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Easy Crispy French Fries Air Fryer Recipe at Home

Homemade air fryer fries · Snack, side dish, or burger-night favorite · Crispy, golden, easy, and lighter than deep-frie
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 190

Ingredients
  

  • For the Fries
  • 3 large russet potatoes
  • Russets are best because they have a fluffy center and crisp well in the air fryer.
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Avocado oil or another high-heat neutral oil also works.
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Add more after cooking if needed.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional but adds great savory flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Adds color and mild smoky warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor.
  • Optional for Serving
  • Ketchup
  • Ranch dressing
  • Garlic aioli
  • Fry sauce
  • Spicy mayo
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped parsley

Method
 

  1. Wash the potatoes
  2. Scrub the potatoes well. Peel them if you prefer smooth fries, or leave the skins on for extra texture.
  3. Cut into fries
  4. Slice the potatoes into even sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Try to keep them similar in size so they cook evenly.
  5. Soak the potatoes
  6. Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
  7. Dry very well
  8. Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean towel or paper towels. Wet potatoes will steam instead of crisp.
  9. Season the fries
  10. Add the dried potatoes to a large bowl. Toss with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  11. Preheat the air fryer
  12. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 3 to 5 minutes.
  13. Air fry in batches
  14. Place fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until golden and crisp.
  15. Repeat if needed
  16. Cook remaining fries in batches. Avoid overcrowding so the fries crisp instead of softening.
  17. Season and serve
  18. Sprinkle with extra salt while hot. Add Parmesan, herbs, or your favorite sauce if desired. Serve immediately.