Are you on a quest for perfectly golden, crispy french fries without the greasy mess of deep frying? If you’re wondering what the best french fry brand for air fryer cooking is, you’re actually asking the right question, but perhaps focusing on the wrong “brand”! It’s not just about the frozen fries you pick up at the grocery store; it’s predominantly about the appliance that transforms them. A truly great air fryer can turn even humble store-bought fries into a gourmet experience.
Air frying has become a game-changer for snack lovers and health-conscious cooks alike. It uses superheated air to circulate around your food, giving it that irresistible crispy texture with significantly less oil than traditional frying. This means you can indulge in your favorite golden sticks with a lot less guilt! So, instead of searching for a specific pre-made fry brand, let’s explore the best air fryers that excel at turning out perfectly crispy french fries, no matter their origin. Get ready to elevate your fry game!
1. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a versatile multi-cooker designed to elevate nearly any meal, including your beloved french fries. The Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer brings restaurant-quality crisping right to your countertop with its 360º superheated air circulation. Its elegant design and expansive capacity make it a standout for families or anyone who loves to entertain, ensuring your fries come out golden and delicious every time.
Key Features:
– A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal.
– PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Automatic shut-off and indicator light for ideal results.
– 25 COOKING PRE-SETS: Wide variety of cooking methods from ribs to pizza.
– DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping with 360º superheated air circulation.
– 26-QUART CAPACITY: Suitable for 4–6 people, fits a 6-lb chicken or 12” pizza.
– STAINLESS STEEL EXTERIOR: Beautiful aesthetic with elegant French doors and interior light.
Pros:
– Highly versatile with numerous cooking functions.
– Large capacity is excellent for family meals and gatherings.
– French doors and stainless steel design add a premium look.
– Specific toast function is a convenient bonus.
Cons:
– Takes up considerable counter space due to its size.
– Some users might find the large number of presets overwhelming initially.
User Impressions: Customers love the multi-functionality and the ample cooking space. Many note how efficiently it air fries, delivering genuinely crispy results, which is key for excellent french fries. The ease of monitoring food through the French doors is also a frequently praised feature.
2. Midea Flexify French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo
The Midea Flexify offers an impressive blend of speed, efficiency, and versatility, making it a strong contender for the best french fry brand for air fryer performance. Its Cyclone Air Fryer technology promises 25% faster cooking with 90% less oil, delivering those perfectly crisp fries without the long wait. With its elegant French doors and precise controls, it’s a stylish and practical addition to any modern kitchen.
Key Features:
– Cyclone Air Fryer: 25% faster cooking, 90% less oil, VDE-certified heat evenness.
– Versatile 10 Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Toast, Pizza, Reheat, Slow Cook, Dehydrate, Warm.
– Large Capacity: 26.4 QT, fits 12-inch pizza, 6 slices of toast, or 14 chicken wings.
– Precise Temperature and Time Control: 5-degree F and one-minute increments (100°-450°F).
– Elegant design: Anti-scald double French doors and large LED digital display.
– Includes crumb tray, air fry basket, baking rack, and baking tray.
Pros:
– Excellent air frying performance with fast cooking times.
– Wide range of functions for diverse cooking needs.
– Large capacity is ideal for families.
– Precise controls allow for fine-tuning of recipes.
Cons:
– May require some learning to master all 10 functions.
– Like other large combo units, it will occupy significant counter space.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend its ability to cook quickly and evenly, particularly for crispy items like fries. The aesthetic appeal of the French doors and the clear digital display also receive high marks for user-friendliness and kitchen integration.
3. Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360 Air Fryer Oven Combo with French Door
For those who crave ultimate convenience and culinary precision, the Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360 is a standout. This air fryer double door oven boasts a unique dual-zone mastery, allowing you to cook your main dish and sides simultaneously at different temperatures. This means your perfectly crisp french fries can finish cooking exactly when your burger or steak is ready, thanks to its QuickSync Technology. It truly redefines what the best french fry brand for air fryer cooking means by optimizing the process.
Key Features:
– ALL-IN-ONE COOKING: Blends 10 kitchen tools into one French door air fryer toaster oven combo.
– DUAL-ZONE MASTERY: Two temperature zones for simultaneous, precise cooking.
– PERFECTLY SYNCED MEALS: QuickSync Technology matches cooking times across zones.
– GENEROUS COOKING SPACE: XL 25-Qt. capacity, removable dividers, up to 60% faster cooking.
– FROZEN TO FABULOUS: Turns frozen items into tantalizing meals in minutes, no thawing needed.
Pros:
– Dual-zone cooking offers incredible flexibility and efficiency.
– QuickSync technology ensures entire meals are ready at once.
– Large capacity is suitable for big families or entertaining.
– Excellent for cooking frozen foods quickly and effectively.
Cons:
– Advanced features might have a steeper learning curve for some users.
– Premium features come with a higher price point.
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the dual-zone functionality, highlighting how it streamlines meal preparation. Its speed in cooking frozen items, especially for making crispy fries from the freezer, is a major plus for busy households.
4. Oster Extra-Large French Door Air Fryer Countertop Oven
The Oster Extra-Large French Door Air Fryer is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for an ultra-spacious and elegant appliance that delivers healthy, crispy results. Its beautiful French doors not only look great but also provide convenient access to your food. With its ability to use 99.5% less oil than traditional deep fryers, you can enjoy delicious, guilt-free french fries that are perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Key Features:
– Elegant Design: Features beautiful French doors for convenient access.
– Ultra-Spacious: Accommodates 15 x 12 baking pans or 2 large pizzas.
– Diverse Settings: Comes with 6 cooking presets for versatile meal options.
– Healthier Cooking: Uses 99.5% less oil compared to deep fryers.
– Programmable Timer: 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff for safe cooking.
– User-friendly Controls: Separate cooking function, time, and temperature controls.
– Practical Accessories: Includes air fry rack, wire/broil rack, baking pan, and crumb tray.
Pros:
– Exceptionally large capacity for big families or meal prepping.
– Stylish French door design enhances kitchen aesthetics.
– User-friendly controls make operation simple.
– Healthier cooking option for beloved fried foods.
Cons:
– Fewer specific pre-sets compared to some other combo ovens.
– May take up significant counter space.
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its vast interior space, which is perfect for cooking large batches of fries or multiple items at once. The ease of use and the effectiveness of the air fry function for getting that desired crispiness are commonly highlighted benefits.
5. Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size
If you’re looking for a dedicated air fryer that truly focuses on getting your food crispy and healthy, the Chefman TurboFry® Touch is an excellent choice. This 8-quart model is perfectly sized for families and shines when it comes to air frying. Its one-touch presets and unique LED shake reminder ensure your french fries are evenly cooked and achieve that perfect crunch, making it a top contender for the best french fry brand for air fryer results when focusing purely on the air frying function.
Key Features:
– CRISPY & HEALTHY: Relish crispy delights with 98% less oil.
– ONE-TOUCH MAGIC: Large Air Fryer Presets for fries, chicken, fish, and meat.
– LED SHAKE REMINDER: Ensures even crispiness by reminding you to shake food.
– PRECISE TEMPERATURES: XL Range from 200-400°F caters to every dish.
– EFFORTLESS CLEANING: Dishwasher-safe basket and tray, easy-to-wipe exterior.
– INTELLIGENT SHUTOFF: Pauses heating when opened, resumes when closed; auto-shuts off post-cooking.
– FAMILY-SIZED QUICK COOKING: Designed for 4-6 people, gets dinner ready swiftly.
– SLEEK & SPACIOUS DESIGN: Elegant yet space-efficient.
– TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety tech, 1-year assurance.
Pros:
– Delivers exceptionally crispy results with minimal oil.
– Dedicated presets and shake reminder optimize cooking.
– Very easy to clean due to dishwasher-safe components.
– Family-sized capacity is great for everyday use.
Cons:
– Lacks the multi-oven functions of the combo units.
– Some users might prefer physical dials over a touch interface.
User Impressions: This air fryer consistently receives rave reviews for its performance, especially for fries and other crispy snacks. Users appreciate the shake reminder for perfectly even cooking and the sheer ease of cleaning. It’s often called a “must-have” for air frying enthusiasts.
6. Air Fryer Paper Liners for Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360
While not an air fryer appliance itself, these Air Fryer Paper Liners are an essential accessory that significantly enhances your air frying experience, especially when making french fries! Designed for specific models like the Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360, these pre-cut parchment paper sheets make clean-up a breeze. They prevent food from sticking to your basket and minimize mess, allowing you to enjoy your crispy fries without the fuss of scrubbing.
Key Features:
– Accurate Compatibility: Specifically designed for Emeril Lagasse Dual Zone 360 Air Fryer Oven Combo.
– Non-Stick & Heat Resistant: Premium, food-grade material prevents sticking, withstands up to 430°F (220°C).
– Keep Your Air Fryer Clean: Easily remove food without scraping stuck-on residue.
– Multi-Purpose: Ideal for baking, roasting, grilling, and lining for fries or sandwiches.
– Usage Tips: Avoid use in preheating mode; always place paper underneath food.
Pros:
– Drastically simplifies cleaning after cooking.
– Prevents food from sticking, ensuring perfectly intact fries.
– Pre-cut for convenience, saving time and effort.
– Versatile for many air fryer applications beyond fries.
Cons:
– An additional ongoing cost.
– Must be used correctly (under food, not in preheating) to avoid issues.
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience these liners offer, praising how they make cleanup incredibly fast and easy. Many consider them a “game-changer” for air fryer owners, especially for messy foods like seasoned fries or saucy chicken wings.
7. Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo 17 cooking presets
The Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo is a true culinary marvel, packing 17 cooking presets into a compact, stylish design. With its powerful 1700-watt heating and single-pull auto French doors, it’s engineered for quick cooking and convenience. Whether you’re air frying a batch of french fries to crispy perfection or baking a pizza, this appliance delivers consistent results and makes a strong case for being among the best french fry brand for air fryer cooking when space-saving and versatility are key.
Key Features:
– 17-MODE, QUICK COOKING OVEN: Toast, Bake, Dehydrate, Air Fry, & More with 17 preset options.
– HIGH PERFORMANCE, COMPACT SPACE: Powerful 1700 Watt, single Pull Auto French Doors.
– Large Enough To Fit A 12” Pizza Or Up To 6 Slices Of Bread.
– CUSTOM TIME, MODE, & TEMPERATURE: Simple touch control panel for precise settings.
– 360° Air Flow: Ensures high-quality, even cooking every time.
– EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO EAT GOURMET: Includes Fry Basket, Oven Rack, Baking Pan, & Crumb Tray.
– GREAT FOR MICRO LIVING SPACES: Ideal for lofts, apartments, RVs, etc.
Pros:
– Extremely versatile with 17 cooking functions.
– Compact design yet still offers ample capacity.
– Single-pull French doors are convenient and stylish.
– Ensures even cooking with 360° air flow.
Cons:
– The multitude of presets might take time to get familiar with.
– The fan can be a bit noisy during operation for some users.
User Impressions: Users frequently commend its versatility and how well it fits into smaller kitchens without sacrificing performance. The air fry function for fries and other crispy snacks is consistently praised for its effectiveness and speed.
8. Kalorik MAXX Air Fryer Oven, 26 Quart 10-in-1 Countertop
The Kalorik MAXX Air Fryer Oven is a powerhouse designed for speed and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for whipping up batches of deliciously crispy french fries in record time. Boasting a 10-in-1 functionality and an impressive 21 smart presets, this appliance is a master of versatility. Its Turbo MAXX Technology cooks fries up to 22% faster and can save significant energy compared to traditional ovens, truly showcasing what the best french fry brand for air fryer performance can achieve.
Key Features:
– COOK MEALS FASTER WHILE SAVING ENERGY: Ultra-fast cooking with Turbo MAXX Technology.
– ONE APPLIANCE TO REPLACE THE REST: 10-in-1 functions (air fry, bake, toast, roast, rotisserie, etc.).
– CHOOSE FROM 21 SMART PRESETS: Intuitive digital interface for perfect results every time.
– PREPARE FAMILY-SIZED MEALS: Extra-large 26-quart capacity, fits 14-pound turkey or 12-inch pizza.
– ENJOY 9 DO-IT-ALL ACCESSORIES: Versatile collection including air frying basket, baking tray, rotisserie spit.
Pros:
– Exceptional cooking speed and energy efficiency.
– Highly versatile with 10 functions and 21 presets.
– Large capacity perfect for families or entertaining.
– Comes with a comprehensive set of accessories.
Cons:
– Its large size requires significant counter space.
– Some users might find the wide array of presets overwhelming initially.
User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed by the speed and power of the Kalorik MAXX, often noting how quickly it cooks fries and other items to crispy perfection. The vast array of functions and the spacious interior are also frequently highlighted as major benefits.
9. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
For a dedicated air fryer that truly nails crispiness with minimal oil, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 is a fantastic contender. Its Air Crisp Technology surrounds food with 400℉ superheated air, ensuring your french fries come out hot, crispy, and with up to 75% less fat than traditional methods. The 5-quart capacity is generous for family meals, making it easy to turn frozen fries into an extra-crispy delight in minutes.
Key Features:
– AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
– LARGE CAPACITY: 5-QT nonstick basket fits up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
– 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
– GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods.
– FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods in just minutes for an extra-crispy finish.
– SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest air fryer design saves countertop space.
– EASY TO CLEAN: Nonstick basket and crisper plate are easy to clean.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, chef-inspired 20 recipe book.
Pros:
– Delivers exceptionally crispy results for fries and other foods.
– Generous 5-quart capacity for family-sized portions.
– Very efficient at cooking frozen foods.
– Compact design saves countertop space.
– Easy to clean with nonstick, removable parts.
Cons:
– Limited to air frying, roasting, reheating, and dehydrating; no baking or toasting function.
– Some users might prefer a digital display over physical buttons.
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise this Ninja air fryer for its ability to produce incredibly crispy fries with minimal effort. Its compact size despite the large capacity is a frequently mentioned benefit, along with the ease of cleaning.
10. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Dehydrate
The Ninja Air Fryer offers a great balance of essential functions and performance for everyday use, making it another strong contender for crafting the perfect crispy french fries. With up to 75% less fat than traditional frying, you can indulge guilt-free. Its 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket is family-sized, comfortably fitting 2 lbs of french fries, and its wide temperature range allows for everything from gently dehydrating snacks to quickly crisping your favorite fried foods.
Key Features:
– LESS FAT: Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.
– WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F for versatile cooking.
– FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket fits 2 lbs of French fries.
– 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Includes Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate programs.
– DEHYDRATE: Create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods with low fan speed and temperature.
– EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher safe parts including the basket and crisper plate.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 4 Quart Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate, and 20 Recipe Booklet.
Pros:
– Produces significantly healthier versions of fried foods.
– Versatile temperature range for various cooking tasks.
– Good capacity for small to medium families.
– Extremely easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
– Slightly smaller capacity than the Pro model (4QT vs 5QT).
– No baking or broiling functions for more advanced cooking.
User Impressions: Customers love the simplicity and effectiveness of this Ninja air fryer. It’s highly rated for its ability to deliver perfectly crispy fries and for how easy it is to clean afterward, making it a staple in many kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What kind of french fries are best for an air fryer – frozen or fresh?
A1: Both frozen and fresh-cut fries work wonderfully in an air fryer! Frozen fries are often pre-blanched and sometimes lightly oiled, which helps them crisp up quickly and evenly. Fresh-cut fries require a bit more preparation (soaking, drying, and a light toss with oil) but offer a fresher taste. Ultimately, the best french fry brand for air fryer results will depend on your preference for convenience versus homemade taste.
Q2: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for french fries?
A2: Yes, preheating your air fryer is highly recommended for best french fry brand for air fryer outcomes. Just like a conventional oven, preheating ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature from the start, leading to more even cooking and that desired crispy exterior. Most air fryers preheat in about 3-5 minutes.
Q3: How long do french fries take in an air fryer?
A3: Cooking times vary based on the thickness of your fries and your air fryer model, but generally, frozen french fries take about 15-25 minutes at 375-400°F (190-200°C). Fresh-cut fries might take a bit longer, around 20-30 minutes. Remember to shake the basket every 5-7 minutes for even crisping!
Q4: Should I use oil for air fryer fries?
A4: For frozen french fries, you typically don’t need much, if any, additional oil as they are often pre-oiled. For fresh-cut fries, a light toss with just 1-2 teaspoons of high-smoke point oil (like avocado, grapeseed, or vegetable oil) is recommended to help them crisp up beautifully. The air fryer significantly reduces the need for large amounts of oil.
Q5: How do I get my air fryer fries extra crispy?
A5: For extra crispy fries, ensure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, allowing enough space for the hot air to circulate. Shake the basket frequently (every 5-7 minutes), and if using fresh fries, make sure they are very dry before tossing with oil. You can also lightly spray them with oil during the last few minutes of cooking for added crispness.
Q6: Can I put parchment paper in an air fryer, and does it help with fries?
A6: Yes, you can use parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers (like the ones reviewed above!). They are a great way to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking. Make sure the paper is weighted down by food and doesn’t touch the heating element during preheating to avoid any fire hazards. Using them helps keep the basket clean, which is a big plus when cooking greasy foods like fries.
Q7: How do I clean my air fryer after making french fries?
A7: Cleaning is a breeze with most modern air fryers. Many models, like the Ninja and Chefman, come with non-stick, dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates. For other parts, simply wipe down the interior with a damp cloth after it has cooled. Using air fryer liners (as mentioned in Q6) can significantly reduce the amount of mess, making cleanup even faster!
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best french fry brand for air fryer results, the real secret isn’t a specific brand of frozen fries, but rather the quality and features of your air fryer appliance. The right air fryer can transform any potato into a golden, crispy delight with minimal oil and effort.
Whether you opt for a versatile French door air fryer oven combo or a dedicated air fryer, each of the products reviewed above offers unique features to help you achieve perfectly crispy french fries every single time. Consider your cooking needs, kitchen space, and desired features to pick the perfect air fryer that will become your go-to appliance for healthier, delicious fries. Happy air frying!