Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make crispy and golden air fryer French fries at home. This version uses minimal oil and turns out just as delicious as deep-fried fries — if not better!
🍟 Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
✅ Ingredients:
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2 large russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for a creamier center)
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1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil)
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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Optional seasonings:
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Black pepper
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Onion powder
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Cajun seasoning
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Parmesan (after cooking)
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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Peel (optional) and cut the potatoes
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Wash and optionally peel the potatoes.
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Cut into sticks — about ¼ inch to ½ inch thick. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.
Pro Tip: Thinner fries = crispier. Thicker fries = softer center.
2. Soak the fries
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Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water.
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Soak for 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour).
Why soak?
This removes excess starch, helping them get crispier in the air fryer.
3. Dry them thoroughly
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After soaking, drain and pat dry the fries using a clean towel or paper towels.
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Dry fries = crispier texture.
4. Season and oil the fries
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In a dry bowl, toss the fries with:
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1–2 tablespoons of oil (just enough to coat)
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Salt and any desired seasonings
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Example seasoning mix:
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp black pepper
5. Preheat the air fryer (optional but recommended)
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Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) or 400°F (200°C).
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Preheat for 3–5 minutes if your model allows.
6. Cook the fries
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Place fries in the basket in a single layer — avoid overcrowding.
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Air fry at 375–400°F (190–200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket every 5 minutes.
Time breakdown:
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5 minutes: toss
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10 minutes: toss again
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15 minutes: check doneness
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18–20 minutes: crisp up to desired level
⏰ Total Time: ~45 minutes (including soaking)
7. Crisping tips:
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For extra crispiness, spray fries lightly with oil halfway through.
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Work in batches if needed. Overcrowding = soggy fries.
8. Serve immediately
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As soon as they’re golden brown and crisp, remove them from the air fryer.
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Add a final pinch of salt or fresh herbs like parsley.
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Optional: sprinkle with grated Parmesan or truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
🍔 Serving Ideas:
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Dipping sauces:
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Ketchup
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Garlic aioli
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Spicy mayo
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Ranch
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Side to:
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Burgers
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Fried chicken sandwiches
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Veggie wraps
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🧊 Storage & Reheating:
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Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Re-crisp in air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes.