Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

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Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a batch of golden, crispy French fries—especially when they’re made fresh at home and with far less oil. These homemade air fryer French fries deliver on all fronts: they’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and the power of your air fryer, you can skip the fast-food line and enjoy a healthier version of your favorite side dish.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re pairing them with burgers, serving them as a snack, or dressing them up with your favorite seasonings, these fries are endlessly adaptable. Once you try them, you’ll never want to go back to frozen or deep-fried again.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Russet potatoes are your best bet for crispy, restaurant-style fries. Their high starch content and low moisture level make them ideal for that perfect golden crunch. You can also try Yukon Golds for a slightly creamier interior, though they won’t get quite as crisp.

Ingredients for the Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

• 3 large Russet potatoes
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper for seasoning

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How To Make the Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes (or leave the skin on for a rustic feel), then cut them into ¼-inch thick sticks. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.

Step 2: Soak for Crispiness

Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Season and Oil

Toss the dry potato sticks with olive oil, salt, and any optional seasonings you like. Coat evenly.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Remove and serve immediately while hot. Sprinkle with additional salt if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Your Fries

Serve these air fryer fries hot and fresh, ideally right after cooking for the best texture. They’re perfect on their own or with dips like ketchup, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo. Want to go gourmet? Try a sprinkle of Parmesan and chopped parsley right out of the fryer.

To store leftovers, let the fries cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Sweet potatoes make delicious fries, though they tend to be softer and may need slightly more time in the air fryer.

Do I have to soak the potatoes?

Soaking removes excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier result. It’s optional, but highly recommended.

Why are my fries soggy?

Too much moisture or overcrowding the basket can lead to soggy fries. Make sure to dry your potatoes well and cook in batches.

Can I make these oil-free?

You can, but the fries may not be as crispy. A light coating of oil helps with browning and texture.

What dipping sauces go best?

Classic ketchup, ranch, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli are all great options.

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Want More Air Fryer Ideas?

If these crispy fries made you fall in love with your air fryer, here are a few more crave-worthy ideas to try next:

• The Best Air Fryer Recipes for more savory creations.
• Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites for a crispy protein-packed bite.
• Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower to spice up your veggie game.
• Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for a cheesy twist.
• Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni if you’re craving something heartier.

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Tried them? Let me know in the comments! Did you add chili powder or go all in with truffle oil? I love seeing your spins on these recipes, and don’t forget to check out more daily recipes on my Pinterest page.

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