These crispy air fryer French fries deliver all the golden satisfaction of deep-fried potatoes with just 4g of fat per serving. Ready in under 20 minutes, this healthier homemade version lets you indulge guilt-free while saving time and calories.
The air fryer works its magic to create perfectly crunchy exteriors and fluffy centers using a fraction of the oil. Plus, with just 122 calories per portion, you can feel good about serving these fries as a side dish any day of the week.
Fresh & Crispy Air Fryer Fries Ingredients
- Russet Potatoes: 1 pound (2-3 medium), freshly scrubbed
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, helps achieve golden perfection
- Kosher Salt: ½ teaspoon, for perfect seasoning
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon, adds savory depth
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Prep the Potatoes: Cut lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices for perfect fry shape
- Soak Time: Immerse in cool water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch
- Dry Thoroughly: Drain and pat completely dry for maximum crispiness
- Season Well: Toss in a bowl with oil and seasonings until evenly coated
- Air Fry Setup: Arrange in a single layer with space between each fry
- Cook to Perfection: Air fry at 380°F for 10-14 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes
- Final Touch: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dip
Why Soak the Potatoes?
Soaking your potato slices in cold water is a game-changing step! This simple trick pulls out excess starch, which helps your fries become super crispy in the air fryer. Just remember to dry them really well after soaking – wet potatoes won’t crisp up nicely.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fries
Want the best results? Keep these tips in mind:
– Cut your fries as evenly as possible for consistent cooking
– Don’t skip the drying step after soaking
– Leave space between fries in the air fryer basket
– Shake the basket every 5 minutes for even browning
– Season while the fries are still hot for better flavor
Dips and Toppings
While ketchup is a classic choice, try these tasty options:
Garlic aioli
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo
- Melted cheese
- Truffle oil and parmesan
For loaded fries, add some crispy bacon bits, green onions, or melted cheese right after cooking!
Make It Your Own
Try these simple tweaks:
- Swap regular salt for seasoned salt
- Add paprika or cayenne for heat
- Use ranch seasoning instead of garlic powder
- Try different oils like avocado or vegetable oil
- Cut them thicker for steak fries or thinner for shoestring style
Storage Tips
These fries taste best fresh from the air fryer! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 380°F for 3-4 minutes until hot and crispy again.
Homemade Air Fryer French Fries
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound russet potatoes washed and scrubbed to remove any dirt (about 2-3 medium russet potatoes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped, optional
Instructions
- Slice the russet potatoes lengthwise into 1/4 inch thick slices.
- Place the potato slices into a bowl and cover them with cool water. Let them soak for 30 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and dry completely. This will remove the starch from the potatoes, which will help the fries crisp up in the air fryer. Place the dried potato slices into a dry bowl.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Place the fries in the basket of the air fryer in a single layer, making sure there is space between each one to help air circulate around the fries. If needed, cook the fries in two batches.
- Air fry at 380°F/190°C for 10-14 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and golden. Be sure to shake the basket every 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving with ketchup or your favorite french fry dip.
