I’ve always been a fan of fries, but making them at home used to feel like a greasy chore—oil splattering everywhere and the fries often ending up either soggy or overly crisp. Once I discovered the air fryer, my entire approach to fries changed. Suddenly, I could whip up crispy, golden fries with a fraction of the oil and none of the mess. Add a punchy Cajun seasoning blend, and you’ve got a snack that feels indulgent without the guilt.
These air fryer French fries are the kind of side dish that never lasts long in my kitchen. They’re smoky, slightly spicy, and perfectly crunchy on the outside while staying fluffy inside. Whether I serve them next to burgers, pile them high on game day, or just enjoy a late-night snack, they always hit the spot. The best part? They’re easy enough to make on a weeknight but flavorful enough to wow guests.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Russet Potatoes: These are the ideal potatoes for fries because of their high starch content and low moisture. They crisp beautifully in the air fryer while maintaining that fluffy interior we all crave in a fry.
Olive Oil: Just a little drizzle helps the seasoning stick and encourages even browning. You don’t need much—one of the joys of using the air fryer is keeping things light while still achieving that irresistible crispiness.
Cajun Seasoning: This is the star of the recipe. The mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs gives the fries a bold, smoky-spicy flavor that elevates them far beyond ordinary fries. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own at home.
Salt: A must-have for balancing flavors. Even with the Cajun seasoning, a sprinkle of salt ensures the fries pop with every bite.
Optional Fresh Parsley: A little garnish of chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of green color that makes the fries look extra appetizing.
Ingredients List
- 3 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Air Fryer French Fries with Cajun Seasoning
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and peel the russet potatoes (or leave the skin on if you like a rustic look). Slice them into even matchsticks, about ¼-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Soak the Fries
Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step draws out excess starch, which is the secret to getting fries that are crispy rather than limp.
Step 3: Dry and Season
Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and salt until each fry is well coated.
Step 4: Air Fry the Fries
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket—work in batches if needed so they don’t overlap too much. Air fry for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the fries to a serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Cut the fries as evenly as possible to ensure consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the soaking step—it makes a huge difference in texture.
- Make sure the fries are fully dried before adding oil and seasoning, otherwise they won’t crisp properly.
- Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding the air fryer basket will lead to uneven results.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference—add extra cayenne for more kick or tone it down if you like milder fries.
- If reheating, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon gold potatoes also work well, though they’ll have a creamier texture compared to russets.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Not at all! Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and a rustic touch. Just be sure to scrub them clean.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme.
How long do leftovers last?
Fries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer to crisp them up again.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crisp but still tasty.