Craving crispy, golden french fries without the guilt? These air fryer french fries deliver the perfect crunch with minimal oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy homemade fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside—without the hassle of frying in hot oil.
Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or game-day treat, these fries are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings while keeping things light and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy & Golden: Achieves the perfect crunch with little to no oil.
Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Healthier Alternative: Less fat than traditional deep-fried fries.
Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp cornstarch for extra crispiness
Instructions
Prep the Potatoes
- Wash and cut the potatoes into ¼-inch thick fries (uniform size ensures even cooking).
- Soak the fries in cold water for 20-30 minutes to remove excess starch (this helps them crisp up).
- Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
Season the Fries
- In a bowl, toss the dry fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle 1 tsp of cornstarch over the fries and toss again.
Air Fry the Fries
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- For extra crispiness, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy
- Remove the fries from the air fryer and sprinkle with a little more salt if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or spicy mayo.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 150 | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 25g | Fiber: 3g | Protein: 3g
Tips for Success
- Soak the Potatoes: This helps remove starch and results in crispier fries.
- Pat Dry Completely: Excess moisture will cause steaming instead of crisping.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches to allow proper airflow.
- Shake the Basket: Ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Use Different Potatoes: Russet potatoes give the crispiest fries, but Yukon Golds provide a creamy texture.
Why This Recipe Works
- Minimal Oil, Maximum Crispiness: The air fryer gives you the texture of deep-fried fries with significantly less oil.
- Quick & Convenient: No need for messy frying—just toss and cook.
- Endless Seasoning Options: Try Cajun, parmesan garlic, or smoky chipotle for variety.
These air fryer french fries prove that you don’t need a deep fryer to achieve restaurant-quality results. They’re light, crispy, and full of flavor, making them a must-try for any fry lover. Enjoy them as a healthier alternative to fast food fries, and don’t forget your favorite dipping sauce!
Homemade Air Fryer French Fries: Better Than Fast Food
2-4
servings10
minutes15
minutes150
kcalIngredients
2 medium russet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled
1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: 1 tsp cornstarch for extra crispiness
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes
Wash and cut the potatoes into ¼-inch thick fries (uniform size ensures even cooking).
Soak the fries in cold water for 20-30 minutes to remove excess starch (this helps them crisp up).
Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel. - Season the Fries
In a bowl, toss the dry fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
For extra crispiness, sprinkle 1 tsp of cornstarch over the fries and toss again. - Air Fry the Fries
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed).
Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
For extra crispiness, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes. - Serve & Enjoy
Remove the fries from the air fryer and sprinkle with a little more salt if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or spicy mayo.
Notes
- Soak the Potatoes: This helps remove starch and results in crispier fries.
Pat Dry Completely: Excess moisture will cause steaming instead of crisping.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches to allow proper airflow.
Shake the Basket: Ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Use Different Potatoes: Russet potatoes give the crispiest fries, but Yukon Golds provide a creamy texture.