Love sinking your teeth into a basket of perfectly crispy, golden-brown French fries? Who doesn’t! But let’s be real, deep frying is messy and unhealthy, and oven-baked fries often turn out limp and sad. If you’re on the hunt for that ideal crunch without all the fuss, an air fryer is your new best friend. It’s a game-changer for transforming those frozen spuds into a delicious snack or side.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best air fryer for frozen French fries? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back (and your fry cravings!). We’ve rounded up the top contenders that promise to deliver consistently crisp results, with less oil and more flavor. Get ready to discover your next kitchen MVP!
Our Top Picks for Crispy Fries
Here’s a detailed look at the air fryers and complementary products that truly stand out for making frozen French fries fabulous.
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
This multi-functional kitchen powerhouse isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a full-fledged cooking station designed to tackle everything from a 6-lb rotisserie chicken to, yes, perfectly crisp frozen French fries. Its elegant French doors and generous 26-quart capacity make it a showstopper on any countertop, while the dual-speed fan ensures 360º superheated air circulation, guaranteeing that golden-fried crisping we all crave. It’s truly one of the best air fryer for frozen French fries if you’re looking for an all-in-one appliance.
Key Features:
– A versatile air fryer and multi-cooker combo
– Perfectly done toast with automatic shut-off
– 25 cooking pre-sets for diverse meals
– Dual-speed fan for 360º superheated air circulation
– Extra-large 26-quart capacity, suitable for 4–6 people
– Stainless steel exterior with elegant French doors
Pros:
– Highly versatile with numerous cooking functions
– Large capacity is great for families or entertaining
– French doors and interior light offer convenience and style
– Excellent air circulation for even cooking and crisping
Cons:
– Takes up significant counter space
– Higher price point compared to smaller, single-function air fryers
User Impressions: Customers rave about its versatility and ability to produce perfectly cooked meals, highlighting its toaster oven functions alongside impressive air frying results for everything from fries to roasted chicken. Many appreciate the large capacity for family meals.
Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360 Air Fryer Oven Combo
If you’re all about efficiency and multi-tasking in the kitchen, this dual-zone marvel is a dream come true. Imagine cooking your main dish in one zone while simultaneously crisping up a batch of frozen French fries in another, both finishing at the same time thanks to QuickSync Technology! This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s 10 kitchen tools blended into one XL 25-Qt capacity convection oven, making it incredibly easy to go “frozen to fabulous” in minutes.
Key Features:
– All-in-one air fryer toaster oven combo (10 tools in one)
– Dual-zone mastery for simultaneous cooking
– QuickSync Technology for perfectly synced meal finishes
– Generous XL 25-Qt. capacity, can remove dividers for larger dishes
– Designed to go from frozen to fabulous in minutes (e.g., frozen shrimp to scampi in 10 mins)
Pros:
– Dual zones and QuickSync are revolutionary for meal prep
– Extremely versatile, replacing multiple appliances
– Large capacity accommodates family-sized meals
– Excellent for quickly cooking frozen items without thawing
Cons:
– Complex features might have a learning curve for some users
– Substantial footprint due to its multi-functionality
User Impressions: Users are particularly impressed with the dual-zone cooking and QuickSync feature, noting how much time it saves in preparing complete meals. The ability to cook frozen items so quickly and effectively is a major plus for busy households.
Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil
For those seeking a dedicated air fryer that truly excels at its core function – air frying – the Ninja 4-quart model is a fantastic choice. It consistently delivers crispy results with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, making it a healthy win. Its 4-in-1 versatility allows you to air fry, roast, reheat, and even dehydrate, all while fitting a generous 2 lbs of French fries, ensuring you’ll have plenty of perfectly cooked, guilt-free spuds.
Key Features:
– Up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods
– Wide temperature range: 105°F-400°F
– Family-sized 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket
– 4-in-1 versatility: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
– Easy-to-clean dishwasher safe parts
Pros:
– Delivers exceptionally crispy results for fries with less oil
– Compact enough for smaller countertops but still good capacity
– Easy to clean, which is a huge bonus
– Versatile for various cooking needs beyond just frying
Cons:
– Smaller capacity than oven-style air fryers
– Fewer preset options compared to more advanced models
User Impressions: This Ninja air fryer consistently receives high marks for its ability to create super crispy French fries and other fried foods. Users love its straightforward operation, quick cooking times, and how easy it is to clean after use.
Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food French Fries
While not an air fryer itself, these Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food French Fries are an absolute must-have if you’re looking to maximize your air frying experience. Designed to crisp up beautifully in an air fryer, oven, or deep fryer, they offer that classic straight-cut shape and satisfying crispness that’s perfect for dipping. Pair these with any of the air fryers on our list, and you’ll understand why it’s crucial to have the right frozen french fries to go with your best air fryer for frozen French fries.
Key Features:
– One 26 oz bag of Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries
– Gluten-free
– Easily prepare in your air fryer, oven, or deep fryer
– Classic straight cut shape for maximum crispness
– Sealed in a bag for convenient freezer storage
Pros:
– Specifically designed to get extra crispy results
– Convenient and easy to prepare
– Gluten-free option
– Great classic taste and texture
Cons:
– As a food product, it’s a consumable, not a durable good
– Can become soggy if overcooked or if the air fryer isn’t performing well
User Impressions: Customers consistently praise these fries for delivering on their “extra crispy” promise, especially when prepared in an air fryer. They’re a popular choice for those wanting fast-food style fries at home.
Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries
Another fantastic frozen food item that complements your air frying journey is the Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries. These aren’t your average plain fries; they come seasoned for that unmistakable flavor you love from the restaurant, making them incredibly easy to transform into a crispy, flavorful snack or side right in your air fryer. They’re a game-changer for bringing the drive-thru experience home with minimal effort.
Key Features:
– Frozen, pre-seasoned French fries
– Offers a unique, restaurant-quality flavor
– Convenient for quick preparation
Pros:
– Distinctive seasoning for a more flavorful fry
– Quick and easy to prepare in an air fryer
– Great for a fast-food experience at home
Cons:
– As a food product, it’s a consumable
– May not appeal to those who prefer unseasoned fries
User Impressions: Fans of Checkers and Rally’s restaurants absolutely love being able to replicate their famous fries at home. They note how well they crisp up in air fryers and appreciate the convenient seasoning.
Midea Flexify French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo
The Midea Flexify is a beautifully designed air fryer toaster oven combo that boasts a “Cyclone Air Fryer” technology, promising 25% faster cooking and an impressive 90% less oil. With 10 versatile functions from air fry to slow cook, and a spacious 26.4 QT capacity, it’s incredibly flexible. Its elegant French doors and precise temperature control make it a joy to use, ensuring your frozen French fries come out perfectly golden and crisp without needing preheating.
Key Features:
– Cyclone Air Fryer for 25% faster cooking and 90% less oil
– VDE-certified heat evenness with no preheating needed for air fry
– Versatile 10 functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Toast, Pizza, Reheat, Slow Cook, Dehydrate, Warm
– Large 26.4 QT French door capacity
– Precise temperature (5°F increments) and time control (1-minute increments)
– Elegant design with anti-scald double French doors and LED digital display
Pros:
– Exceptionally fast and efficient air frying
– Highly versatile with many cooking functions
– Large capacity is ideal for families and entertaining
– Precise controls allow for perfect results
– Stylish design enhances kitchen aesthetics
Cons:
– Large footprint might be an issue for smaller kitchens
– Can be more expensive than basic air fryers
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the speed and efficiency of this Midea unit, especially its air frying capabilities. The large capacity and stylish design are frequently highlighted as major advantages, making it a popular choice for busy homes.
Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size
The Chefman TurboFry® Touch is an excellent choice for families looking for a dedicated air fryer with ample capacity and smart features. This 8-quart model promises crispy delights with 98% less oil and includes convenient one-touch presets for common foods like fries. The innovative LED shake reminder ensures even crispiness, meaning no more unevenly cooked fries. It’s a sleek, spacious, and family-sized solution to getting healthy, delicious, and perfectly crispy French fries.
Key Features:
– Crispy delights with 98% less oil
– One-touch presets for various foods (fries, chicken, fish, meat)
– LED shake reminder for even crispiness
– Precise temperature range from 200-400°F
– Effortless cleaning with dishwasher-safe basket and tray
– Intelligent shutoff for safety
– Family-sized (8-Qt) for 4-6 people
Pros:
– Excellent for achieving even crispiness with the shake reminder
– Large capacity perfect for family use
– Very easy to clean due to dishwasher-safe components
– Intuitive one-touch controls simplify cooking
Cons:
– Primarily an air fryer, less versatile than oven combos
– Some users might prefer more manual control over presets
User Impressions: Customers love the Chefman TurboFry for its consistent ability to produce crispy results, especially for frozen items like fries. The shake reminder is frequently praised, and the large capacity makes it a go-to for family meals.
Oster Extra-Large French Door Air Fryer Countertop Oven
Bringing elegance and versatility to your countertop, the Oster Extra-Large French Door Air Fryer Oven is designed to handle big batches with ease. It accommodates 15″ x 12″ baking pans and even two large pizzas, so imagine how many frozen French fries you can crisp up! With 6 cooking presets and the ability to use 99.5% less oil than deep fryers, it’s a healthier and more convenient way to achieve that satisfying crunch. Its beautiful French doors also make it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
Key Features:
– Elegant French doors for convenient access
– Ultra-spacious: accommodates 15″ x 12″ baking pans or 2 large pizzas
– Diverse 6 cooking presets for versatile meal options
– Healthier cooking: uses 99.5% less oil compared to deep fryers
– Programmable 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff
– User-friendly separate controls for function, time, and temperature
– Includes air fry rack, wire/broil rack, baking pan, and crumb tray
Pros:
– Extremely large capacity for big families or entertaining
– Stylish French door design
– Multiple cooking functions for versatile meal prep
– Healthier cooking with minimal oil
Cons:
– Requires significant counter space
– Might take longer to heat up due to its size
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the sheer size and versatility of this Oster oven. It’s often praised for its ability to handle large meals and for making healthier, crispy versions of fried foods, including generous batches of fries.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro takes the already popular Ninja air frying experience up a notch. Featuring “AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY” that surrounds food with 400℉ superheated air, it promises hot, crispy results with little to no oil. Its 5-QT nonstick basket can hold up to 4 lbs of French fries, ensuring you can cook a generous portion for your family or friends. It’s also a fantastic space-saver on your countertop while still delivering impressive capacity and functionality, making it a strong contender for the best air fryer for frozen French fries.
Key Features:
– AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY for hot, crispy results with little to no oil
– Large 5-QT nonstick basket fits up to 4 lbs of French fries
– 4-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate
– Guilt-free fried foods: up to 75% less fat
– Cooks frozen foods to an extra-crispy finish in minutes
– Space-saver design
– Easy-to-clean nonstick basket and crisper plate
Pros:
– Excellent crisping technology for perfect fries
– Generous capacity for a compact air fryer
– Versatile with multiple cooking functions
– Easy to clean and convenient countertop footprint
Cons:
– Lacks the oven-style multi-functionality of larger units
– Some users might miss more advanced digital displays
User Impressions: This Ninja model is a favorite for its consistently crispy results and ease of use. Users particularly appreciate its capacity for making large batches of fries and wings, as well as its space-saving design.
Nuwave Air Fry Basket for the NuWave Bravo XL
While not an air fryer itself, this Nuwave Air Fry Basket is a crucial accessory for anyone serious about optimizing their air frying experience, especially for frozen French fries, within a compatible convection oven like the NuWave Bravo XL. Its practical mesh design with raised edges facilitates excellent airflow on all sides, ensuring a perfectly even crisp. If you already own a compatible oven, this basket elevates your air frying game, leading to truly superior results.
Key Features:
– Perfect for air frying wings, onion rings, and French fries
– Up to 85% less fat than traditional fried foods
– Practical design with raised edges and mesh for optimal airflow
– Durable and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
– Size: 10”D x 12”W x 3”H, compatible with most convection ovens
– Designed and developed in the USA
Pros:
– Enhances air frying performance in compatible ovens
– Ensures even crisping with superior airflow
– Very easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
– Durable construction
Cons:
– Requires a compatible convection oven; not a standalone appliance
– An additional purchase for existing oven owners
User Impressions: Users who own a compatible NuWave oven (or similar convection models) rave about this basket. They report significantly improved crispiness and even cooking for air-fried items like fries, saying it’s a “must-have” accessory.
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Frying Frozen French Fries
Q1: Why should I use an air fryer for frozen French fries instead of an oven?
A1: Air fryers circulate super-heated air around the fries, creating a convection effect that mimics deep frying, resulting in a much crispier, more evenly cooked fry than a conventional oven can achieve. They also cook faster and require less (or no) oil, making them a healthier and more efficient option.
Q2: Do I need to add oil to frozen French fries when using an air fryer?
A2: Most frozen French fries are already pre-cooked with some oil. You don’t need to add more, but a light mist of cooking spray (like avocado or olive oil spray) can help achieve an even crispier, golden-brown finish and prevent sticking. Avoid aerosol sprays as they can damage the air fryer’s non-stick coating.
Q3: What’s the ideal temperature and time for air frying frozen French fries?
A3: Generally, 375-400°F (190-205°C) for 12-20 minutes is a good starting point, depending on your air fryer model, the thickness of the fries, and your desired crispiness. Always shake the basket or flip the fries every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Q4: How do I make my air-fried French fries extra crispy?
A4: For maximum crispiness:
1. Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
2. Shake the basket frequently (every 5 minutes or so).
3. Preheat your air fryer if your model recommends it.
4. Lightly mist with oil spray, even if the fries are pre-oiled.
5. Consider higher temperatures (e.g., 400°F) for the last few minutes.
Q5: Can I cook different types of frozen fries (waffle, curly, shoestring) in an air fryer?
A5: Absolutely! Air fryers are fantastic for all kinds of frozen fries. Shoestring fries will cook the fastest, while thicker cuts like steak fries or waffle fries will take longer. Adjust cooking times accordingly and always shake the basket often.
Q6: How do I clean my air fryer after making French fries?
A6: Most air fryer baskets and trays are non-stick and often dishwasher-safe. For everyday cleaning, let the basket cool, then wash with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. For tougher residue, you can soak it for a few minutes. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
Q7: My air-fried fries aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?
A7: The most common culprits are overcrowding the basket (which steams the fries instead of frying them) or not shaking them frequently enough. Ensure there’s good airflow around each fry. Also, make sure your air fryer is reaching the proper temperature.
The Final Word on French Fries
Finding the best air fryer for frozen French fries truly transforms your snack game. Whether you opt for a compact, dedicated air fryer or a versatile air fryer oven combo, the key is consistent airflow, adequate capacity, and easy-to-use controls. With any of the fantastic options on our list, you’re just minutes away from enjoying perfectly crispy, healthier frozen French fries that taste like they came straight from your favorite restaurant. Happy frying!