15-Minute Air Fryer Eggplant Fries

Crispy, golden, and absolutely irresistible—these Air Fryer Eggplant Fries are a quick and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. With just a handful of ingredients and 15 minutes, you’ll have a batch of crunchy, savory fries perfect for dipping into marinara, ranch, or your favorite sauce.

The air fryer gives these fries the perfect crunch without soaking them in oil, making them a great option for guilt-free snacking, party appetizers, or even a unique side dish for dinner. Whether you’re a fan of eggplant or just looking for a fun new way to enjoy veggies, this recipe is going to win you over!

📝 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – ready in just 15 minutes.
• Healthier than deep frying.
• Perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish.
• Crispy outside, tender inside.

🥘 Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, cut into fry-shaped sticks
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Cooking spray

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep Eggplant: Slice eggplant into thin fry-shaped sticks. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Make Breading: In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat Eggplant: Dip eggplant sticks into the beaten eggs, then roll them in the breadcrumb mixture until coated.
4. Air Fry: Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
5. Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Enjoy warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or aioli.

📌 Tips & Variations

• Make them spicy by adding cayenne pepper to the breading.
• Swap Parmesan for vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

15-Minute Air Fryer Eggplant Fries

Crispy, golden air fryer eggplant fries coated in Parmesan and breadcrumbs. A healthier alternative to traditional fries, ready in just 15 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 large eggplant cut into fry-shaped sticks
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper to taste
• 1 egg beaten

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls

Method

 

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut eggplant into fry-shaped sticks.
3. In one bowl, whisk the egg. In another, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each eggplant fry into the egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
5. Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange fries in a single layer.
6. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs. These fries are best served fresh but can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy eggplant fries with:

• Marinara sauce 🍅
• Garlic aioli 🧄
• Spicy sriracha mayo 🌶️