🍟 Homemade French Fries in the Air Fryer

Skip the deep fryer! These homemade air fryer French fries come out perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside with just a little oil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking)
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes well. Peel them if desired, or leave the skins on for extra texture. Slice into evenly sized fries, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 2: Soak

Place the fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30–60 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps create crispier fries.

Step 3: Dry

Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Step 4: Season

Toss the fries with the olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 5: Air Fry

1. Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Air fry for 18–22 minutes, shaking the basket every 5–6 minutes.
4. For extra crispy fries, increase the temperature to 200°C (400°F) for the last 2–3 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Fries

• Soaking the potatoes is the secret to crispier fries.
• Dry the potatoes thoroughly before adding oil.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate.
• Shake the basket several times for even browning.
• Season immediately after cooking while the fries are still hot.

Flavor Variations

• Garlic Parmesan: Toss with grated Parmesan and minced garlic after cooking.
• Cajun: Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning before air frying.
• Herb & Garlic: Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
• Spicy: Season with chili powder and cayenne pepper.
• Salt & Vinegar: Lightly mist with vinegar after cooking, then season with salt.

Best Dipping Sauces

• 🍅 Ketchup
• 🧄 Garlic aioli
• 🌶️ Spicy mayo
• 🍯 Honey mustard
• 🥣 Ranch dressing
• 🍖 BBQ sauce
• 🧀 Cheese sauce

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 3–5 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Pro Tip: Russet potatoes produce the crispiest fries thanks to their high starch content, but Yukon Gold potatoes also make delicious fries with a creamier interior. 🍟