Craving crispy fries on keto? These Air Fryer Halloumi Fries deliver all the crunch and satisfaction of classic chips—without the carbs! Halloumi, a firm and salty cheese, transforms into golden, crunchy fries in just minutes thanks to the air fryer.
Perfect for a quick snack, party appetiser, or a fun side dish, these fries are naturally low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with flavour. No need to thaw or prep—just slice, season, and air fry. The result? Irresistibly crispy outsides with gooey, cheesy centres.
Simply slice halloumi into fry shapes, coat lightly in olive oil and spices, then air fry until golden. Serve with your favourite keto dips or alongside grilled meats for a satisfying, guilt-free treat. Ready in under 15 minutes, these fries are a must-try for anyone missing classic chips on a low-carb diet.
At a glance
- Time: 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 2
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 270 kcal
Ingredients
- 225g Halloumi cheese (Cut into thick fries)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For coating)
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika (Optional, for flavour)
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder (Optional)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Serving plate
Steps
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Slice the halloumi into thick fries, about 1cm wide.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the halloumi fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden and crisp on the outside.
- Transfer to a serving plate and allow to cool for 1–2 minutes before serving. Enjoy immediately for best texture.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Halloumi cheese → Paneer — For a milder, less salty fry; still low carb and holds shape.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a neutral flavour and high smoke point.
Serving Ideas
- Garlic mayo dip – Creamy and tangy, perfect for dipping.
- Side for grilled chicken – Adds a salty, crispy element to your meal.
- Keto mezze platter – Pair with olives, cucumber, and cured meats for a party spread.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Pat halloumi dry before slicing for extra crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—work in batches if needed.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Variations
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use za’atar or Italian herbs instead of smoked paprika for a different flavour profile.
Troubleshooting
- If fries are too soft, air fry for 2–3 more minutes.
- If fries stick, use a silicone liner or more oil.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Fridge: up to 2 days
- Freezer: up to 0 months
- Reheat: Air fry at 180°C for 3–4 minutes until hot and crisp.
Ingredient Spotlight
Halloumi cheese: A firm, brined cheese that holds its shape when cooked, making it ideal for keto-friendly fries.
Olive oil: Adds healthy fats and helps achieve a golden, crispy finish in the air fryer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen halloumi for these fries?
Yes, you can use frozen halloumi. Slice while slightly thawed for easier cutting, then air fry as directed, adding 1–2 extra minutes if needed.
What dips go well with halloumi fries?
Garlic mayo, spicy yoghurt, or sugar-free ketchup are all delicious keto-friendly options.
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
They are best served fresh, but you can prep the fries and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before air frying.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the air fryer?
Coating the fries in oil and ensuring they are in a single layer helps prevent sticking. You can also use a perforated liner.
Are halloumi fries suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as the halloumi is made with vegetarian rennet.
Keto Air Fryer Halloumi Fries (Perfectly Crispy Guide)
Ingredients
- 225g Halloumi cheese (Cut into thick fries)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For coating)
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika (Optional, for flavour)
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder (Optional)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Slice the halloumi into thick fries, about 1cm wide.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the halloumi fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden and crisp on the outside.
- Transfer to a serving plate and allow to cool for 1–2 minutes before serving. Enjoy immediately for best texture.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Halloumi cheese → Paneer — For a milder, less salty fry; still low carb and holds shape.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a neutral flavour and high smoke point.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 270 kcal
