I’ve always loved the crispiness of French fries, but I never wanted the guilt of deep frying them. When I discovered the magic of the air fryer, my snack game completely changed. It allows me to enjoy golden, crunchy fries without all the excess oil, and the cleanup is minimal. Pairing them with garlic butter takes them from a simple snack to an irresistible treat that’s perfect for movie nights or even as a side for dinner.
Cooking these fries in the air fryer feels like a little culinary adventure. I love watching the potatoes turn perfectly golden while the aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy, and even beginner cooks can feel like a pro. Every bite is a satisfying mix of crunch and savory flavor that always brings me back for more.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the best results. They crisp up beautifully in the air fryer while remaining fluffy on the inside. Peel them if you prefer, or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to giving the butter a bold, aromatic flavor. Mince or press the garlic to release its full intensity and mix it with the butter to coat the fries evenly.
Butter: Unsalted butter works best so you can control the saltiness. When melted, it combines with the garlic to create a rich, velvety coating that enhances every fry.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps the fries crisp up in the air fryer while adding a subtle, complementary flavor to the garlic butter.
Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt will bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Optional Herbs: Fresh parsley or rosemary adds a pop of color and a fragrant herbal note that pairs wonderfully with garlic butter fries.
Ingredients List
- 4 medium Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Butter
Prep the Potatoes
Wash, peel (optional), and cut the potatoes into even sticks. Ensuring they’re roughly the same size helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.
Soak the Potatoes
Place the potato sticks in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps the fries crisp up perfectly.
Dry and Toss
Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry using a clean towel. Toss them with olive oil and salt to ensure each fry is lightly coated.
Air Fry the Fries
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the potato sticks in a single layer in the basket and cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crisping.
Make the Garlic Butter
While the fries cook, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.
Coat the Fries
Once the fries are golden and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the garlic butter over them. Toss well to coat evenly and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot and crispy. These fries are perfect as a side for burgers, sandwiches, or just as a snack to enjoy on their own.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Soaking the fries in water is crucial for extra crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more aromatic flavor.
- Toss the fries gently after adding the garlic butter to prevent breaking them.
- For extra crunch, increase the air fryer time by 2–3 minutes, checking frequently.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes work well but may require slightly less cooking time and a careful eye to avoid burning.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
You can prepare the potato sticks ahead, but they’re best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic provides a richer, more fragrant flavor that pairs perfectly with butter.
How can I make the fries extra crispy?
Soaking the potatoes and ensuring they’re completely dry before air frying are key steps for maximum crispiness.