For those who struggle to come up with quick and simple healthy side dishes, these 10-minute air-fried green beans should definitely make your rotation list! They require super minimal hands-on prep and are cooked in 5-7 minutes (based on your desired texture and crispiness). Plus, they are super versatile and adaptable, not only in terms of seasonings and toppings but also when serving!
Are fried green beans healthy
Not only do they taste great, but air fryer green beans are rich in dietary fiber and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, K, and C, as well as iron, calcium, folate, and magnesium (at only around 30kcal per cup!). There’s also no need to blanch the beans either; just top and tail them, season, and air fry to crispy-tender perfection! Cooking green beans in the air fryer means minimal clean-up and saves oven space (great for the holidays). And it creates stunning results in a fraction of the time! I prepared my air fry green beans with a super simple salt and pepper seasoning, topped off with fresh lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder (my “basic go-to” green beans recipe). But keep reading for tons of other seasoning options. These include garlicky flavor (with garlic powder), cheesy variations (did someone say parmesan cheese?), buttery, as well as breaded air fryer green bean fries! Looking for other ways to enjoy green beans? Check my posts on how to boil green beans perfectly, sauteed green beans, roasted green beans, and top tips for freezing green beans.
Air fryer green beans recipe ingredients
The basic green beans recipe requires just a few simple ingredients::
Green beans: I used regular green beans (also called string beans/snap beans). However, French green beans (haricots verts) and purple string beans will also work for this green beans air fryer method. Look for beans with firm pods and bright green color. You can use frozen or fresh green beans in air fryer. Olive Oil: or another neutral cooking oil like avocado oil, coconut oil, etc. You could also use low-calorie cooking spray if preferred. Salt & Pepper: season to taste. To garnish: lemon slices (for lemon juice) and red pepper flakes (or thinly sliced fresh red chili pepper).
Check the Recipe Card Notes below for many seasoning options and recipe variations.
How to air fry green beans
First, prepare the green beans by washing them well and drying them with a kitchen towel. Then trim the ends (also called “topping and tailing” beans), and remove any tough strings. The quickest way to trim the beans is to grab a handful of beans and line up all the ends. Then use a long, sharp knife to trim off all the tips in one go. Repeat with all the remaining green beans.
Air fryer temperature
If your air fryer requires pre-heating, do so now to 350ºF/180ºC. Then, in a large bowl (or Ziplock bag), toss the beans with the oil and seasoning. Then spread them across the bottom of your air fryer basket in a single layer, trying to avoid them overlapping too much (a little is fine).
How long to air fry green beans
Air fry the green beans for 7-8 minutes, until slightly crisp outside with a tender middle. For slightly less tender air-fried green beans, cook the beans for just 5-6 minutes. For crispier results, increase the time by 1-2 minutes. If you use a bigger batch and the beans are overlapping, make sure you are air frying green beans for longer. It will work out okay but the cooking time will be between 12-14 minutes. Also, it’s best to shake the basket 2-3 times, for even results. The time will also vary based on the thickness/size of your beans (larger beans require 2-3 extra minutes). I’ve tried this method with and without shaking the basket halfway. Either way is OK for me, so I usually skip this step. However, if you want more even browning, feel free to do so.
Can you cook frozen green beans in an air fryer
For air fryer frozen green beans you can use the same temperature and method, but increase the cooking time to somewhere between 13-16 minutes (or slightly less/more depending on your desired texture).
Why are my green beans hard after cooking
If your air fryer string beans are still hard after cooking, they are likely undercooked. Place them back in the Air Fryer and cook them for further 1-2 minutes. Cook them until they are tender to your liking. Shaking the basked 1-2 times during cooking can help to cook them more evenly as well.
How to serve air fried green beans?
These airfryer green beans are a super versatile side dish that pairs well with most proteins and mains:
Serve with salmon, cod, and other fish. Pairs well with chicken – like chicken kebab and roast chicken. Serve alongside stir-fried chicken, tofu, or tempeh. Alongside meaty or vegan meatloaf and meatballs. Stir into or serve alongside warm pasta dishes. As a side on the Thanksgiving table with other sides like creamy mashed potato and gravy. As a healthy side to burgers. With your favorite grain – brown rice, jasmine rice, vegetable pilaf, quinoa, couscous, etc.
You can also save the leftovers to add to salad bowls, potato salad, pasta salads, etc.
More simple air fryer recipes
Air Fryer Asparagus Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes Crispy Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms
If you try this green bean air fryer recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts/questions below. Also, I’d appreciate a recipe card rating below, and tag me in your recipe recreations on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
