Can Beets Be Cooked in an Air Fryer Discover the Perfect Method

Yes, beets can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer, delivering tender, caramelized results in under 30 minutes with minimal oil. Simply toss halved or cubed beets with a light coating of oil and seasoning, then air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness—ideal for salads, bowls, or healthy snacks. This method preserves nutrients while enhancing natural sweetness, making it a game-changer for quick, nutritious meals.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, beets can be air-fried: Achieve tender, caramelized results in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal oil needed: Toss with 1 tsp oil to enhance crispness without excess fat.
• Preheat for best texture: Ensures even cooking and a slightly crisp exterior.
• Cut uniformly for consistency: 1-inch cubes or slices cook evenly and faster.
• Season after cooking: Prevents sogginess and maximizes flavor absorption.
• Store leftovers easily: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

Can Beets Be Cooked in an Air Fryer? Discover the Perfect Method

Let’s talk beets. You know, those vibrant, earthy root vegetables that can be a little intimidating if you’ve never cooked them before. Maybe you’ve seen them roasted in the oven, boiled on the stove, or even pickled in jars. But have you ever considered using your air fryer to cook them? If you’re nodding along, wondering if this kitchen gadget can handle beets, you’re not alone. I was in the same boat a few months ago—hesitant, curious, and a bit skeptical. After all, beets are dense, fibrous, and notorious for turning everything (including your hands) pink. But after some trial and error, I discovered that yes, beets can absolutely be cooked in an air fryer, and the results are nothing short of amazing.

The first time I tried air-frying beets, I was blown away by how quickly they cooked, how tender they turned out, and how little mess was involved. No boiling water, no preheating the oven, and no sticky, stained cutting boards. Just clean, hands-off cooking with a crisp exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth center. Whether you’re a beet newbie or a seasoned root veggie enthusiast, this method might just become your new go-to. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from prep tips to flavor pairings, troubleshooting common issues, and even how to store and reheat your air-fried beets. So, let’s dive into the colorful world of air-fried beets and discover the perfect method.

Why Air Fryer Beets Are a Game-Changer

The Speed Advantage

One of the biggest wins with air-frying beets is speed. Traditional roasting in the oven can take 45 to 60 minutes at 400°F, depending on the size. Boiling them takes even longer—up to 90 minutes—and you lose a lot of flavor and nutrients into the water. With an air fryer, you’re looking at 20 to 30 minutes for small to medium beets, and rarely more than 40 minutes for larger ones. That’s a massive time saver, especially on busy weeknights.

How does it work? The air fryer circulates hot air at high speed, creating a convection effect that roasts the beets evenly from all sides. The high heat draws out moisture, caramelizes the natural sugars, and gives the skin a slight crispness—all without needing to flip them every 10 minutes. I’ve found that even beets with slightly uneven shapes cook uniformly, which is a huge relief when you’re not a precision chef.

Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor

Another reason I love air-frying beets is how low-maintenance it is. No need to peel them before cooking—just wash, trim the tops and roots, and cut them into uniform chunks or leave them whole if they’re small. I usually go for 1- to 1.5-inch pieces so they cook evenly and fit nicely in the basket. A light drizzle of olive oil (just 1–2 teaspoons per pound) helps the seasoning stick and enhances browning.

Here’s a pro tip: toss the beets with a pinch of salt, a crack of black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika before air-frying. The oil acts as a carrier for the spices, and the air fryer’s heat locks in that savory-sweet flavor. I once added a few rosemary sprigs directly to the basket—just for fun—and ended up with beets that tasted like they’d been slow-roasted over a campfire. Delicious.

Health Benefits You Can Feel Good About

Beets are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re packed with fiber, folate, manganese, and nitrates, which support heart health, digestion, and even athletic performance. Cooking them in an air fryer preserves more nutrients than boiling (where water-soluble vitamins leach out). Plus, you’re not adding excess fat—just a small amount of oil for crispness.

Compared to deep-frying or pan-searing, air-frying is a far healthier option. You get the texture of a roasted beet without the need for heavy oils or butter. And because beets are naturally sweet, you don’t need to add sugar or syrups to make them palatable. It’s a win-win: tasty and guilt-free.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air-Frying Beets

Prepping the Beets: The Right Way

Before you even think about the air fryer, prep matters. Start by selecting fresh, firm beets with smooth skin and vibrant color. Avoid ones that are soft, wrinkled, or have dark spots. If the beet greens are attached, cut them off, but don’t toss them—they’re edible and delicious sautéed with garlic.

Wash the beets thoroughly under cold water. You can scrub them with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt. I like to leave the skin on during cooking because it helps hold the shape and protects the flesh from drying out. Once cooked, the skin slips off easily with a paper towel or fork.

Now, decide how you want to cut them:

• Whole (small beets): Great for roasting and peeling after cooking. Ideal for 1.5-inch or smaller beets.
• Halved or quartered: Good for medium beets. Reduces cooking time slightly.
• 1- to 1.5-inch cubes: Best for even cooking and mixing into salads, grain bowls, or pasta.

Pro tip: If you’re cutting them, aim for uniform size so they cook at the same rate. Uneven pieces can lead to some chunks being overdone while others are still raw in the center.

Seasoning and Oil: Less Is More

Here’s where a lot of people overdo it. You don’t need a heavy hand with oil or seasoning. A light coating of olive oil (about 1 tsp per pound of beets) is enough to help the spices stick and promote browning. Too much oil can cause splattering or make the beets soggy.

For seasoning, I keep it simple:

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder or onion powder
• Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, dried thyme, or rosemary

Toss everything in a bowl until the beets are evenly coated. If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice—just don’t overdo the liquid, or it’ll steam the beets instead of roasting them.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Now for the fun part—air-frying! Here’s my go-to method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (if it has a preheat function). This helps with even cooking.
• Arrange the beets in a single layer in the basket. Don’t overcrowd—air needs to circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
• Cook for 20 minutes, then shake the basket or flip the beets with tongs.
• Continue cooking for another 10 to 20 minutes, depending on size and desired tenderness.

How do you know when they’re done? Poke them with a fork or knife. They should be easily pierced but still slightly firm—like a baked potato. If you prefer them softer, add 5 more minutes. For a crispier exterior, leave them in a little longer, but watch closely to avoid burning.

One time, I accidentally left my beets in for 50 minutes (distracted by a phone call). They were still edible—just a bit drier and more caramelized—but not ruined. So, don’t panic if you go a little over. They’re forgiving.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake I see—and I’ve made it too. When the basket is packed full, the hot air can’t circulate properly, and the beets end up steaming instead of roasting. The result? Mushy, unevenly cooked beets with no crispness.

Solution: Cook in batches. It might take a few extra minutes, but the difference in texture is worth it. If you have a large air fryer (6+ quarts), you might fit a full pound of cubed beets in one go. Smaller models? Stick to 8–12 oz per batch.

Skipping the Oil

I get it—you want to keep things low-fat. But skipping oil entirely can lead to dry, rubbery beets. The oil isn’t just for flavor; it helps the surface brown and prevents sticking.

Workaround: Use a non-stick spray or a tiny amount of oil (1/2 tsp) and toss well. You’ll still get great results with minimal fat. I’ve even used a few drops of avocado oil for a neutral taste.

Not Checking for Doneness

Beets can go from perfectly tender to overcooked in minutes. Relying solely on time isn’t enough—especially since air fryers vary in heat output.

Tip: Test early and often. After 20 minutes, check one piece. If it’s still hard, keep going. If it’s tender, you’re done. I like to set a timer for 20 minutes, then check every 5 minutes after that.

Peeling Before Cooking

Peeling raw beets is messy and difficult. The skin is tough, and the juice stains everything. Plus, you lose some fiber and nutrients.

Better approach: Cook with the skin on, then peel after. Once the beets are hot, the skin softens and rubs off easily with a paper towel or fork. It’s like magic. I once tried peeling them raw and ended up with beet-stained hands, a stained counter, and a frustrated mood. Never again.

Creative Ways to Use Air-Fried Beets

In Salads and Bowls

Air-fried beets are salad superstars. Their sweet, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with bitter greens like arugula or radicchio, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts. I love making a simple beet and kale salad with lemon vinaigrette and toasted almonds.

For grain bowls, toss them with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, avocado, and a tahini dressing. The beets add color, texture, and a natural sweetness that balances spicy or tangy ingredients.

As a Side Dish

Serve air-fried beets alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork, or baked fish. I like to drizzle them with a balsamic glaze or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt mixed with lemon zest and dill. They’re also great with a sprinkle of crumbled feta or blue cheese.

One of my favorite combos: beets with roasted garlic and rosemary. Just add a few whole garlic cloves to the basket during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Squeeze the soft garlic out of the skins and mix it with the beets—heavenly.

In Spreads and Dips

Purée cooked beets with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of olive oil for a vibrant beet hummus. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties and makes a great snack with pita chips or veggie sticks.

Or blend them into a smoothie with banana, spinach, and almond milk. The natural sweetness means you don’t need added sugar, and the color is stunning—like a sunset in a glass.

For Meal Prep

Air-fried beets are meal prep gold. Cook a big batch on Sunday, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and use them throughout the week. They keep well for 4–5 days and can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to refresh their texture.

I often add them to my lunch containers—paired with chickpeas, greens, and a grain—for a nutritious, colorful meal that’s ready in minutes.

Storage, Reheating, and Troubleshooting

How to Store Cooked Beets

Let the beets cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or resealable bag. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Without Losing Texture

Microwaving can make beets soggy, so I avoid it. Instead, use the air fryer to reheat:

• Place beets in the basket in a single layer.
• Air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway.
• They’ll regain their slight crispness and warmth without drying out.

If you’re short on time, a quick sear in a hot skillet with a little oil works too—just 2–3 minutes per side.

Dealing with Stains

Beet juice stains everything—hands, cutting boards, clothes. To prevent it:

• Wear gloves when handling raw beets.
• Use a plastic cutting board or line a wooden one with parchment paper.
• Wash tools and surfaces immediately with hot, soapy water.
• For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water can help.

And remember: the juice is harmless. It washes out of most fabrics with cold water.

When Beets Are Too Tough or Too Soft

If your beets are still hard after 30+ minutes, they might be older or larger than expected. Try:

• Cutting them into smaller pieces next time.
• Boiling them for 10 minutes first, then air-frying for 10–15 minutes.

If they’re too soft or mushy, they were likely overcooked. Reduce time by 5–10 minutes next time, or use a lower temperature (375°F) for a longer period to avoid scorching.

Final Thoughts: Is Air-Frying Beets Worth It?

After testing dozens of batches—some perfect, some not so much—I can confidently say that yes, beets can be cooked in an air fryer, and they turn out better than most traditional methods. The speed, ease, and flavor are hard to beat. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight side, prepping meals for the week, or impressing guests with a vibrant salad, air-fried beets deliver.

They’re not perfect—overcrowding or skipping oil can lead to less-than-ideal results—but with a little practice, you’ll nail it every time. And the versatility? Off the charts. From salads to spreads to smoothies, these little red gems can do it all.

So, if you’ve been hesitant to try beets because of the mess or time commitment, give the air fryer a chance. You might just fall in love with their sweet, earthy flavor and the simplicity of cooking them. After all, who doesn’t want a colorful, nutritious, and delicious dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Grab your air fryer, pick up some beets, and let the roasting begin.

Beet Size	Cut	Air Fryer Temp	Cooking Time	Doneness Test
Small (1–1.5″)	Whole	390°F	20–25 min	Fork-tender, slight crisp
Medium (1.5–2″)	Halved/Quartered	390°F	25–30 min	Easy to pierce, no resistance
Large (2″+)	1.5″ cubes	390°F	30–40 min	Soft throughout, caramelized edges

Frequently Asked Questions

Can beets be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, beets can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer! This method delivers tender, caramelized beets with minimal oil and effort, making it a healthy and convenient option.

How do you prepare beets for the air fryer?

Wash and scrub the beets thoroughly, then trim the tops and roots. You can leave them whole, halve, or slice them—just ensure even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. Lightly toss with oil, salt, and pepper before air frying.

How long should you cook beets in an air fryer?

Cook beets in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 25–35 minutes if whole, or 15–20 minutes if halved or sliced, flipping halfway. They’re done when fork-tender and slightly crispy on the edges.

Do you need to peel beets before air frying?

No, peeling is optional before air frying. The skin softens during cooking and can be easily removed afterward if desired. Leaving the skin on also helps retain nutrients and prevents mess.

What’s the best way to season air fryer beets?

For flavorful air fryer beets, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of garlic powder adds extra depth.

Can you cook frozen beets in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen beets in an air fryer without thawing. Add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time and check for tenderness. This is a great way to enjoy beets year-round with no prep work.