Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans

Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans are a quick and flavorful side dish or snack that combines tender green beans with a golden, cheesy crunch. Using the air fryer means you get that irresistible crispiness with less oil and faster cooking time—perfect for busy weeknights or healthier snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and cheesy with minimal oil
• Quick cooking time in the air fryer
• Kid-friendly and great as a side or appetizer
• Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings
• A healthier alternative to deep-fried veggies

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh green beans, trimmed
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
• Optional: lemon wedges or dipping sauce for serving

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add grated Parmesan and optional breadcrumbs, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Place green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed.
5. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3 to 4 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Use Italian seasoning or ranch powder for a flavor boost
• Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to make it dairy-free
• Mix in crushed almonds or pecans for a nutty twist
• Try it with frozen green beans (no thawing needed—just add a few minutes to the cook time)

storage/reheating

Store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, return them to the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed and crispy.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just add 2–3 extra minutes to the air fry time.

Do I need to blanch the green beans first?

No, fresh green beans go straight into the air fryer without any pre-cooking needed.

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds the best flavor, but pre-grated works too.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Why aren’t my green beans getting crispy?

Make sure not to overcrowd the basket and use enough oil to lightly coat the beans.

Can I use other vegetables with this method?

Absolutely—try asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli using the same process.

What dipping sauces pair well with these?

Ranch, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or marinara all taste great with crispy green beans.

Are these healthy?

Yes, they’re lower in fat than deep-fried versions and still packed with flavor and crunch.

Can I cook them without breadcrumbs?

Yes, just use Parmesan and seasonings. They’ll still get crispy without added crumbs.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

For best results and even cooking, preheating is recommended.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans are a fast, tasty, and healthier side dish that delivers big on flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving them alongside dinner or enjoying them as a snack, these cheesy, garlicky green beans are a guaranteed hit—and they’re ready in minutes thanks to your air fryer.

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