You can cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, and the results are genuinely crispy, tender, and packed with flavor.
This method is faster than roasting them in a regular oven and uses way less oil than deep frying.
If you’ve been wondering how to cook carrots and potatoes in air fryer together without one turning to mush or the other staying raw, you’re in the right place.
The trick is all in the prep, the temperature, and the timing.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer so they come out golden, perfectly seasoned, and ready to enjoy every single time.
Let’s dive in.
Why Cooking Carrots and Potatoes in an Air Fryer Works So Well
Cooking carrots and potatoes in an air fryer works so well because the circulating hot air mimics the intense, dry heat of a convection oven.
That means both vegetables get that beautiful caramelized exterior without needing to be drowned in oil.
Here’s why this combo is a match made in air fryer heaven:
1. They Both Love High Heat
Carrots and potatoes both roast beautifully at high temperatures.
When you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, the basket reaches temperatures between 380°F and 400°F, which is ideal for crisping up the outside while softening the inside.
That high, dry heat is exactly why cooking carrots and potatoes in an air fryer gives you that roasted texture in record time.
2. The Air Fryer Uses Very Little Oil
You only need a tablespoon or two of oil to cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer.
This means fewer calories and less mess, but you still get that satisfying crunch.
That’s a big win if you’re trying to eat a bit healthier without giving up flavor.
3. It’s Fast and Convenient
When you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, the whole process takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
Compare that to a traditional oven, which can take 40 minutes or more, and it’s easy to see why so many people are switching.
Plus, there’s no need to preheat a giant oven or wait forever for it to come up to temperature.
4. Easy Cleanup
Since you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer basket, most models have a non-stick surface and a dishwasher-safe drawer.
That means less scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
So now that you know why this method works, let’s get into the actual steps.
How to Cook Carrots and Potatoes in an Air Fryer: Step by Step
Learning how to cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer is simpler than you might think.
Just follow these steps and you’ll be golden.
1. Prep the Carrots and Potatoes
Start by washing your carrots and potatoes thoroughly.
Peel the potatoes if you prefer, though leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and crispiness.
Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes and the carrots into 1-inch chunks.
Keeping the pieces roughly the same size is crucial when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, because it ensures they finish cooking at the same time.
2. Soak the Potatoes (Optional but Recommended)
If you want extra crispy potatoes when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, soak the potato cubes in cold water for about 15 minutes.
This removes excess starch, which helps them crisp up rather than steam.
Just be sure to pat them completely dry before seasoning.
3. Season Everything
In a large bowl, toss the carrots and potatoes with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried rosemary or thyme.
Feel free to experiment with cumin, chili powder, or parmesan cheese for variety.
When you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, seasoning generously is what makes them irresistible.
4. Preheat and Arrange in the Basket
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for about 3 minutes.
Then spread the carrots and potatoes in a single layer in the basket.
Don’t overcrowd them, or they’ll steam instead of roast.
If needed, cook in batches.
This step is key when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer for that perfect roasted finish.
5. Cook and Shake
Set the timer for 20 minutes.
Halfway through, pull the basket out and give it a good shake.
This helps everything cook evenly and prevents sticking.
If your air fryer runs a bit hot, check at 15 minutes.
When you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, a little vigilance pays off.
6. Check for Doneness
The carrots and potatoes are done when they’re fork-tender on the inside and browned on the edges.
If you want them crispier, add 2 to 3 more minutes.
That’s literally all there is to it.
Tips for the Best Carrots and Potatoes in an Air Fryer
To really nail how to cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, keep these tips in mind.
1. Cut Pieces Evenly
Even sizing is the number one rule when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer.
Uneven pieces mean some burn while others stay hard.
2. Don’t Skip the Oil
A little oil helps the seasonings stick and encourages browning.
You can use avocado oil, canola oil, or even a light spray of cooking oil when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer.
3. Shake the Basket Often
Shaking every 7 to 8 minutes ensures even cooking.
That’s a small habit that makes a huge difference when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer.
4. Add Fresh Herbs at the End
Dried herbs go in before cooking, but fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro should be sprinkled on after.
That way they stay bright and fragrant.
5. Reheat Leftovers in the Air Fryer
If you have leftovers from when you cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer, just pop them back in at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes.
They’ll taste almost as good as fresh.
So, How Do You Cook Carrots and Potatoes in an Air Fryer?
You cook carrots and potatoes in an air fryer by cutting them into even pieces, tossing them with oil and seasonings, and air frying at 390°F for about 20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
This method gives you tender insides, crispy edges, and tons of flavor with minimal effort.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight side or a healthy snack, cooking carrots and potatoes in an air fryer is a game changer.
Give it a try tonight and see just how easy and delicious it really is.
Enjoy your crispy, golden carrots and potatoes.