Crispy Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
Crispy fries never go out of style. That golden crunch on the outside with a soft and warm center is something you just cannot resist. Making them at home used to mean heating up a pot of oil and dealing with the mess. But now, with the help of an air fryer, you can enjoy the same crispy texture with hardly any oil and a whole lot less trouble. You get all the goodness of deep fried fries without the heavy grease or guilt.
This recipe is simple, fast, and works every time. It uses just a few basic ingredients, and the results are always delicious. Whether you are cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, these fries will disappear faster than you think. They are perfect as a side, a snack, or even the main event when you’re craving something comforting. Once you try them, you might never go back to the frozen kind again.
Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes650
kcalCrispy on the outside and soft in the center, these air fryer french fries are the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food with less oil and no deep frying. Made with simple ingredients and cooked to golden perfection, they are a quick and tasty side for any meal.
Ingredients
3 large russet potatoes
1 and a half tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of sea salt
Half a teaspoon of garlic powder
Half a teaspoon of paprika
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional chopped parsley for garnish
Ketchup or dipping sauce of choice for serving
Directions
- Start by washing the potatoes well under running water. Scrub off any dirt and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel. You do not need to peel them unless you prefer skinless fries. The skin actually adds a nice texture once crisped.
- Slice the potatoes into even sticks. Try to keep them around a quarter inch thick so they cook evenly. If you like them thinner or thicker, just adjust the cooking time a bit later. Soak the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water for about thirty minutes. This helps remove excess starch and makes them crispier once cooked.
- After soaking, drain the fries and spread them out on a towel. Pat them completely dry. Any leftover moisture can keep them from getting crispy. Once dry, place them in a large bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes. Sprinkle in sea salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Add a few cracks of black pepper. Toss everything well with your hands until the fries are fully coated in the oil and seasonings.
- Preheat your air fryer to around 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Once heated, place the fries in the basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd them. You can cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry the fries for about fifteen minutes. Pause halfway through and give the basket a good shake. This helps them cook evenly on all sides. After fifteen minutes, check the texture. If they are not crispy enough, you can give them a few extra minutes depending on your air fryer model.
- Once they are golden and crisp, remove them and let them cool for a minute or two. Sprinkle a little extra salt if you like. You can garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or just enjoy them on their own. They come out crispy on the outside and tender inside, without the need for deep frying.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Soaking the potato slices in cold water helps remove extra starch, which makes the fries crispier. Do not skip this step if you want the best texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed so the fries can crisp up evenly on all sides. A single layer gives the best results.

Conclusion
Air fryer french fries offer a simple way to enjoy a classic favorite without the mess and extra oil of deep frying. With just a few ingredients and an air fryer, you can create crispy, golden fries that taste amazing every time. Whether you want a quick snack or a side for dinner, this recipe delivers on texture and flavor. Give it a try and discover how easy it is to make your own perfectly crisp fries right at home. You might find yourself reaching for the air fryer more often than you thought.