Air-Fryer Plantains

Why fry plantains on the stove when you can make them in the air fryer for a healthier, mess-free option? These air-fryer plantains come out perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for a quick snack, appetizer or a flavorful side. Plus, an air fryer cuts down on the use of oil, making this a lighter, guilt-free snack to make when the cravings hit.

Air-Fryer Plantains Ingredients

• Green plantains: Firm green plantains are best for making crispy tostones in the air fryer due to their starchiness. Learn about the differences between plantains and bananas.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds pungency and a savory flavor to the plantains as they soften and soak.
• Garlic salt: Used in both the soaking liquid and seasoning mix, garlic salt boosts the overall flavor of the toasted plantains.
• Onion powder: Dried onion powder adds a subtle savory undertone that complements the garlic.
• Cooking spray: A light mist of cooking spray helps crisp up the plantains without the need for excess oil when air frying.
• Seasoning mix: A flavorful blend of garlic powder, garlic salt, onion powder and kosher salt creates a flavorful coating for the finished air-fryer plantains.
• Optional toppings: Guacamole and pico de gallo add fresh, zesty flavors to complement the crispy plantains when serving.

Directions

Step 1: Soak

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Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, garlic salt and onion powder. Add the sliced plantains to the bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak for 30 minutes to absorb the seasoning and soften slightly. Drain the plantains, then place them on paper towels and pat them dry.

Step 2: Cook

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Working in batches, arrange the plantain slices in a single layer on the greased air fryer tray or basket. Spritz the tops lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes until the plantains are lightly browned.

Step 3: Flatten and crisp

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Remove the plantains from the air fryer and place them between two sheets of aluminum foil. Using the bottom of a glass, flatten the plantain slices to about 1/2-inch thickness.

Step 4: Return to air fryer

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Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°. Return the flattened plantains to the air fryer and cook for an additional two to three minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Season and serve

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In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, garlic salt, onion powder and salt. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the cooked plantains. Serve immediately, accompanied by guacamole and pico de gallo for dipping if desired.

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Recipe Variations

• Make them sweet: For a sweeter version, use ripe yellow plantains instead of green ones—you just need to reduce the overall cooking time as they brown faster. Dust with cinnamon or sugar before serving.
• Spice it up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix to give these air-fryer plantains a kick.
• Load it up: Top the plantains with shredded cheese, salsa and black beans for a loaded nacho-style version.

How to Store Air-Fryer Plantains

These plantains are best eaten the day they’re made, as they are nice and crispy right out of the air fryer. They will soften over time, but you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking them and separate layers with parchment paper.

How do you reheat air-fryer plantains?

To reheat, place the plantains back in the air fryer at 350° for two to three minutes until they’re warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.

Air-Fryer Plantains Tips

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Can you use yellow plantains in this air-fryer plantains recipe?

Along with green plantains, both yellow and black plantains—green plantains that have ripened a bit more—can be used in this recipe. For best results, look for plantains with some patches of both yellow and black.

How do you peel green plantains for air-fryer plantains?

Green plantains can be tricky to peel! Make a shallow slit along the length of the plantain and use your fingers to peel away the tough outer skin.

What can you serve with air-fryer plantains?

Fried plantains are a popular treat in Cuba, so serve this air-fryer plantains recipe alongside a Cuban roasted pork sandwich or with rice and beans. Air-fryer plantains also pair well with arroz con pollo or in a tostones sandwich.