If you have ever longed for perfectly crispy, golden French fries without the guilt of deep frying, then this Air Fryer French Fries Recipe is absolutely for you. It transforms simple russet potatoes into irresistible, crunchy delights that are fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer. This recipe brings together minimal ingredients and an easy process, making it a go-to for anytime snacking or mealtime sides that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Only a handful of ingredients are needed to make these fantastic fries, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and taste. From the type of potato to the choice of oil, every component matters to create that classic fry experience at home.
- 6 large russet potatoes: Ideal for fries because of their high starch content, which yields a crispy outside and fluffy interior.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Coats the fries evenly to help them crisp up nicely in the air fryer; alternatives like canola or avocado oil work well too.
- Kosher salt to taste: Enhances flavor and brings out the natural potato sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
Step 1: Cut the Potatoes
Start by slicing your potatoes into classic fry shapes using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Uniform size is key for even cooking, so take your time to make them as similar as possible.
Step 2: Soak the Fries
Submerge the cut potatoes in cold water for at least one hour. This step is essential as it removes excess starch, which prevents the fries from sticking together and helps them crisp up beautifully.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly
Drain and rinse the fries well, then lay them out on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Pat them dry completely, as moisture can create steam in the air fryer and lead to soggy fries.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F and let it preheat. A hot cooking environment ensures your fries start crisping right away.
Step 5: Season and Oil the Fries
Drizzle the fries with olive oil and sprinkle kosher salt over them. Toss well to coat every piece evenly—this step guarantees a golden color and fantastic flavor.
Step 6: Air Fry in Batches
Arrange a single layer of fries in the air fryer basket—crowding will steam the potatoes instead of crisping them. Cook each batch for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are golden and crunchy.
Step 7: Keep Warm and Serve
Transfer cooked fries to a warm baking sheet in the oven to keep them hot and crisp while you finish the remaining batches. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
How to Serve Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Air Fryer French Fries Recipe by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. A little garlic powder or smoked paprika also brings interesting flavor twists that are sure to impress.
Side Dishes
French fries are the ultimate crowd-pleaser alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or even a hearty salad. Their versatility makes them an easy addition to many meals, from casual to gourmet.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving fries in a rustic metal basket lined with parchment paper for a charming, casual look. Pair with a trio of dips like spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, and classic mustard for an interactive munching experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store the fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within 2 days, as fries can lose their crispness over time.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked fries by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and lets you reheat small portions whenever you crave a crispy snack.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness, reheat leftover fries in the air fryer at 360°F for 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating as it makes fries soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this Air Fryer French Fries Recipe?
While russet potatoes are preferred for their texture, Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes can also work, though they may have a different crispiness or sweetness.
Do I need to soak the potatoes before air frying?
Yes, soaking is a crucial step to remove excess starch and helps achieve that perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the insides tender.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these fries instead?
You can bake them at 425°F on a baking sheet, turning halfway through. While the texture won’t be exactly the same, it’s still a delicious alternative.
How do I know when the fries are done?
Look for a golden-brown color and a firm yet crispy texture. They should be evenly cooked without any soggy spots.
Can I add seasoning other than salt?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, or even fresh herbs to customize your fries.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer French Fries Recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves fries but wants a healthier, hassle-free method to make them at home. Crispy, golden, and super flavorful, these fries are bound to become a new favorite for your snacks and meals. Grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy the best homemade fries you’ve ever had!
Print
Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and golden Air Fryer French Fries made with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, olive oil, and kosher salt. This recipe ensures perfectly cooked fries that are healthier than traditional deep-fried versions, delivering a deliciously crunchy texture with minimal oil. Easy to make and perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 6 large russet potatoes (peeled or unpeeled)
Seasoning & Oil
- ¼ cup olive oil (can substitute with canola, vegetable, avocado, or peanut oil)
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the Potatoes: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to cut the russet potatoes into fry-shaped pieces, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Soak the Fries: Place the cut fries into a large bowl filled with cold water and soak for at least 1 hour. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Dry the Fries: Drain the fries in a colander and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly with additional paper towels to remove moisture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer temperature to 380°F and allow it to preheat fully for optimal cooking performance.
- Season the Fries: Drizzle the dried fries with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place a single layer of fries into the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even air circulation and crispiness.
- Cook the Fries: Air fry the fries for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Keep Warm: Once cooked, transfer the fries to a new baking sheet and place them in a warm oven to keep crispy while cooking the remaining batches.
- Serve Immediately: Repeat the cooking process with the remaining fries and serve hot for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Soaking potatoes removes excess starch, preventing soggy fries.
- Patting fries dry is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
- You can adjust cooking time slightly based on the thickness of fries.
- Use a light oil spray if you want to reduce the quantity of oil used.
- For extra flavor, toss fries with garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasoning blend before air frying.
