Simple Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, these homemade fries are easy to make and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
- 3 Large Potatoes
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional to add a little bit of spice.
Instructions
- First, scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Since the skin adds texture and nutrients, peeling is optional. Using a sharp knife or a mandolin, cut the potatoes into uniform ¼-inch thick sticks. Making sure the fries are all the same size is crucial for even cooking.
- Place the cut potatoes into a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, though several hours is even better. This essential step removes excess starch, which prevents the fries from sticking together and is the key to making them incredibly crispy.
- Drain the water from the bowl. Spread the soaked potatoes on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat them until they are completely dry. Any remaining moisture will turn to steam in the air fryer, preventing the fries from getting crispy.
- Return the dry potatoes to the empty bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss everything together until each fry is evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cooking in a single layer allows the hot air to circulate freely, which is vital for achieving crispiness. You will likely need to cook in 2-3 batches.Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. Cooking times can vary depending on your air fryer model, so start checking them at the 12-minute mark. The fries are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Once all batches are cooked, you can toss them all back into the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to ensure they are all hot. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or BBQ sauce.