Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

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Craving that golden, crispy French fry crunch without the mess and oil of deep frying? Let your air fryer work its magic. These Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries are irresistibly crisp on the outside and tender inside — the kind of fry that makes you forget drive-thrus even exist.

The air fryer doesn’t just save time; it transforms humble potatoes into restaurant-worthy fries with just a touch of oil. Perfect as a side, snack, or piled high next to your favorite burger, this recipe delivers big on crunch, flavor, and ease.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the slicing and seasoning, let’s talk prep. Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect batch of crispy fries:

1. Air Fryer: This is your MVP. The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, making each fry golden and crispy without a vat of oil.

2. Sharp Chef’s Knife or Mandoline: For even cooking, uniform fries are key. A mandoline ensures perfect cuts, while a sharp knife works great with a steady hand.

3. Large Bowl of Cold Water: Soaking the cut potatoes helps remove excess starch, a crucial step for achieving that signature crispness.

4. Clean Kitchen Towels or Paper Towels: Moisture is the enemy of crisp. Dry your soaked potatoes thoroughly before air frying.

5. Mixing Bowl: For tossing your fries with oil and seasoning evenly.

6. Tongs or Silicone Spatula: To toss the fries halfway through cooking without damaging the nonstick basket.

Having the right tools on hand makes prep smoother and the end result tastier. Let’s move on to ingredients and technique next.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

Russet Potatoes: The ideal fry potato — starchy and dense. They crisp up beautifully and have that fluffy interior we all love.

Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil): A light coating of oil helps the fries brown and crisp in the air fryer. Avocado oil works well for higher heat.

Salt: Essential for flavor. Season right after cooking so it sticks.

Optional Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, or parsley flakes if you want to upgrade your flavor game.

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How To Make the Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

Step 1: Wash and Cut the Potatoes

Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly and peel if preferred. Cut them into thin, even sticks about ¼-inch thick. Uniformity ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Soak the Fries

Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and prevents sogginess.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly

Drain and spread the potatoes on a clean towel. Pat them completely dry — any leftover moisture will steam instead of crisp.

Step 4: Oil and Season

Toss the fries in a bowl with olive oil and your chosen seasonings. Ensure every fry is coated evenly.

Step 5: Preheat and Load the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Add the fries in a single layer in the basket — avoid overcrowding to keep things crispy.

Step 6: Cook and Shake

Air fry for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through. Watch for golden edges and a crisp texture.

Step 7: Season and Serve

As soon as they’re done, hit them with a little extra salt while hot. Serve immediately for the best texture.

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Serving and Storing Your Crispy Homemade Air Fryer French Fries

Serve your fries hot out of the air fryer for peak crunch. They pair perfectly with everything from burgers and sandwiches to loaded fry toppings like cheese sauce, bacon crumbles, or spicy aioli.

If you end up with leftovers (rare, but possible!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes to bring back their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them limp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent soggy air fryer fries?

The key is removing excess moisture. Soak your potatoes, then dry them completely. Also, avoid overcrowding the basket so air can circulate.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, but russet potatoes deliver the crispiest results. Yukon Golds will give you a creamier texture, while red potatoes tend to be softer.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps achieve consistent browning. If your air fryer model suggests it, do it. It’s usually just 3–5 minutes.

Can I make these fries ahead of time?

You can prep the potatoes and soak them ahead, but for best results, air fry right before serving.

What are the best seasonings to try?

Smoked paprika, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, truffle salt, or parmesan can elevate your fries. Add herbs like parsley or thyme after cooking.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Don’t skip the soaking step, cut them thin and evenly, and always give the fries room to breathe in the fryer basket.

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Want More Air Fryer Snack Ideas?

If crispy sides and air fryer treats are your go-to, you’ll want to check out these favorites next:

Try the Air Fried Potato Wedges for a chunkier take on crispy potatoes. Or snack on Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles — crispy, tangy, and perfect for dipping.

Craving something a little bold? The Air Fryer Honey BBQ Explosion Chicken brings big flavor with minimal fuss.

Want veggie-friendly options? The Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower might surprise you with its crunch and flavor punch.

For a savory meal that includes crisp potatoes in a new way, the Beefy Cheesy Fries Burrito wraps fries into a full-on comfort food experience.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your snack or air fryer boards for later. Just click the Pin button.

If you make these fries, I’d love to know how they turned out. Did you go classic with just salt, or did you try a bold seasoning blend? Drop a comment below. And for daily kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate!

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