Air Fryer French Fries

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely irresistible, air fryer French fries are the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Unlike traditional deep-fried fries, these are cooked with minimal oil, making them a healthier option without compromising flavor or crunch. Whether you’re pairing them with a burger or enjoying them as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce, these golden fries will become your go-to recipe for satisfying cravings. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and ready in no time, making them a winner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3 medium-sized russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into thin, even strips about ¼ inch thick. Soak the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness.
2. Dry the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving crispy fries.
3. Season the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, if using. Toss to ensure the fries are evenly coated.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
5. Cook the Fries: Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides are evenly browned.
6. Increase Crispiness: Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice, until the fries reach your desired level of crispiness.
7. Serve: Remove the fries from the air fryer, taste for seasoning, and adjust if needed. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips

• For extra-crispy fries, leave the potatoes soaking for up to an hour and add a light sprinkle of cornstarch before seasoning.
• Experiment with seasonings like Cajun spice, Parmesan cheese, or fresh herbs for unique flavors.

Enjoy your crispy, homemade air fryer French fries!