Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans are a quick, flavorful side dish or snack, featuring tender green beans coated in a golden, cheesy Parmesan crust. This Cheesy Air Fryer Snack uses minimal oil and cooks in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, healthy snacking, or entertaining. With customizable seasonings and a satisfying crunch, these green beans are a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and guilt-free.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
This Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans recipe is a standout Cheesy Air Fryer Snack:
- Crispy Texture: Golden Parmesan coating with minimal oil.
- Quick Prep: Ready in 15 minutes using your air fryer.
- Kid-Friendly: Cheesy flavor makes veggies fun for all ages.
- Versatile: Customize with spices, nuts, or dairy-free options.
- I served these at a dinner party, and they were the ultimate Cheesy Air Fryer Snack hit!
Ingredients for Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
Here’s what you’ll need for Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans (serves 3–4):
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼ cup (30g) breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
- Optional: lemon wedges or dipping sauce for serving
Ingredient Tips:
- Green Beans: Fresh beans yield the best texture; trim ends for neatness.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated melts better; pre-grated works in a pinch.
- Oil: Use just enough to coat for crispiness without greasiness.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko adds extra crunch; omit for gluten-free.
- Equipment: Air fryer (4-quart or larger), large bowl, tongs.
Directions for Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
Let’s create this delicious Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans!
Preheat Air Fryer
I preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
Season Green Beans
In a large bowl, I toss 1 lb trimmed green beans with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper until evenly coated for this Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans recipe.
Add Parmesan Coating
I sprinkle ½ cup grated Parmesan and optional ¼ cup breadcrumbs over the green beans, tossing to coat evenly for a golden crust.
Air Fry
I place the green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. I air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Serve
I serve the green beans immediately with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce, ensuring a crunchy Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans experience.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~110 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 10g carbs, 5g protein, 10g fat, 3g fiber
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Herb Boost: Use 1 tsp Italian seasoning or ranch powder for flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in ¼ cup crushed almonds or pecans.
- Frozen Beans: Use frozen green beans; add 2–3 minutes to cook time.
Storage
I store leftover Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Freezing is not recommended, as it may make the beans soggy.
Serving Ideas
- Classic: Serve as a Cheesy Air Fryer Snack with ranch or garlic aioli.
- Garnish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice or sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.
- Pairing: Enjoy with grilled chicken, steak, or a chilled white wine.
- Presentation: Arrange in a bowl with a dipping sauce for appetizers.
- Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day snacks.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, add 2–3 minutes to the air fry time; no thawing needed.
Do I need to blanch the green beans first?
No, fresh green beans cook perfectly without blanching.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and melt; pre-grated works too.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Why aren’t my green beans getting crispy?
Avoid overcrowding the basket and ensure enough oil for coating.
Can I use other vegetables with this method?
Yes, try asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli with the same coating.
What dipping sauces pair well with these?
Ranch, spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or marinara complement the flavors.
Are these healthy?
Yes, they’re lower in fat than fried veggies and packed with flavor.
Can I cook them without breadcrumbs?
Absolutely, Parmesan alone creates a crispy, delicious coating.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
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 Cheesy Air Fryer Snack, these cheesy, garlicky green beans are a guaranteed hit—and they’re ready in minutes thanks to your air fryer.

Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh green beans trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Add Parmesan cheese and toss until evenly coated.
- Place green beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden.
- Serve immediately as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Notes
- Use finely grated Parmesan for better coating and crispiness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Best enjoyed fresh, as they lose crispiness over time.
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