Easy Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Eggplant Fries

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Easy Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Eggplant Fries are a delicious way to prepare eggplant. They are perfect for an appetizer, snack, side dish or pair with salad or pasta for a meal.

eggplant fries in bowl with sauce for dipping

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Eggplant Fries

Before slicing up the eggplant, prepare your breading station. In one bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic salt and pepper; stir well. In a second bowl, combine eggs and water and whisk well.

Next, peel eggplant (if desired) and then slice into “fries”. Try to keep size uniform so they cook evenly. Before beginning breading, preheat your air fryer. Set it to 375 degrees for 10 minutes.

Then, place all eggplant fries in a large bowl and add flour. Toss to coat. Next, dip eggplant into egg then breadcrumb mixture. Repeat until all fries are breaded.

Depending on the size of your air fryer these may need to be done in 2-3 batches. After the air fryer is preheated place a single layer of eggplant fries in the air fryer basket. Spray cooking spray over the fries to help them get more crispy. Cook at 375 degrees for 6 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle lightly with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with pasta sauce for dipping or enjoy plain.

These are perfect on their own for an appetizer or side dish. To create a meal consider adding a salad or pasta dish.

Any leftover fries can be stored in the refrigerator. Toss them into the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 375 degrees to crisp them up before serving.

close up of easy air fryer crispy parmesan eggplant fries

Eggplant Buying Tips

If you aren’t familiar with eggplant, they can be an intimidating vegetable to buy. According to The Kitchn, there are 5 things to look for when buying an eggplant at the grocery store or farmers market.

First, look for one that is heavy for its size. Then, make sure it is shiny and the stem is green. It should also be slightly firm. Smaller eggplants may be less bitter than larger ones as well.

More Appetizer Recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these eggplant fries be made gluten free?

Yes! Swap the breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten free breadcrumbs and use gluten free flour in place of the all purpose flour.

Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs?

Of course! Panko breadcrumbs tend to be larger and may not coat the eggplant fries as completely but they can be used.

Easy Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Eggplant Fries

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