There’s something incredibly comforting about hot, crispy French fries—especially when you’ve made them yourself. I’ve tried all kinds of methods over the years, from oven-baking to deep frying, but nothing compares to what the air fryer can do. With just a fraction of the oil, you get that golden crunch on the outside and a fluffy center that practically melts in your mouth. I started making these air fryer fries on weeknights when I was craving fast food but wanted something lighter, and they’ve become a staple in my kitchen ever since.
What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. Want them garlicky? Toss in some garlic powder. Craving something spicy? A pinch of cayenne or chili powder does the trick. You can keep them classic with salt or go wild with your favorite seasoning blends. Either way, this recipe gives you the perfect base to experiment while still nailing that crispy texture every single time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Russet Potatoes: These are the ultimate potato for making fries. Their high starch content helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, while the inside stays soft and tender. Choose large, firm potatoes without any green spots or soft patches.
Olive Oil: Just a little goes a long way here. Olive oil gives the fries that crisp exterior without needing to deep fry. Plus, it adds a hint of flavor that complements the natural taste of the potato.
Salt: Simple and essential. Salt brings out the natural flavor of the fries. You can use regular table salt, but sea salt or flaky salt can take things up a notch.
Garlic Powder (optional): If you like your fries with a touch of savory depth, garlic powder is a delicious add-on. It gives a subtle garlicky flavor without overwhelming the taste of the potatoes.
Paprika (optional): For a warm, slightly smoky flavor and a touch of color, paprika is a great choice. It also pairs wonderfully with ketchup or aioli for dipping.
Ingredients List
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
Step 1: Peel and Cut the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes (or leave the skin on if you like rustic-style fries). Slice them into thin, even sticks—about ¼ inch thick. Try to keep them the same size so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Soak the Fries
Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps the fries get extra crispy.
Step 3: Dry the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing all the moisture is key to getting a crispy texture in the air fryer.
Step 4: Toss with Oil and Seasoning
In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika. Make sure each fry is coated evenly.
Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps jumpstart the crisping process when the fries go in.
Step 6: Air Fry the Potatoes
Add the fries in a single layer to the air fryer basket (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Cook until golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with a little extra salt if needed. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t skip the soak: Soaking the fries removes starch and is key to that restaurant-style crispiness.
- Dry thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crisp fries—pat them down as much as possible before cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding: Fries need space to crisp. Cook in batches if necessary to prevent soggy results.
- Shake the basket: Shaking halfway through cooking helps fries cook evenly on all sides.
- Customize your seasonings: Add chili powder, ranch seasoning, or even parmesan cheese after cooking for extra flavor.
- Reheat like a pro: Leftover fries? Pop them back in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes to bring back that crunch.
FAQs
Why do I need to soak the potatoes first?
Soaking helps remove excess starch, which prevents fries from sticking together and promotes a crispier finish.
Can I skip peeling the potatoes?
Absolutely! Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients—just scrub them well before slicing.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps the fries start crisping right away, leading to a better texture overall.
Can I use another type of potato?
Russet potatoes work best, but Yukon golds are a decent second choice. They’re creamier, though, so they might not crisp up quite as much.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to revive the crispiness.
Can I make these oil-free?
You can, but they won’t be as crispy. A small amount of oil really helps with that perfect golden crust.