I’ve always had a soft spot for fries, especially the ones that deliver a little kick of heat. Something about that golden crunch paired with bold spices feels like the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Instead of grabbing a bag of frozen fries, I love making them at home—because I can control the flavors, the crispiness, and the level of spice. Plus, nothing beats that fresh-from-the-air-fryer taste.
These spicy French fries are my go-to when I want a quick snack, a fun side dish, or something to munch on during movie night. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and carry just the right punch of seasoning. And the best part? They’re healthier than traditional deep-fried fries since the air fryer uses minimal oil. Once you try these, you’ll find yourself skipping the drive-thru and heading straight for your spice rack.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: The heart of this recipe! Russet potatoes work wonderfully because of their high starch content, which creates that perfect balance of crisp edges and fluffy centers. Yukon gold potatoes are another great option if you prefer a slightly creamier bite.
Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the spices cling to the potatoes and encourages even browning in the air fryer. You don’t need much, but it makes a big difference in texture and flavor.
Paprika: This spice brings both color and a gentle smoky depth. Depending on what you have, you can use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or stick with sweet paprika for a milder, earthy note.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder adds that irresistible savory layer without overpowering the other spices. It also spreads more evenly over the fries than fresh garlic would.
Cayenne pepper: Here’s where the heat comes in. Cayenne adds that fiery kick that makes these fries “spicy.” Adjust the amount based on how much spice you can handle.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the potatoes and balancing the spices. Without enough salt, fries can taste flat—so don’t be shy with it.
Black pepper: A simple but necessary ingredient. Black pepper rounds out the spice profile with a sharp, earthy warmth.
Ingredients List
- 3 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Spicy French Fries
Step 1: Prep the potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes (peeling is optional if you like a rustic look). Cut them into even sticks—about ¼ inch thick—so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Soak and dry
Place the cut potatoes into a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps achieve crispier fries. After soaking, drain them and pat completely dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Season the fries
In a large bowl, toss the potato sticks with olive oil until lightly coated. Add the paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so every fry is evenly covered in seasoning.
Step 4: Cook in the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange the fries in a single layer inside the basket (you may need to work in batches). Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve hot
Transfer the fries to a serving dish and sprinkle with a little extra salt if desired. Enjoy them right away with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut the fries as evenly as possible for uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip the soaking step—it makes all the difference in crispiness.
- Work in batches if your air fryer is small; overcrowding leads to soggy fries.
- Taste and adjust the spice level: add more cayenne for extra heat or reduce it for a milder kick.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch; fries tend to soften as they cool.
- Experiment with seasonings: try chili powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for variation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen fries and simply add the seasoning. Just keep in mind that frozen fries often already have oil and salt, so adjust accordingly.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Not at all! Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients. It’s completely up to your preference.
What dipping sauces go best with these spicy fries?
Spicy mayo, ranch, chipotle aioli, or even classic ketchup pair perfectly with these fries.
Can I bake them instead of air frying?
Yes, bake them at 425°F (218°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.