Air Fryer French Fries
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
80 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
International
Air Fryer French Fries
Description
This recipe uses whole russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, washed and cut into uniform 1/4-inch fries. The potato sticks soak in warm water for 10 minutes to remove surface starch, which helps improve crispness. After draining and drying, the fries are tossed with olive oil, fine sea salt, and garlic powder to add flavor and promote a golden crust during cooking.
The fries are cooked in an air fryer preheated to 375ºF, arranged in a single layer to allow hot air circulation and even browning. Cooking is done in two batches: an initial 10 minutes, then a shake to redistribute the fries, followed by a final 5 minutes until golden and crispy. This method produces fries with a nicely browned surface and a tender inside.
The fries are best served immediately while warm and crisp. If reheating is needed, using the air fryer’s reheat function for a few minutes restores crunchiness. Yukon Gold potatoes impart a creamier texture compared to russets, which are drier. Variations like sweet potato fries require a different method.
Nutrition info is an estimate based on 4 ounces of potato. Consistent drying after soaking and cooking the fries spaced apart in the fryer are key tips to achieve the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound russet potato scrubbed, or Yukon Gold potato
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375ºF, then slice the potatoes into french fry shapes, about 1/4-inch thick. Place the raw potato slices in a bowl of warm water and let them rest for 10 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes, pat dry, and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle them with the olive oil, then season with the salt and garlic powder. Toss well to coat the potatoes.
- Arrange the seasoned potato slices on the bottom of your air fryer basket, in a single layer, if possible. (I have to do this in 2 batches with my basket-style air fryer.) The more separated the potatoes, the crispier they will be.
- Cook the fries at 375ºF for 10 minutes, then shake the basket to help them cook evenly. Return the basket to the air fryer to cook for 5 more minutes, or until the fries are golden and crisp.
- Serve warm right away, as the fries will get softer as they cool. If you ever need to reheat the fries, most air fryers have a 4-minute "reheat" button that will help them crisp up again!
Notes
- Yukon Gold potatoes create creamier fries compared to the drier texture of russet potatoes.
- Soaking potato slices in warm water helps remove excess starch for crisper fries.
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer to promote even cooking; work in batches if necessary.
- Use the air fryer's reheat function to crisp up leftover fries before serving.
- This recipe is for regular potatoes; for sweet potato fries, refer to a specific sweet potato fries recipe.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 80 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 80kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Sodium | 8mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 351mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 9.7mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 25mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2.8mg | 16% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.