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The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer French Fries

Close-up of perfectly golden and crispy air fryer french fries sprinkled generously with salt.

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Make restaurant-quality, crispy air fryer french fries at home using fresh potatoes. This simple method uses minimal oil to achieve a golden exterior and a tender interior, making it a healthier side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large Russet potatoes, scrubbed
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cut the potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick fries. Uniform size helps them cook evenly.
  2. Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover completely with cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This removes excess starch, which is key for crispiness.
  3. Drain the water completely. Rinse the fries under cold water until the water runs clear.
  4. Dry the fries thoroughly. Spread them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat them completely dry. Moisture prevents crisping.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
  6. In a clean, dry bowl, toss the dried fries with 1 teaspoon of oil until lightly coated.
  7. Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  8. Air fry for 10 minutes, then shake the basket well.
  9. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Continue to cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, shaking every 3 minutes, until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Total cook time is usually 15 to 20 minutes depending on your air fryer model.
  10. Transfer the hot fries to a bowl. Immediately toss with sea salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Serve right away for the best texture.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly dust the dried potatoes with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch before adding the oil.
  • If using frozen fries, skip the soaking step. Toss them with 1 teaspoon of oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 18 minutes, shaking often.
  • To make garlic parmesan air fryer fries, toss the cooked fries with 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese immediately after seasoning.

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