The Best French Fries in Air Fryer

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air fryer French fries are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and made with a fraction of the oil used in traditional deep frying. Quick, easy, and healthier, these fries are perfect for snacking, serving as a side, or satisfying a fast-food craving at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
russet potatoesolive oilsaltblack peppergarlic powdersmoked paprikacornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)

directions

Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then cut them into thin, even sticks for uniform cooking.

Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean towel.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a tablespoon of cornstarch if using.

Spread the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd—cook in batches if necessary.

Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until fries are golden brown and crisp.

Remove and season immediately with a little extra salt if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 3-4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Soaking time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Use sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter version.
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Top with grated parmesan and chopped parsley for a gourmet touch.
Try truffle oil and sea salt for a luxurious twist.
Serve with flavored aiolis or dipping sauces for variety.

storage/reheating

Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it makes fries soggy.

FAQs

Do I have to soak the potatoes?
Soaking helps remove starch and leads to crispier fries, but you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry.

Why are my fries not crispy?
Make sure the potatoes are dried well after soaking, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Can I use frozen fries instead?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly since they’re already par-cooked.

What type of potato is best?
Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy texture, which yields crispy fries.

Can I make these oil-free?
You can, but a small amount of oil helps achieve better texture and taste.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which affects crispiness.

Can I season after cooking?
Yes, but some seasoning may not stick as well—especially powders—without oil.

Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely—try curry powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, or ranch seasoning.

Can kids eat these fries?
Yes, they’re kid-friendly and healthier than deep-fried options.

Can I prep the potatoes ahead?
Yes, you can cut and soak them a few hours in advance—just store them in water in the fridge.

Conclusion

The best French fries in the air fryer are golden, crispy, and irresistibly tasty with less oil and more convenience. With a few simple steps and endless seasoning options, this recipe will become your go-to for fries anytime the craving hits. Try them once, and they just might replace your favorite takeout fries.

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