Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium eggplant, cut into fries; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making crispy eggplant veggie fries! They are the perfect guilt-free snack or side dish that satisfies my cravings for something crunchy. The secret is in the double breading technique that creates an irresistible texture while baking. I often serve them with a zesty dipping sauce for a burst of flavor, and I can't get enough of their savory goodness. Whether I'm hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these veggie fries always make a great impression!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:58:13.770Z

When I first tried making veggie fries, I was surprised at how simple and satisfying they were. By using eggplant, I discovered that I could enjoy all the crunchiness of traditional fries without the heavy calories. I experimented with different seasonings, and found that a mix of garlic powder and paprika gave the fries an incredible flavor that I keep coming back to.

Another tip I learned is to let the breaded eggplant sit for a few minutes before baking. This helps the coating adhere better, ensuring every fry is evenly crispy. Since then, these crispy eggplant veggie fries have become a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that satisfies fried food cravings
Packed with flavor from herbs and spices
A healthy twist on traditional fries

      

The Double Breading Technique

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture with these eggplant veggie fries lies in the double breading technique. By first coating the eggplant in flour, you're creating a dry base that helps the egg adhere better. Once dipped in the beaten eggs, the final layer of seasoned breadcrumbs sticks perfectly, ensuring every fry has an even, crunchy coating. For best results, make sure the eggplant pieces are well-coated at each stage—this not only improves texture but also enhances flavor absorption during the baking process.

If you find that the breadcrumbs aren't sticking well, you can give the eggplant a quick re-dip in the eggs before the final breadcrumb coating. This ensures that each fry has a thick enough layer to create that coveted crunch. I often recommend using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just fine as well.

Choosing the Right Eggplant

When selecting an eggplant for your veggie fries, look for one that is firm, smooth, and shiny without blemishes. Medium-sized eggplants tend to have the right balance of tenderness and flavor, while larger ones can be overly bitter and have more seeds. Remember, the skin should be vibrant and taut—if it’s dull or wrinkled, the eggplant is past its prime.

If you're looking for a smaller or more manageable option, you could also use Japanese eggplants, which are sweeter and have fewer seeds compared to traditional globe eggplants. Just keep in mind that they may require less cooking time, so watch them closely in the oven for optimal crispiness.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Eggplant Veggie Fries

1 medium eggplant, cut into fries
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Notes:

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor!

Instructions

Prep the Eggplant

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the eggplant into fry shapes and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with a paper towel.

Set Up Breading Stations

In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Eggplant

Dredge each eggplant fry in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Repeat until all fries are breaded.

Bake the Fries

Place the breaded fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once golden brown and crispy, remove the fries from the oven. Allow to cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your crispy veggie fries warm!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, consider air frying the fries at 400°F (204°C) for about 15 minutes instead of baking.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy eggplant veggie fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. A homemade tzatziki sauce, made with yogurt, cucumber, and dill, adds a refreshing contrast to the savory fries. Alternatively, a classic marinara or spicy sriracha mayo can elevate the flavor even further. Don't hesitate to experiment with different dips based on your taste preferences; it's a great way to make the dish your own!

If you're looking to serve these fries as part of a meal, consider pairing them with a light salad or a protein-rich dish such as grilled chicken or fish. Their crunchy texture complements soft or creamy elements beautifully, providing a satisfying contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering or simply want to enjoy these fries later, you can prepare them in advance. After breading, you can freeze the unbaked fries on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're cooked thoroughly.

Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as this will lead to a soggy texture rather than the intended crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely! Zucchini, sweet potatoes, and carrots also work well for veggie fries.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the fries in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?

They pair excellently with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy garlic aioli.