Air fryer French fries are a fast and flavorful side dish that fits well with many meals. They are golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and made with much less oil than traditional deep-fried fries. This method keeps the fries lighter while still giving them a satisfying crunch.

Whether you’re preparing lunch, dinner, or even a snack, this simple recipe offers a tasty option. With just a few basic ingredients and an air fryer, you can enjoy delicious fries in under an hour. They’re also easy to season and customize based on your preferences.

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WHY CHOOSE AN AIR FRYER FOR MAKING FRENCH FRIES

Using an air fryer is a helpful way to prepare crispy foods with less oil. Instead of submerging the fries in hot oil, the air fryer uses hot air to cook them evenly from all sides. This results in the same crispy texture and golden color that many people look for in French fries, but with far less fat.

The air fryer works by circulating hot air at a high speed, which gives food a fried-like finish without needing to deep-fry. This cooking method not only uses less oil, but it also reduces cleanup time, making it easier to enjoy fries more often with less effort.

SOAKING THE POTATOES MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Soaking raw potato sticks in water before air frying can help make your fries crispier. This step removes some of the natural starch that can make fries soggy during cooking. You can soak the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes or use hot tap water for about 10 to 15 minutes.

After soaking, it’s important to rinse the potato slices well and dry them completely with a clean towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the fries cook more evenly and become crispier.

THE BEST POTATOES FOR AIR FRYER FRENCH FRIES

Russet potatoes are widely recommended for making French fries. They are sometimes called Idaho potatoes and are known for their thick skin and high starch content. These qualities make them ideal for air frying because they become fluffy on the inside while staying firm enough to get crispy on the outside.

Their mild flavor also allows them to pair well with a variety of seasonings. For example, you can use paprika and garlic powder to add a smoky and savory flavor to the fries. You can also season them simply with salt and pepper or add your favorite herbs or spices for more variety.

INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED

The ingredients for air fryer French fries are simple and can usually be found in most kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need:

Russet potatoes
Olive oil
Smoked paprika (optional)
Garlic powder (optional)
Salt
Black pepper

These seasonings can be adjusted to suit your taste. For example, if you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you like herbs, a bit of dried rosemary or thyme can be added after cooking.

HOW TO CUT THE POTATOES FOR FRIES

Cutting the potatoes into even slices helps them cook at the same rate. A good size for French fries is about 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch thick. You can use a knife or a fry cutter to keep the size consistent. Thicker fries will have a softer inside, while thinner ones will be crispier.

Try to keep all your potato sticks roughly the same size. This helps the air fryer cook them evenly and reduces the chance of burning some while others are still undercooked.

HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER FRENCH FRIES

Here are the steps to make crispy, homemade fries using your air fryer:

Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes (or leave the skin on, if preferred) and cut them into even sticks, about 1/4 inch thick.
Soak the Potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes, or in hot tap water for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps remove excess starch.
Dry and Season: After soaking, rinse the potatoes, then pat them dry thoroughly. Toss the dry potato slices in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Some air fryers need preheating. If yours does, set it to 380°F and let it heat up for a few minutes.
Air Fry the Potatoes: Place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd, as this can prevent them from getting crispy. You may need to cook them in batches.
Cook and Flip: Air fry the potatoes at 380°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.
Season and Serve: Once the fries are golden and crispy, remove them from the basket. Add extra salt if desired, and serve warm.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR AIR FRYER FRENCH FRIES

Air fryer fries can be served with a variety of main dishes or enjoyed on their own. They work well as a side for meals like grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, or baked fish. You can also serve them with dipping sauces such as:

Ketchup
Ranch dressing
Honey mustard
Barbecue sauce
Garlic aioli
Fry sauce

They can also be part of a larger spread for a family meal, picnic, or casual gathering. If you’re serving them at a barbecue, they pair well with hot dogs, ribs, or veggie burgers.

TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS

Always dry the potato slices completely after soaking. Moisture can prevent crispiness.
Use a light coating of oil—just enough to help the seasonings stick.
Shake or flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking.
Serve right after cooking for the best texture and flavor.