The Best Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful veggie side that actually holds its own on the plate, these air fryer green beans check every box. They’re crisp, well-seasoned, and come together in under 15 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples.
I make this recipe on repeat—especially during busy weeks when I need something easy but still fresh. Whether you’re serving them with roasted chicken, salmon, or steak, they’re always a solid choice.
Inspiration Behind the Recipe!
This recipe holds a special place in my culinary repertoire because it came from my time as a private chef, preparing meals for NBA athletes. They loved the crunch and flavor combination of these air fryer green beans and mushrooms, often requesting them alongside their protein-rich meals. It was one of those simple sides that never failed—clean, flavorful, and always the first thing gone from the plate.
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Why I Love This Recipe:
This is one of those air fryer recipes I make on repeat. Here’s why:
It’s the perfect side dish for almost any main dish.
The ingredients are pantry staples—just garlic powder, black pepper, avocado oil or olive oil, and a pound of green beans.
You only need 14 minutes total cooking time, and there's very little prep time.
It’s foolproof, even for first time air fryer users.
It’s a delicious way to sneak in more fiber and vitamin C.
Jazz's Recommended Products:
Our Place Wonder Oven:
I used the Our Place Wonder Oven for this recipe! It’s an absolute game-changer in my kitchen, offering efficiency and even cooking every time. It truly is the best air fryer!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Green Beans
A healthy veggie side that’s ready in under 15 minutes
Minimal ingredients: just green beans, oil, and a few pantry spices
Crispy edges + perfect seasoning = no sad veggies
Great for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even holiday dinners
Easy to customize with different flavors or seasoning blends
Includes oven + frozen green bean versions
Ingredients You'll Need:
1 lb green beans, trimmed (don’t skip trimming the stem end!)
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green beans, oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is coated.
3. Transfer to the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).
4. Air fry for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Serve immediately. Optional: top with parmesan cheese, lemon wedges, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Oven Instructions
No air fryer? No problem.
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Toss green beans with oil and seasonings in a large bowl.
Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Flavor Variations
This easy air fryer green beans recipe is super versatile. Here are a few of my favorite flavor swaps:
Asian-Inspired: Drizzle with soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Tex-Mex: Try a combo of onion powder, smoked paprika, and a little lime juice.
Italian: Toss with pesto, or serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Buffalo Style: After air frying, toss with buffalo sauce and finish with a ranch drizzle.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans?
Yes! Here’s the best way:
Toss frozen green beans (don’t thaw) with your oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Air fry at 400°F for 14–16 minutes, shaking halfway.
The texture will be slightly softer than fresh, but still totally satisfying.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Have leftover green beans? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes until they regain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave unless you're okay with soggy beans (I’m not).
If you’re making these ahead, undercook them slightly and air fry for 2-3 minutes just before serving.
Jazz’s Tips!!
Trim the ends of the green beans for a cleaner look and better texture.
Avoid overcrowding—second batch is always a good idea if you’re doubling the recipe.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking to brighten the flavors.
For ultra-crispy green bean fries, toss with a tablespoon of cornstarch before air frying (skip if doing Whole30 or grain-free).
Let the beans cool at room temperature before storing to avoid sogginess.
What to Serve With Crispy Green Beans
Pair this easy side dish with any of these main dish favorites:
FAQs
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Yes! No need to thaw. Increase cooking time to 14–16 minutes.
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They’re crispy on the outside and tender in the middle, way better than steamed!
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Yes, but they’re best fresh. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to bring back crispiness.
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Totally! Just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding — too many beans = steaming, not crisping.
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Yes to all three. Plus, they use minimal oil and no flour.
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Yes, but they’re best fresh. If you do prep ahead, undercook them slightly and reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes before serving.
If you’re a fan of green beans or just on the hunt for healthy side dishes that don’t take an hour to prep, these crispy green beans are for you. They’re the easy way to sneak veggies into your weeknight meals, or enjoy as a quick snack straight out of the air fryer.
The Best Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans
Crispy, well-seasoned air fryer green beans made with simple pantry staples. Ready in under 15 minutes and perfect as a healthy side or quick snack.
Ingredients
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Add green beans, oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a large bowl.
- Toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Air fry in a single layer for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Serve immediately. Optional: top with fresh lemon zest, parmesan, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Ready in 10 minutes, this creamy Low Carb Lemon Ricotta Pasta made with Egglife POWER PASTA™ is packed with 28g protein and bright, fresh flavor. Perfect for easy, satisfying meals with lots of recipe options and simple steps!