Crispy and flavorful, these air fryer French fries are fast and simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients you can prepare a healthier version that rivals restaurant fries in under 30 minutes.
These French fries in the air fryer develop an irresistible contrast of textures: a crisp, seasoned exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. They require minimal oil and little hands-on time, making them a practical weeknight side or snack. Serve them with your favorite burger, a veggie patty, or topped with chili and cheese. A garlic aioli or ketchup on the side makes a perfect dipping combo.
Why This Recipe Works
1. These fries are seasoned for a savory, well-rounded flavor.
2. They use very little oil, so they’re lighter than typical restaurant fries and require minimal cleanup.
3. You can prepare and freeze the seasoned fries ahead of time, then finish them in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- Potatoes: Russet or Idaho are best for a fluffy interior and crisp exterior.
- Avocado oil: high smoke point and neutral flavor.
- Garlic powder: for subtle garlic notes.
- Ground pepper: adds a touch of heat.
- Paprika: for color and depth of flavor.
- Seasoning salt: enhances overall taste; adjust to preference.
See the recipe card below for exact amounts and step-by-step instructions.
Variations
- Potato choice: Yukon Gold works well. Avoid very waxy new potatoes or fingerlings for this method.
- Soaking: Rinsing or a brief 30-minute soak removes excess starch. Both produce good results; rinsing is faster.
- Oils: Olive oil or grapeseed oil are suitable substitutes. Flavor-infused oils (garlic, rosemary) make a great variation.
- Cut size: For standard fries cut 1/4″ thick; for steak fries cut 1/2″ and increase cook time accordingly. A mandoline helps ensure uniform thickness.
🔪 Step-By-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Peel the potatoes if desired, then cut them lengthwise and into 1/4-inch thick sticks. Rinse under running water for 1–2 minutes and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, ground pepper, seasoning salt, and paprika until combined.
Step 3: Combine the cut potatoes, avocado oil, and seasoning mix in a large bowl or gallon-size resealable bag. Toss or shake until the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 4: Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping; work in batches if needed so air can circulate freely.
Step 5: Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 18 minutes. Open the basket once or twice during cooking to shake or turn the fries for even browning. Cooking time may vary by air fryer—check at 14–20 minutes and adjust to your preferred crispiness.
When finished, let fries rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
Expert Tip
Leaving some skin on the potatoes can increase crispness and adds texture; peel them fully if you prefer a smoother bite. Also, opening the basket periodically and stirring helps ensure even crisping and prevents burning at the edges.
Air-fried French fries deliver restaurant-style crispiness without deep frying or excessive oil. They’re versatile, freezer-friendly, and simple to customize with different herbs, cheeses, or dipping sauces.
🙋 Recipe FAQs
Cook at 400°F for about 18 minutes, but check between 14 and 20 minutes since air fryer performance varies. Adjust time to reach your desired crispness.
If frozen, air fry at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook until crispy.
Reheat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or until they regain crispness.
Expert Tips
- No need to preheat the air fryer for this recipe.
- Keep fries warm in a 200°F oven on a parchment-lined sheet if making multiple batches.
- Simple toppings include grated Parmesan and chopped parsley; melted mozzarella and diced peppers are another tasty option.
- To remove more starch, cut and soak potatoes, then refrigerate in water for 12–24 hours. When ready, drain, rinse, dry, and proceed with the recipe.
- You can freeze uncooked seasoned fries for up to 3 months; cook from frozen at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
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How To Make French Fries In The Air Fryer
Crispy and delicious, these air fryer French fries are quick and easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 potatoes, Russet or Idaho
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Peel (optional) and cut potatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch sticks.
- Rinse the cut potatoes under running water for 1–2 minutes, then dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Mix garlic powder, ground pepper, seasoning salt, and paprika in a small bowl.
- Toss the potatoes with avocado oil and the seasoning mixture in a large bowl or resealable bag until evenly coated.
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket; work in batches if needed.
- Cook at 400°F for about 18 minutes, opening once or twice to shake or turn the fries for even browning.
- When done, remove and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- No need to preheat the air fryer.
- Cut thickness affects cook time: 1/4″ for standard fries, 1/2″ for steak fries.
- Keep cooked fries warm and crisp in a 200°F oven on a parchment-lined sheet if preparing in batches.
Nutrition
Calories: 100 kcal | Carbohydrates: 19 g | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 1 g | Sodium: 296 mg | Potassium: 444 mg | Fiber: 1 g