Air fryer French Fries

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These Air Fryer French Fries are crispy, golden, and healthier than deep-fried fries! They use minimal oil but still deliver that perfect crunch.

From time to time, I love making Air Fryer French Fries because they are crispy, tasty, and healthier than deep-fried fries. I enjoy cooking them for my family when we want a quick and delicious snack. My kids always say these fries are the best because they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe is a favorite in our house, and we like to have it for snacks or as a side dish with burgers and sandwiches. It’s always a fun and easy treat!

So, it will be my first choice when I need something quick, crunchy, and satisfying. I make them about once a week because they are simple to prepare and don’t require much oil. When I make them, I like to season them with garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor. The air fryer makes them perfectly crispy without the mess of deep-frying.

You can also add some other seasonings like chili powder or Parmesan cheese if you like, and the result is just Wow! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect snack or side, these fries are a must-try.

I prefer to enjoy them with ketchup and garlic mayo, some melted cheese, or even spicy sauce. This recipe is super easy to make and perfect for any day when you need a quick snack.

Why You Need to Try Air Fryer French Fries?

Air Fryer French Fries are golden, crispy, and healthier than traditional fried fries. They use little to no oil, making them a great alternative without sacrificing flavor. Plus, they are quick to make and perfect for any meal!

Perfect For:

  • Quick Snacks: When you’re craving something crispy and salty, these fries are a perfect choice.
  • Family Meals: Kids and adults love them, making them a great side dish for any dinner.
  • Healthy Eating: Since they use less oil, they are a better option than deep-fried fries.
  • Parties & Gatherings: They are easy to make in large batches and go well with different dips.

Ingredients

  • 2 large russet potatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Air Fryer
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Large Bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Mixing Spoon

How to make air Fryer French Fries

Step 1:

Wash the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra texture. Cut them into thin, even strips, about ¼-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2:

Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, making them crispier.

Step 3:

Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture can prevent them from crisping up properly.

Step 4:

In a large bowl, toss the dried potato strips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure each piece is well-coated.

Step 5:

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.

Step 6:

Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.

Step 7:

Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook until they turn golden brown and crispy. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.

Step 8:

Remove the fries from the air fryer, sprinkle with extra salt if needed, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mayo, or ranch dressing!

Helpful Tips

  • Cut the potatoes evenly: Thin, uniform slices help them cook evenly and crisp up properly.
  • Soak the fries in cold water: This removes excess starch, making them crispier when cooked.
  • Dry the potatoes well: Moisture can make the fries soggy, so pat them completely dry before cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook in small batches to allow the fries to get crispy on all sides.
  • Shake the basket halfway through: This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
  • Adjust the seasoning after cooking: Adding salt after air frying keeps the fries crispy.
  • Reheat leftovers in the air fryer: This brings back the crispiness better than microwaving.

Optional Ingredients

  1. Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle on top after cooking for a cheesy flavor.
  2. Chili Powder – Adds a spicy kick to the fries.
  3. Truffle Oil – Drizzle for a fancy touch and rich flavor.
  4. Fresh Herbs – Garnish with parsley or rosemary for a fresh taste.
  5. Lemon Zest – A little zest brightens up the flavor.
  6. Paprika – Gives a smoky and slightly sweet taste.

How to Serve Air Fryer French Fries?

My favorite way to serve Air Fryer French Fries is with ketchup and garlic mayo. The combination of crispy fries with creamy dipping sauces makes them irresistible.

You can also serve them alongside burgers, sandwiches, or grilled chicken. They add a great crunch to any meal and make it more enjoyable.

For a loaded fries version, top them with melted cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon. This turns them into a fun and indulgent dish that everyone loves.

Recipe Variations To Try!

Spicy Cajun Fries: Toss with Cajun seasoning before cooking for a bold, spicy flavor.

Garlic Butter Fries: Mix with melted garlic butter after air frying for a rich taste.

Sweet Potato Fries: Use sweet potatoes instead for a slightly sweet and healthy option.

Cheesy Fries: Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and broil for a few minutes for a gooey topping.

Herb Fries: Toss with dried rosemary, thyme, and basil for a fresh herbal taste.

Pesto Fries: Drizzle with homemade pesto for a unique and flavorful twist.

How to Store

To store leftovers, place the fries in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to bring back their crispiness.

For freezing, store uncooked fries in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ

Do I need to soak the potatoes before air frying?

Yes, soaking the potatoes for 30 minutes in cold water removes excess starch, making them crispier when cooked.

What type of potatoes work best for French fries?

Russet potatoes are the best choice because they are starchy and crisp up well. Yukon Gold potatoes also work but will have a softer texture.

Can I make these fries without oil?

Yes! You can air fry them without oil, but they may not get as crispy. A light coating of oil helps with browning and crunch.

Why aren’t my fries crispy?

Make sure to dry the potatoes completely before cooking, don’t overcrowd the air fryer, and cook in batches if needed.

What temperature should I use to cook the fries?

Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for evenly cooked, crispy fries.

How long do air fryer French fries take to cook?

They usually take 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Can I use frozen fries in the air fryer?

Yes! Frozen fries cook well in the air fryer. Just follow the package instructions and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Can I season the fries before air frying?

Yes! Toss them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika before cooking for extra flavor.

Air fryer French Fries

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: Snacks, SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

3

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Total time

30

minutes

These Air Fryer French Fries are crispy, golden, and healthier than deep-fried fries! They use minimal oil but still deliver that perfect crunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 large russet potatoes

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp paprika

Directions

  • Wash the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra texture. Cut them into thin, even strips, about ¼-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, making them crispier.
  • Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture can prevent them from crisping up properly.
  • In a large bowl, toss the dried potato strips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
  • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
  • Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
  • Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook until they turn golden brown and crispy. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.
  • Remove the fries from the air fryer, sprinkle with extra salt if needed, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mayo, or ranch dressing!

Notes

  • Dry the potatoes well: Moisture can make the fries soggy, so pat them completely dry before cooking.