Air Fryer Eggplant Fries

Crispy air fryer eggplant fries are the answer when that craving for something savory hits but you want to keep things light These fries get an irresistibly golden crunch on the outside while staying perfectly tender inside and they are way easier than deep frying Perfect for snacking game nights or adding something special to dinner

My family never knows these fries are baked not fried Even my picky eater asked for seconds after the first batch because they tasted homemade and fresh not greasy

Ingredients

• Eggplant: choose firm small eggplants with glossy skin for the sweetest mildest flavor
• Eggs: act as the binder and help the coating stick better Beat them well for consistency
• Breadcrumbs: use panko for extra crunch or make your own with day-old bread for rustic texture
• Parmesan cheese: adds savory and nutty flavor that crisps beautifully while air frying Opt for real parmesan not the pre-grated kind for best results
• Smoked paprika: brings a subtle depth and color Spanish paprika really shines here
• Garlic powder: for a mellow all-over garlic note instead of sharp fresh garlic
• Flour: helps dry off the eggplant slices and gives the coating something to cling to Choose unbleached all-purpose flour for a neutral taste
• Oil spray: a little goes far in the air fryer Use a pure olive oil spray for best flavor and even browning

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant:

Slice the eggplant into long sticks about the size of steak fries Pat the pieces dry with a clean towel This removes moisture and helps them get crispier later

Salt and Rest:

Sprinkle salt over the eggplant sticks and let them sit in a colander for about fifteen minutes This draws out bitterness and excess water Rinse and pat thoroughly dry again

Set Up Your Breading Station:

Arrange three shallow bowls One with flour another with well-beaten eggs and the third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs parmesan cheese smoked paprika and garlic powder Stir the breadcrumb mixture to combine evenly

Coat the Eggplant:

Working with a few pieces at a time dredge eggplant sticks first in flour shake off excess then dip in egg letting the extra drip off before finally pressing into the breadcrumb mixture Gently press to help the coating really stick

Preheat and Arrange in Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit Let it preheat for several minutes Place the coated eggplant fries in a single layer with space between each one for airflow Work in batches if needed for best crisping

Air Fry Until Golden and Crunchy:

Spritz the fries lightly with oil spray Cook for eight to ten minutes Flip them halfway through and add another spritz after turning Fries are ready when they look deeply golden and crisp on the edges

Serve Immediately:

Transfer fries to a plate and let them cool for a minute Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce They are best eaten right away for the crispiest texture

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I love using smoky Spanish paprika in this recipe because it gives the fries a toasty warmth with almost no extra effort My grandmother always made eggplant fritters in summer and now I make these for my own family when we get fresh eggplant from the market

Storage Tips

Air fryer eggplant fries taste best fresh but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days To reheat pop them back in the air fryer for three to four minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit This brings back the exterior crunch without drying them out

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have parmesan try pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy free version For breadcrumbs gluten free panko or crushed rice cereal both work well You can swap smoked paprika for sweet paprika or add a pinch of cayenne if you like more heat

Serving Suggestions

Serve these fries with a garlicky marinara or creamy ranch on the side They pair well with burgers hearty grain salads or as a fun appetizer for a summer gathering Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish

Save

Try these eggplant fries for your next game night or family dinner Everyone will ask for the recipe and you will love how easy they are to make

Recipe Help

→ How do you cut eggplant for fries?

Slice eggplant into strips about 1/2 inch thick for uniform cooking and classic fry shape.

→ Do you peel the eggplant before air frying?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin adds texture, but it can be removed for a smoother fry.

→ What dip pairs well with eggplant fries?

Try smoky aioli, marinara sauce, or fresh tzatziki for added flavor.

→ How long do you cook eggplant fries in the air fryer?

Cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

→ How do you make eggplant fries crispy?

Lightly coat fries with breadcrumbs and spray with oil. Avoid overcrowding the basket.