I love the feeling of crisp, golden fries straight from the air fryer—the kind that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. When I first experimented with adding bacon and ranch to my fries, I realized it transformed a simple snack into a fully satisfying treat. The salty crunch of bacon paired with the creamy tang of ranch makes each bite irresistible. Cooking with an air fryer makes the process so easy, and I can enjoy all the flavor without the extra oil of traditional frying.
French fries are my go-to comfort food, but sometimes I crave something a little elevated. Adding bacon bits and a drizzle of ranch dressing turns them into a party-worthy side dish or a decadent snack for movie night. Even better, this recipe is incredibly quick, so I can whip it up whenever the craving hits. Every time I make it, the aroma fills the kitchen, and I can’t help but sneak a bite before it’s fully plated.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: The star of this dish. I like using russet potatoes because their high starch content gives the fries that perfect crispiness on the outside while keeping them soft inside. Make sure to cut them evenly so they cook uniformly.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with fries. I prefer thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite, but regular strips work just as well. Cooking the bacon ahead of time ensures it’s perfectly crispy when added to the fries.
Ranch Dressing: Creamy and tangy, ranch dressing elevates the fries with a zesty flavor that balances the saltiness of the bacon. You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on how adventurous you feel in the kitchen.
Olive Oil: Just a light drizzle helps the fries crisp up beautifully in the air fryer without weighing them down. Extra virgin olive oil works great for a subtle flavor, but any neutral oil will do.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the potatoes. Adjust the salt to your taste, and a touch of pepper adds a little kick to each bite.
Ingredients List
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup ranch dressing, for drizzling
How to Make Air Fryer French Fries with Bacon and Ranch
Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into evenly sized fries. Rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier texture. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Season the Fries
Place the potato fries in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss them well to ensure each fry is evenly coated.
Air Fry the Fries
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the fries in the basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Add Bacon and Ranch
Once the fries are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top and drizzle generously with ranch dressing. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut fries uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, soak the potato slices in water for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier flavor.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fries at their crispiest.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes work wonderfully and add a slightly sweeter flavor, though they may require a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the potatoes and bacon ahead, but the fries are best served immediately after air frying to maintain crispiness.
Is there a healthier alternative for ranch dressing?
Absolutely! You can use a low-fat or yogurt-based ranch dressing for a lighter option.
Can I freeze these fries?
Yes, freeze them before adding bacon and ranch. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.