How to Make Fries in Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Crispy, Delicious Results Every Time​

If you’ve ever craved that golden, crispy fries from your favorite fast-food joint but wanted a healthier, easier way to make them at home, the air fryer is your answer. Making fries in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s simple, quick, and delivers results that rival deep-fried versions with a fraction of the oil. The key lies in choosing the right potatoes, prepping them properly, and mastering the air fryer’s temperature and timing. With a few pro tips, you’ll be enjoying restaurant-quality crispy fries in under 30 minutes, no deep fryer required.

Why Air Fryer Fries Are a Game-Changer

Before diving into the steps, let’s clarify why air fryer fries deserve your attention. Unlike oven-baked fries, which often turn out soft or unevenly cooked, air fryers use rapid, high-heat air circulation to crisp the exterior while keeping the interior fluffy. This method uses 70-80% less oil than deep frying, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—most air fryer baskets are non-stick or dishwasher-safe. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or just someone who loves fries, this guide will turn you into an air fryer fry master.

Step 1: Choose the Right Potatoes (This Makes All the Difference)

The foundation of great air fryer fries starts with selecting the correct potato variety. Potatoes high in starch and low in moisture are ideal because they yield a fluffy interior and crisp exterior. Here’s what to look for:

• ​Russet Potatoes: These are the gold standard. Their high starch content (around 20%) breaks down during cooking, creating light, airy slices that crisp up beautifully. Russets also have a thick skin (which you can peel or leave on for extra texture) and hold their shape well when cut.

• ​Idaho Potatoes: Similar to Russets, Idaho potatoes are another high-starch option. They’re widely available and work just as well for fries.

• ​Avoid Waxy Potatoes: Red Bliss, Yukon Gold, or fingerling potatoes have lower starch and higher moisture. They tend to steam instead of crisp, resulting in soggy fries. Save these for mashed potatoes or roasted dishes.

​Pro Tip: Opt for medium-to-large potatoes (about 6-8 ounces each). Smaller ones may be too thin and burn, while larger ones can be uneven to cut.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes: Cut, Soak, and Dry (Non-Negotiable Steps)

Even the best potatoes won’t crisp if not prepped correctly. Follow these steps to ensure maximum crispiness:

​Wash and Peel (Optional)​​

Scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove dirt. If you prefer skin-on fries, scrub extra well—some people love the added texture. For peeled fries, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin.

​Cut Uniformly​

Slice the potatoes into even strips, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Uniformity is key—uneven pieces will cook at different rates, leaving some soggy and others overcooked. Use a mandoline slicer for precision, but a sharp knife works too (just take it slow to avoid uneven cuts).

​Soak in Cold Water to Remove Excess Starch​

Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge). Soaking removes surface starch, which prevents sticking and promotes crispiness. The water will turn cloudy—this is the starch leaching out.

​Rinse and Dry Thoroughly​

Drain the potatoes and rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining starch. Spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat dry aggressively. Even a tiny bit of moisture can prevent crisping. For extra insurance, let them air-dry for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Optional but Recommended: Freeze the Fries

This step is a game-changer for ultra-crispy results. After drying, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). Freezing dehydrates the surface further, creating a drier exterior that crisps faster in the air fryer. Don’t skip this if you want fries that stay crisp long after cooking.

Step 4: Season and Oil the Fries (Lightly!)

Air fryer fries don’t need much oil—too much will make them soggy. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of high-heat oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil work best; olive oil can burn at high temps). Drizzle the oil over the fries and toss gently with your hands or a spoon to coat evenly.

​Seasoning Tips:

• ​Classic Salt: Add ½ teaspoon of kosher salt (or to taste) after tossing with oil.

• ​Spice It Up: Try garlic powder, paprika, chili flakes, or rosemary for extra flavor.

• ​Herb-Infused: Toss with dried oregano, thyme, or parsley for a Mediterranean twist.

• ​Cheesy: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese powder over the fries before cooking for a savory kick.

Step 5: Air Fryer Settings: Temperature and Time

Now, the moment of truth—cooking the fries. Preheating the air fryer is critical; it ensures the fries start crisping immediately rather than steaming.

​Preheat the Air Fryer​

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Most models have a preheat indicator light—wait for it to turn off before adding the fries.

​Arrange the Fries in the Basket​

Spread the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—overlapping pieces will steam instead of crisp. If you have a lot of fries, cook them in batches (use a second basket or cook in two rounds).

​Cook Time and Temperature Adjustments​

• ​For Crispy Fries: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. Check at 15 minutes—if they’re golden and crispy, they’re done. If not, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

• ​For Softer, Fluffier Fries: Reduce the temperature to 380°F (193°C) and cook for 18-22 minutes. Shake more frequently to prevent burning.

• ​Extra-Thick Cuts: If your fries are ½ inch or thicker, increase the temperature to 425°F (218°C) and cook for 20-25 minutes. Thicker cuts need more heat to crisp the exterior.

​Pro Tip: If your air fryer tends to run hot (some models do), reduce the temperature by 25°F (14°C) to avoid burning the edges.

Step 6: Serve Immediately (Here’s Why Timing Matters)

Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer immediately. Let them cool slightly on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil, then season with additional salt or spices if needed. Serving right away is crucial—air fryer fries lose crispiness as they sit, so enjoy them fresh.

Troubleshooting Common Air Fryer Fry Issues

Even with perfect prep, you might encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix them:

​Fries Are Soggy, Not Crispy​

• ​Cause: Too much moisture (didn’t dry the potatoes enough) or overcrowding the basket.

• ​Fix: Pat the fries drier next time, and cook in smaller batches. Soaking in cold water for 2+ hours can also help remove more starch.

​Fries Stick to the Basket​

• ​Cause: Insufficient oil or not preheating the air fryer.

• ​Fix: Lightly coat the basket with oil or use a non-stick spray before adding fries. Always preheat the air fryer.

​Burnt Edges, Raw Centers​

• ​Cause: Unevenly cut fries or cooking at too high a temperature.

• ​Fix: Cut fries uniformly, and reduce the temperature by 25°F (14°C) for thicker cuts. Shake the basket more frequently.

Advanced Tips for Next-Level Air Fryer Fries

Once you’ve mastered the basics, experiment with these variations:

• ​Sweet Potato Fries: Swap Russets for sweet potatoes. They cook faster (12-18 minutes at 380°F/193°C) and have a naturally sweet flavor. Toss with cinnamon or a maple glaze after cooking.

• ​Truffle Fries: After cooking, drizzle with truffle oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.

• ​Veggie Fries: Mix potatoes with carrots, parsnips, or zucchini (cut into matchsticks). Add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

• ​Loaded Fries: Top crispy fries with cheese sauce, chili, or guacamole for a decadent appetizer.

Final Thoughts: Air Fryer Fries Are Worth the Effort

Making fries in an air fryer is far simpler than you might think, and the results are worth every minute. By choosing the right potatoes, prepping them carefully, and mastering the air fryer’s settings, you’ll never reach for frozen, bagged fries again. Whether you’re craving classic salted fries, spicy Cajun-style, or sweet potato goodness, the air fryer delivers crispy, satisfying results every time. Grab your potatoes, fire up the air fryer, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade fries you’ve ever had.

Now that you know how to make fries in air fryer, what’s your first flavor experiment? Let us know in the comments!