Crispy Parmesan Green Beans – Easy Air Fryer Side Dish
If you’re looking for the ultimate green beans side dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and ridiculously easy to make, these air fryer Parmesan green beans check all the boxes. Whether you use fresh green beans or start from frozen, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a vegetable side dish even picky eaters and kids will devour.
With only five ingredients and less than 15 minutes in the air fryer, these Parmesan green beans are the perfect addition to any dinner table—especially when you're in a rush and need a quick side dish that still delivers flavor and nutrition.
Recipe at a Glance
· Prep Time: 5 minutes
· Cook Time: 10 minutes
· Total Time: 15 minutes
· Servings: 4
· Calories: 140 per serving
· Protein: 7g per serving
Why You’ll Love This recipe
· Crispy, cheesy, and naturally low carb.
· A cooked vegetable kids will eat.
· Fast, no-fuss air fryer recipe.
· Healthy and naturally gluten-free.
· Perfect for keto Parmesan green beans or gluten free green beans side.
Ingredients
· 2 cups green beans (fresh or frozen)
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 1 teaspoon pepper
· 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
· Olive oil spray
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes. This step ensures even crisping and proper texture.
2. Trim the ends off your fresh green beans, or use pre-trimmed frozen green beans (no need to thaw if using air fryer). Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
3. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with salt, pepper, and olive oil spray.
4. Spread the green beans in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for best results.
Fresh green beans: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Frozen green beans: Air fry for 13–15 minutes, shaking twice for even cooking.
5. Let cool for 1–2 minutes add parmesan cheese on top and enjoy! Serve as a hot lunch or dinner pairing or pack away for parmesan green beans meal prep.
Nutrition
· Calories: 140
· Protein: 7g
· Fiber: 2g
Tips & Customizations
Add Butter: Melt a tablespoon of butter over the green beans for richness.
Vegan Parmesan Green Beans: Use dairy-free grated cheese to make this recipe completely vegan.
Spicy Upgrade: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a heat boost.
Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest or juice brightens up the flavor.
Oven Method: No air fryer? Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes on a parchment-lined tray.
They also pair well with other vegetable side dishes like roasted carrots, mashed cauliflower, or grilled zucchini.
Meal Prep & Storage
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Air fry for 2–3 minutes at 350°F to crisp them back up.
Freezing: Not recommended after cooking, as texture will change.
These are an ideal parmesan green beans meal prep option—great for building low-carb bowls or packing with grilled protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
A: Yes! Roast in the oven at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or pan-fry with olive oil for 8–10 minutes.
Q: Is this recipe keto and low carb?
A: Absolutely. Each serving has just 5g of carbs and is loaded with healthy fats from the cheese and olive oil.
Q: Are these gluten free?
A: Yes! No flour, breading, or gluten-containing ingredients.
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes—see our instructions above for perfect frozen green bean instructions.
Final Thoughts
When you need a quick side dish that’s healthy, flavorful, and incredibly simple, this air fryer Parmesan green beans recipe is a winner. Whether you’re serving a crowd, feeding kids, or doing keto meal prep, these crispy green beans will keep everyone coming back for more.
Don’t be surprised if they outshine the main dish.
Tried this recipe? Let us know what you think and leave a comment below—What extra spices would you add?
