Crispy Air Fryer Beet Chips

Crispy air fryer beet chips are a delicious and healthy snack! This beet chips recipe is so easy to make. Get that perfect beet chip crunch with minimal fat!

Finding healthy snacks that my kids actually enjoy has been an ongoing challenge. These crispy air fryer beet chips were created when I bought extra beets for my beet hummus.

After seeing my first-born finish his plate of air-fried plantain chips, I decided to give beets a try. Turns out they're great alternatives to store-bought chips without sacrificing that satisfying crunch. 

In all honesty, my first attempt turned out either soggy or burnt, with no middle ground. I trusted my air fryer a little too much and assumed it would work its magic like it does for my other recipes.

I learned that using a mandoline slicer for ultra-thin, uniform slices—plus spacing them out properly in the air fryer basket—makes all the difference in getting the texture just right.

What makes these beet chips a must-try is how they turn a vegetable that many people avoid into something irresistibly snackable. While my kids are doing homework or during weekend movie nights, I can quickly prep a batch that's ready in under 20 minutes.

The vibrant color makes them visually appealing, and the natural sweetness of beets creates a flavor that's more complex than regular potato chips.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to processed snacks or simply want to incorporate more vegetables in a fun way, these beet chips deliver every time. The air fryer turns a root vegetable into a crispy, crave-worthy treat that proves healthy snacking doesn't have to be a compromise.

Ingredients

• Beets – The earthy backbone of the dish, beets bring deep color and a natural sweetness that intensifies when roasted. I’ve tried both large and medium beets and found that medium-sized ones roast more evenly and retain a better texture. 
• Olive oil – This is key for roasting, helping the beets develop a caramelized, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. I always use extra virgin olive oil because its richer flavor complements the earthiness of the beets better than lighter oils.
• Salt – A simple but essential seasoning that draws out the natural sugars in the beets and balances their earthiness. I usually start with a moderate amount and adjust after roasting, as the flavor deepens during cooking.
• Optional seasonings – I’ve experimented with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper to add layers of flavor. Smoked paprika is a favorite for adding subtle warmth without overpowering the beets. Black pepper adds a gentle bite, while garlic powder gives a savory note that pairs well if you want a bit more complexity.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

Step-by-step Instructions

Making beet chips in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy, crispy snack without using much oil. Thinly sliced beets cook evenly and develop a satisfying crunch, making them a great alternative to traditional chips. Follow these simple steps to prepare your own beet chips at home.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat. This temperature is ideal for getting the beet slices crispy without burning them.

Prepare the Beets

Wash the beets thoroughly and peel them. For even, thin slices, use a mandoline slicer if you have one. If not, a sharp knife will work—just try to cut the slices about ⅛ inch thick so they cook evenly and crisp up well.

Season the Beet Slices

Place the beet slices in a bowl and toss them with olive oil and salt. This helps them crisp up and adds flavor. If you want, you can add other seasonings like pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for a bit of extra taste.

Arrange in the Air Fryer

Lay the beet slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping the slices so they cook evenly. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you might need to cook the chips in batches.

Cook and Shake

Cook the beet slices for 15 to 20 minutes. Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or turn the slices to help them cook evenly on all sides. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent burning; the chips should be crisp and slightly browned when done.

Cool and Serve

Remove the beet chips from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They will crisp up more as they cool. Enjoy your crunchy, healthy beet chips as a snack or side!

Storage

Once the beet chips have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp. Keep the container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Stored this way, the chips will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause them to become soft. If they lose some crispness, you can refresh them by briefly reheating in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Beet Chips

Air fryer beet chips are easy to pair with light dips and sides that echo their earthy flavor and crisp texture. A good starting point is something creamy or tangy to balance the natural sweetness of the beets. Try them with a swipe of beet hummus for a color-coordinated match, or go with roasted red pepper hummus if you’re after something smoky and a little richer. You can also plate them alongside roasted carrots with hazelnuts, which build on the same earthy notes while adding some texture and nuttiness.

For something a bit more hefty, pair your chips with spicy air fryer cabbage steaks with tahini or halloumi cheese for a saltier contrast. If you’re planning a full air fryer spread, you could round things out with air fryer zucchini fritters, air fryer jalapeno poppers, or air fryer tilapia for something more protein-rich. These combinations keep things simple but interesting, making beet chips feel right at home in a mix of snacks or small plates.

Recipe