Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

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I’ve made French fries in just about every way you can think of—oven-baked, deep-fried, skillet-cooked—but once I tried them in the air fryer, there was no turning back. These Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries come out golden and crunchy on the outside, tender and fluffy inside, with just the right balance of seasoning. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple potato into something you can’t stop eating.

What makes this version stand out for me is how quick and clean it is. No oil splatter, no long wait for the oven to preheat, and still, you get those satisfying crispy edges. A quick toss in spices and a short stint in the air fryer delivers fries that rival any restaurant. I like to pair them with a classic garlic aioli or just good old ketchup, and they’re always gone in minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries Recipe

These fries are all about maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The air fryer creates a perfect texture without drowning the fries in oil, and the custom seasoning mix adds an addictive kick. They’re healthier than deep-fried, easy to adapt to your flavor preferences, and ready in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or just yourself, this recipe fits the craving without the hassle.

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What Type of Potatoes Work Best for Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries?

For this recipe, I always reach for Russet potatoes. They’re high in starch and low in moisture, which is exactly what you want when you’re after that signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Yukon Golds can work too if you’re looking for a slightly creamier texture, but nothing quite matches the crisp factor of Russets. Just make sure to rinse and soak them before cooking to remove excess starch—that step really pays off.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of Russets, sweet potatoes are a delicious alternative. They won’t crisp up quite as much but deliver a unique flavor and extra nutrients. For the seasoning, feel free to swap paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or add chili powder for heat. Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil or even a light spray of canola for a lower-fat option. And for those avoiding salt, try a salt-free herb blend to keep flavor levels high.

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Ingredients for This Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries Recipe

Russet Potatoes
These are the star of the show. Their starchy texture crisps beautifully in the air fryer and gives that classic fry bite.

Olive Oil
Just a light coating helps the fries get golden and crispy without deep frying. It also helps the seasoning stick evenly.

Garlic Powder
Adds a savory depth and slight kick—way more flavor than plain salt alone.

Paprika
Gives a warm, subtle smokiness and adds color to the fries. It’s the ingredient that makes these look as good as they taste.

Salt
Essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the potato. Season to taste!

Black Pepper
Adds a bit of heat and rounds out the seasoning blend with a mild bite.

Optional: Onion Powder or Cayenne Pepper
For an extra layer of flavor or a hint of heat, these are great additions to tailor the fries to your preference.

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Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Wash, peel (optional), and cut the potatoes into even-sized sticks—about 1/4 inch thick for that perfect fry shape. Uniformity helps them cook evenly and crisp up nicely.

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Step 2: Soak for Crispiness

Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, which helps the fries crisp up rather than steam in the air fryer.

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Step 3: Dry and Season

Drain the soaked fries and pat them completely dry with a clean towel. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each fry is well-coated for maximum flavor.

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Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This ensures the fries start cooking immediately for a crispier finish.

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Step 5: Air Fry in Batches

Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd. Cook at 380°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. Repeat with remaining batches if needed.

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Step 6: Serve Hot

Once crispy and golden, serve the fries straight from the fryer. Sprinkle with extra salt or any final seasonings, and enjoy while they’re piping hot!

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How Long to Cook the Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

The total cook time is typically between 15 to 18 minutes at 380°F (193°C). It depends on how thick your fries are and how crispy you like them. I usually start checking at the 14-minute mark. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. For ultra-crispy fries, give them an extra 2–3 minutes, keeping an eye out so they don’t over-brown.

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

• Soak the Potatoes: This step isn’t optional if you want that ideal crunch. Soaking pulls out starch and prevents soggy fries.
• Dry Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crisp. After soaking, pat the fries down well before seasoning.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. A crowded basket leads to steaming, not crisping.
• Shake the Basket: Flip or shake the fries halfway through to get that golden color on all sides.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After frying, give them a quick taste test. Sometimes a pinch more salt right out of the fryer does wonders.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Soak: It might seem like a hassle, but skipping this step often results in limp, soggy fries instead of crispy ones.
• Not Drying the Fries Enough: Any moisture left on the potatoes can prevent them from crisping up and cause uneven cooking.
• Using Too Much Oil: A light coating is all you need. Excess oil can lead to greasy fries and smoky air fryer baskets.
• Crowding the Basket: Trying to cook all your fries at once will only steam them. Give them space to breathe.
• Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Starting with a cold fryer can throw off cooking times and lead to uneven texture.
• Neglecting to Shake or Flip: This ensures even crisping. A quick shake halfway through the cook makes a big difference.

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What to Serve With Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries?

Grilled Steak

Perfectly seared steak pairs like a dream with crispy fries—classic steak frites style.

Juicy Burgers

Burgers and fries are a timeless match. These air fryer fries bring the comfort without the extra grease.

Gourmet Hot Dogs

Top your hot dogs with fun condiments and serve alongside a heaping pile of fries for a backyard favorite.

Club Sandwich

Add a side of seasoned fries to any deli-style sandwich for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

Fish Tacos

Crispy fries and zesty fish tacos offer a coastal spin on dinner with contrast in textures and flavors.

Veggie Burgers

For a meatless option, pair the fries with a hearty veggie burger and a dollop of spicy mayo.

Fried Egg & Avocado Toast

Turn brunch into a real treat by serving fries with egg-topped toast—unexpected and delicious.

Caesar Salad

Balance the fries with something green. A crisp Caesar salad with a lemony dressing complements them perfectly.

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Storage Instructions

Leftover fries? Don’t worry—they can still be delicious. Let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, skip the microwave and pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F for 4–6 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid stacking them during reheating; a single layer ensures they stay crunchy.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate based on one serving (about 1 cup of fries):

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg

This will vary depending on your choice of oil, exact potato size, and how much seasoning you use, but overall, it’s a lighter option compared to deep-fried versions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep air fryer fries from getting soggy?

Make sure to soak the potatoes, dry them thoroughly, and avoid overcrowding the basket. Each of these steps helps keep fries crisp.

Can I skip the soaking step?

You can, but your fries won’t be as crispy. Soaking removes excess starch, which is key to that crunchy texture.

What’s the best oil to use for air fryer fries?

Olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil all work well. Use a light coat—just enough to help the seasoning stick and promote browning.

Can I make these fries ahead of time?

You can prep and soak the potatoes in advance. Store them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then dry and cook when ready.

Why are my fries burning in the air fryer?

They might be too thin, too dry, or cooked at too high a temp. Try reducing the temperature or cook time slightly and watch closely.

Can I use frozen fries for this recipe?

You can! Just reduce the seasoning since many frozen fries come pre-seasoned. No need to soak them—just cook from frozen.

What seasonings can I add for variety?

Try Cajun seasoning, rosemary and garlic, curry powder, or ranch mix for fun variations. The base recipe is easy to customize.

Are these fries gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your seasonings are certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it’s just potatoes, oil, and spices.

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Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries are one of those simple pleasures that deliver big-time satisfaction. They’re healthier than traditional fries, quick to make, and customizable to suit your flavor cravings. Once you master the basic method—soak, season, and don’t overcrowd—you’ll be whipping these up regularly. Whether it’s a snack, a side, or the star of the show, these fries never disappoint.

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