Air fryer homemade French fries: 5 steps to crispy bliss

Name: Air fryer homemade French fries: 5 steps to crispy bliss
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 27, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, let me tell you about my love for air fryer homemade French fries! Seriously, there’s something magical about transforming simple potatoes into crispy, golden perfection. I remember the first time I tried making fries in my air fryer; I was skeptical, but wow, they turned out better than I ever expected! The air fryer gives you that satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep frying. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, right? Plus, you can whip them up in no time! The best part? You can customize them to your heart’s content with your favorite seasonings. Whether you like them classic with just salt or a little adventurous with garlic and herbs, this recipe is a game-changer. Trust me, once you taste these fries, you’ll be hooked, and they’ll become your go-to side dish for everything from burgers to salads!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you need to whip up these delicious air fryer homemade French fries:

4 large potatoes: I love using Russet potatoes for their starchy goodness, which makes for the crispiest fries. Just wash and peel them before cutting.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the fries crisp up beautifully. You can also use avocado oil if you prefer!
1 teaspoon salt: A must for flavor! You can adjust it to your taste, though.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This is my secret weapon for that extra layer of flavor. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!

How to Prepare Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

First things first, you’ll want to wash your large potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. I like to give them a good scrub with a vegetable brush. Once they’re clean, it’s time to peel them! Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, making sure to get all the spots. You want those beautiful, white potatoes to shine through for the best fries!

Step 2: Cutting and Soaking the Fries

Next up, grab your sharp knife and cutting board. Slice the peeled potatoes into thin strips—about 1/4 inch thick should do it! The thinner they are, the crispier they’ll get. Once cut, it’s crucial to soak those fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step is key because it helps remove excess starch, which leads to that perfect crunch. Don’t skip this part! After soaking, drain them and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. You want them to be as dry as possible before seasoning.

Step 3: Seasoning the Fries

Now it’s time to infuse those fries with flavor! In a large bowl, toss the dried potato strips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. I like to use my hands for this—just get in there and make sure each fry is coated evenly. The oil helps them crisp up in the air fryer, while the seasonings will make your fries sing with flavor!

Step 4: Cooking the Fries

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is important because it ensures your fries start cooking immediately, helping them get that crispy texture we love. Once preheated, place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s okay if they’re touching a bit, but avoid overcrowding! Cook them for 15-20 minutes, and don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through. This helps them cook evenly and get that golden-brown color on all sides!

Step 5: Serving the Fries

Finally, it’s time to enjoy those crispy homemade fries! Carefully remove them from the air fryer and serve them hot. They’re best enjoyed right away, but you can also sprinkle a little extra salt on top if you like. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup or aioli, and watch them disappear!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk nutrition! These air fryer homemade French fries are not just delicious; they’re also a guilt-free option compared to traditional fried fries. On average, one serving (about a generous portion) contains around 180 calories, with 7 grams of fat, including just 1 gram of saturated fat. You’ll get 3 grams of protein and 29 grams of carbohydrates, along with 3 grams of fiber, making them a satisfying side. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific potatoes and seasonings you use. So, feel free to enjoy them without worry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy texture: Thanks to the air fryer, you get that delightful crunch without all the oil!
Quick preparation: From washing to serving, you can have these fries ready in under an hour!
Healthier alternative: Using less oil means fewer calories, making these fries a guilt-free indulgence.
Customizable flavors: You can experiment with seasonings to create your perfect fry!
Family-friendly: Everyone loves fries, and this recipe makes it easy to whip up a batch for the whole family!

Tips for Success

Want to take your air fryer homemade French fries to the next level? Here are my top tips! First off, don’t rush the soaking process. Soaking the fries for a bit longer—up to an hour—can help achieve that extra crispy texture we all crave. Also, experimenting with different seasonings can really elevate your fry game! Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky kick or even some Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist. And remember, shaking the basket halfway through cooking is crucial for even browning. These little tweaks can make a huge difference, so have fun with it!

Variations

There are so many fun ways to switch up your air fryer homemade French fries! First, let’s talk potatoes—while Russets are my go-to, you can also use Yukon Golds for a creamier texture or sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly!

For seasonings, the sky’s the limit! Try adding some Cajun spice for a bit of heat or toss in some ranch seasoning for a zesty kick. If you want to go gourmet, sprinkle on some truffle oil and Parmesan after cooking for a luxurious touch. You can even experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh, fragrant twist. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftover air fryer homemade French fries (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is key to keeping that crispy texture. Simply pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re heated through and crispy again. Trust me, this method brings them back to life beautifully!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use frozen fries in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Frozen fries can be a great time-saver. Just toss them in the air fryer straight from the freezer, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and shake the basket halfway through for even cooking!

Q2. How do I make my fries extra crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, make sure to soak your cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. The longer they soak, the crunchier they’ll be! Also, don’t overload the air fryer basket; air circulation is key!

Q3. What types of potatoes work best for homemade fries?
Russet potatoes are my favorite due to their high starch content, which makes for crispy fries. However, you can also use Yukon Golds or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture!

Q4. Can I season my fries differently?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with various seasonings. Cajun spice, garlic and herb blends, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can take your air fryer homemade French fries to the next level!