Best Air Fryer French Fries (Crispy Recipe)

The day I made air fryer French fries, I was instantly hooked.

They’re so perfectly crispy on the outside with mashed potato-like insides. 

Plus, they’re just as crispy as deep-fried fries with none of the extra oil. And isn’t that what air fryer recipes are all about?

Air Fryer French Fries 

Air fryer French fries are the perfect side dish for a few reasons. First, these fries crisp to perfection in only 10 minutes. 

Since they’re not deep-fried, they’re much healthier than your average fry. 

Fresh fries are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and garnished with simple seasoning. 

I love whipping up these quick fries when I’m craving a salty snack.

Ingredients 

If you have the potatoes ready to go, you’re almost there.

These fries only require a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely have on hand. Here’s everything you need:

• Russet potatoes – For the ultimate crisp fry, Russet potatoes are the way to go. They have a lower moisture content, which helps them crisp up in the fryer. Idaho potatoes come in a close second and yield a creamier inside. 

• Olive oil – You just need enough oil to help earn a crispy crust. I love using olive oil because it’s healthier than vegetable oil and offers a savory, nutty flavor. 

• Salt and pepper – Tasty fries aren’t complete without a dash of salt and pepper. It makes them salty, crispy, and so flavorful. 

• Garlic powder – Garlic powder takes ordinary spuds to the next level. However, feel free to add all your favorite seasoning from your spice rack. 

How to Make Air Fryer French Fries

Like this air fryer tater tots recipe, you’ll let the air fryer do all the heavy lifting here!

All you need to do is coat them in seasoning and let the air fryer work its magic.

Check out how easily these air-fried spuds come together. 

1. Prep. Wash and dry the potatoes. Then, cut them into equal 1/4-inch thick slices. You can opt to leave the skins on or remove them. 

2. Soak the potatoes. Place the cut potatoes into a large bowl filled with cold water. Allow them to soak for at least 15 minutes. Then, pat them completely dry with paper towels. 

3. Toss in the seasoning. Place the dried potatoes in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. 

4. Air fry. Arrange the coated potatoes in a single layer in your airy fryer basket and cook them for 10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. 

5. Serve. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fries 

No one likes soggy fries! Follow these quick and easy steps for the crispiest potatoes.

• Even cutting is key. Try to cut your potatoes into even slices. A vegetable chopper works wonders to create even fries. This step ensures all the French fries cook evenly. 

• Soaking is essential. Allow them to soak in cool water to rinse away some of the starch from your spuds. This allows them to cook up nice and crisp. Or, for even crispier fries, try soaking them in salt water. 

• Dry to the bone. Water is the enemy of crispy fries. After you soak your spuds, take the extra time to ensure they’re as dry as possible. If you don’t, they won’t crisp up in the air fryer. 

• Taste test technique. I know this is a hard ask. While your fries may look done after the 10 minutes, they may need more time. Give them a taste! If they’re still a little firm on the inside, give them a few more minutes. 

• Give them some space. Be sure your spuds have plenty of room in your air fryer. If your basket is small, you may need to work in batches. If you overcrowd the basket, they won’t crisp up. 

Serving Suggestions 

Some days, I whip up a batch of French fries as a tasty snack for movie night. 

However, they make the ultimate sidekick for burgers and hot dogs. The salty goodness of these fries is also perfect with this tasty Cuban sandwich.

No French fry is complete without a host of tasty dipping sauces. While ketchup is a classic, try out different dips like bleu cheese dip or a quick and easy hot bean dip. 

I also like to make loaded French fry nachos with all the classic fixings as an appetizer for game night. 

More Potato Recipes 

Sweet Potato Fries
Potato Soup
Potato Cakes
Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Amish Potato Salad

Best Air Fryer French Fries (Crispy Recipe)

Servings

3

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Once you try these air fryer French fries, you’ll never deep fry them again! They turn out crispy, tender, and so delicious!

Ingredients

• 2 Russet potatoes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

• Wash and dry the potatoes. Cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick fries. You can leave the skin on for extra flavor and nutrients or peel them if you prefer.
• Fill a large bowl with cold water and add the fries. Let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy fries!
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
• Air fry them for 10 minutes. Remove the basket and toss the French fries. Cook them for 6-10 more minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve them hot with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

• For thicker fries, cut the potatoes into wedges instead of sticks. Keep in mind that they will take a little longer to cook in the air fryer.
• The soaking step is essential for crispy french fries.
• If your air fryer is small, it’s better to work in batches. 
• Experiment with different dipping sauces to complement the garlic flavor

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