How to Air Fry Beets

Scrub beets thoroughly and peel with a vegetable peeler (wear gloves — beet juice stains). Cut into 3/4-inch cubes or 1/4-inch rounds for even cooking. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional additions: balsamic vinegar, thyme, or cumin. Dry the beet pieces before tossing with oil to help them roast rather than steam.

Air fry at 375°F (190°C). Cubes take 15–20 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes. Slices take 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Beets are done when a fork slides in easily and the edges are caramelized. Small beets vary significantly in cooking time — start checking at 15 minutes.

Whole small beets (golf-ball size) can be air fried at 375°F for 25–30 minutes. Wrap in foil for the first 20 minutes, then open the foil for the last 5–10 minutes to lightly crisp the exterior. The skin slips off easily after cooking. Cubed beets are faster and develop more caramelization.

Air-fried beets are excellent warm over arugula with goat cheese, walnuts, and balsamic glaze. They also work in grain bowls, as a side with roasted chicken, or blended into a beet hummus. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What temperature for air fryer beets?

Air fry beets at 375°F (190°C). This moderate heat caramelizes the natural sugars in beets while cooking them through without burning the exterior. It works for both cubed beets and small whole beets.

How long to cook beets in air fryer?

Cubed beets (1-inch pieces) take 20–25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaken or stirred halfway. Small whole beets (2 inches in diameter) need 35–40 minutes. Test doneness by piercing with a fork — they should be tender all the way through with no resistance.

Tips for air fryer beets?

Cut beets into 1-inch cubes for the fastest, most even cooking. Toss with oil, salt, and pepper before cooking. Check tenderness with a fork at the minimum time. Wear gloves when handling raw beets — the juice stains. Roasted beets are sweeter than boiled; the air fryer enhances this natural sweetness.