Fries in Air Fryer Recipe

Fries in Air Fryer are made with simple Russet potatoes cut into uniform sticks, tossed in extra-virgin olive oil and sea salt, and circulated in hot air until they achieve a shatteringly crisp exterior and a fluffy, steaming interior. This method uses a fraction of the oil required for deep frying yet delivers that satisfying “chip shop” crunch without the grease. It is the ultimate guilt-free side dish or snack that transforms a humble potato into a golden, salty treat.

Jump to Recipe

Fries in Air Fryer Ingredients

• 2 Russet Potatoes: Sliced into ¼-inch sticks. Russets are high-starch, which ensures the inside becomes fluffy while the outside crisps. Waxy potatoes will not yield the same texture.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: For drizzling. You only need enough to coat the potatoes lightly, ensuring the hot air fries the skin rather than drying it out.
• Sea Salt: Coarse grains provide the best texture.
• Optional Add-Ons: Fresh chopped herbs (rosemary/parsley) or spices like chili or chipotle powder for a kick.

How To Make Fries in Air Fryer

1. Preheat the fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Allow it to preheat for about 3 to 5 minutes while you prep the vegetables. A hot basket is crucial for that initial sear.
2. Coat the potatoes: Place the sliced potato sticks in a large bowl. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Use your hands to toss the potatoes, ensuring every single stick is coated in a thin layer of oil and seasoning. This manual mixing is faster and more effective than using a spoon.
3. Cook the batches: Arrange the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overlap them, or they will steam instead of fry. You will likely need to cook in multiple batches. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. If they look pale, add another 2 minutes.
4. Reheat the fries: Once all batches are cooked, toss all the fries back into the basket together (it’s okay if they overlap now). Blast them for 1 to 2 minutes. This final reheat warms the first batch through and re-crisps any edges that may have softened while sitting.
5. Serve the dish: Tip the hot fries onto a serving platter. Top immediately with fresh herbs or spices if using. Serve with your dipping sauces of choice while piping hot.

Recipe Tips

• Potato Prep: Try to cut your fries into uniform sizes (¼-inch thick). If some are thick and some are thin, the thin ones will burn before the thick ones are cooked through.
• The Shake: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking is non-negotiable. It prevents the fries from sticking to the mesh and ensures the hot air hits every surface area.
• Oil Choice: While olive oil adds great flavor, you can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil for a higher smoke point if you prefer a neutral taste.
• Soaking Option: (Pro Tip) If you have extra time, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry them thoroughly before oiling. This removes surface starch and results in an even crispier fry, though the recipe works well without it for speed.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Fries?

These fries are the perfect partner for a classic homemade burger or steak frites. For a pub-style meal, serve them alongside battered fish with plenty of malt vinegar. They also stand alone as a snack with a flight of dipping sauces: ketchup, garlic mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, or a spicy chipotle sauce.

How To Store Leftovers Air Fryer Fries?

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They will lose their crunch in the cold.
• Reheat: Never microwave leftover fries. Place them back in the air fryer at 400°F for 3–5 minutes. They will crisp right back up to their original glory.
• Freeze: You can freeze the cooked fries. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes.

Fries in Air Fryer Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 3g
• Nutrition information is estimated per serving based on 2 potatoes.

FAQs