Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

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I’ll be the first to admit it—French fries are my weakness. When I crave that perfect golden crunch with a fluffy interior, I turn to my air fryer for the magic. This recipe has become my go-to whenever I need a crispy fix without the guilt of deep frying. The air fryer transforms ordinary potatoes into seasoned perfection, and I honestly can’t imagine going back to any other method.

The best part is that making these fries from scratch means you can control the seasoning, the texture, and exactly how crispy you want them. I love experimenting with different spice blends, but this particular combo—smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne—hits every savory note. I usually prep a big batch because they disappear the moment they hit the plate.

If you’ve tried my Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes or Mexican Potatoes, you already know how much I adore spicing up potato dishes. This recipe brings that same spirit of flavor and crunch, but with a crispy twist thanks to the air fryer. It’s simple, satisfying, and totally irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

You’ll love this recipe because it delivers all the deep-fried satisfaction you crave, but without the oil-laden aftermath. It’s fast, fun, and foolproof. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a side dish, or the star of a cozy night in, these fries are crunchy, golden, and packed with flavor. Plus, cleanup is minimal and the results are consistently delicious every time.

Ingredients

Russet Potatoes: These are the best for fries because they’re starchy and hold up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you that ideal crispy outside and fluffy center.

Olive Oil: Just a small amount helps the seasoning stick and promotes that perfect golden finish.

Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor that gives the fries a slightly bold kick.

Garlic Powder: A must for savory fries; it infuses every bite with a warm, garlicky aroma.

Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the potatoes.

Salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out the flavors.

Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.

Cayenne Pepper (optional): For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch goes a long way.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes if desired, then slice them into evenly-sized sticks. Try to keep them about ¼ inch thick so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Soak for Extra Crispiness

Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, helping the fries become extra crispy.

Step 3: Dry and Season

Drain and thoroughly pat dry the potatoes using a clean towel. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Spread the fries in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve the fries immediately while they’re crispy and hot. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them as is!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to mix things up, try swapping out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes. They add a touch of natural sweetness and still crisp up nicely in the air fryer. For a different flavor profile, trade the paprika for curry powder or Italian seasoning. You can also use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a higher smoke point and slightly different taste.

For a low-sodium version, reduce the salt and amp up the herbs, like parsley, rosemary, or thyme. And if you’re avoiding nightshades, consider using parsnips or carrots as a potato alternative.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These fries make the perfect sidekick to burgers, sandwiches, or wraps. I especially love them next to a juicy grilled chicken sandwich or as a snack with a creamy garlic aioli. You can also serve them alongside something like my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or even with Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower for a fun, flavorful combo.

They’re also crowd-pleasers at parties. Just set up a fry bar with various dips—think ranch, chipotle mayo, or even a tangy BBQ sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, let the fries cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to three days.

When reheating, skip the microwave. Instead, toss them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until crispy again. You can also reheat them in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries ahead of time?

Yes, you can cut and soak the potatoes in advance. Store them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours before drying, seasoning, and air frying.

Are Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries healthier than deep-fried fries?

Absolutely. These use significantly less oil while still giving you that crunchy texture, making them a lighter alternative to traditional fries.

What potatoes work best for Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries?

Russet potatoes are ideal because of their high starch content and low moisture, which means crispier fries.

How do I make Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries extra crispy?

The key is soaking the fries to remove starch and ensuring they’re completely dry before air frying. Also, don’t overcrowd the basket—give them room to crisp up!

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved these Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries, you won’t want to miss my The Best Air Fryer Recipes collection. It’s full of flavorful and easy air fryer ideas that take weeknight dinners and snacks to the next level.

You might also want to check out Cheesy Pizza Bombs—they’re a quick, cheesy fix perfect alongside your fries.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries recipe made your mouth water, make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find next time a craving hits. Sharing is caring, so don’t forget to email it to a friend, share it on Facebook, or save it in your recipe app. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to!

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