs. Rosemary or thyme work well with roast vegetables, and for a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or ground black pepper.
If you are vegan or lactose intolerant, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
For a heartier dish, consider adding chunks of sausage or bacon before air frying. This can turn your side dish into a satisfying main course.
Toss in some chickpeas or cubed tofu for added protein, making it a complete vegan meal.
Use other root vegetables such as parsnips, or mix in other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Pro Tips

Always preheat your air fryer before adding your vegetables. This ensures that the cooking starts immediately and helps achieve an even crispiness.
Arrange the potatoes and carrots in a single layer with some space in between to allow good circulation for the hot air. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
Don't be shy with your seasonings. Potatoes and carrots will handle bold flavors, so be liberal with oil and seasonings. This not only adds taste but also aids in getting that golden, crispy exterior.
Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or dill after cooking adds a burst of freshness that complements the roasted flavors.
Ensure that all your potatoes and carrots are cut to similar sizes for even cooking. Inconsistent sizes will lead to overcooking and undercooking.
Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or use tongs to turn the vegetables. This promotes even cooking and helps all sides get a nice crisp.
Consider using parchment paper in the basket of your air fryer, with holes or a perforated liner specifically designed for air fryers. This can help reduce sticking and make cleanup easier.
Keep an eye on the vegetables as they cook. All air fryers vary slightly, so the first time you try a new recipe, it’s a good idea to check periodically to avoid overcooking.
Serve hot for the best texture. If you're serving them as a side dish, try pairing them with a main dish that complements their hearty, rustic flavors, like grilled meats or creamy pasta.
Consider finishing with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or a drizzle of infused oil (like garlic or chili oil) for an extra touch of flavor right before serving.

Have you tried this Air Fryer Carrots and Potatoes recipe?

Please leave a comment below if you have tried making this recipe. I love to hear from you and enjoy reading about what you think. Be sure to tag @devourdinner when posting to social media. I can't wait to see your photos!

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