15-Minute Air Fryer Eggplant Fries: Irresistibly Crispy Treat
Introduction
If you’re searching for the ultimate healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on crunch or flavor, these 15-Minute Air Fryer Eggplant Fries are your answer. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you’ll get gorgeously crispy fries with virtually no oil—perfect for guilt-free snacking or as a standout appetizer at any gathering.
With a savory coating and tender interior, this recipe makes the most out of humble eggplant, transforming it into a crave-worthy, crispy treat that both kids and adults will love.
Why Air Fryer Eggplant Fries Are a Must-Try
The air fryer’s hot circulating air turns eggplant into fries that are crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and ready in minutes. Unlike deep-fried alternatives, they require minimal oil, making them a healthier option for anyone watching calories or fat intake. Plus, these fries are versatile: enjoy them as a side, pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, or serve them as a plant-based game-day snack.
Get the Perfect Prep
For even, consistent fries (and less mess), use a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to quickly slice your eggplant into perfectly sized sticks. This tool takes the guesswork out of prepping and ensures every fry cooks at the same rate.
Once chopped, sprinkle your eggplant with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture, making for a more satisfyingly crisp fry. Don’t forget to blot them dry before coating.
Coating and Cooking the Eggplant Fries
To achieve that restaurant-quality crisp, toss your eggplant sticks in a light dredge of seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan. Arrange the coated fries in a single layer in your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 for even cooking. For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, line the air fryer basket with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or use Air Fryer Paper Liners.
A quick spray of olive oil from the YARRAMATE 16oz/470ml Oil Sprayer for Cooking adds just enough fat to lock in flavor and crunch.
Serving Suggestions: Dip into Crispy Bliss
Eggplant fries are best served hot, straight out of the air fryer. Pair them with marinara, garlic aioli, or your favorite herby Greek yogurt sauce for dipping.
To keep leftovers crispy, store them in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers—though they’re so delicious, you may not have any leftovers at all!
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe serves 4 and, depending on your breading, averages about 110–130 calories and 4g of fat per serving—a far cry from the calories in regular fries. With minimal oil, you’re getting fiber and nutrients without compromise.
15-Minute Air Fryer Eggplant Fries: Irresistibly Crispy Treat (Recap)
These air fryer eggplant fries are quick to prepare, delightfully crunchy, and a true crowd-pleaser. With such bold flavor and hearty texture, they’re likely to become your new go-to snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the eggplant into uniform sticks using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for ease and consistency.
- Sprinkle the eggplant with salt and set aside for 10 minutes. Pat thoroughly dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a bowl, combine the panko, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Dredge the eggplant sticks in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
- Line the basket of your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or use Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs, 8” Square by Baker’s Signature. Arrange the fries in a single layer, working in batches as needed.
- Lightly spray the fries with oil using the YARRAMATE 16oz/470ml Oil Sprayer for Cooking. Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Enjoy your crispy, flavor-packed eggplant fries—ready in no time!
