Love crispy, golden french fries but want to skip the deep-fried grease? Your air fryer is about to become your new best friend! Air frying has revolutionized how we enjoy our favorite fried foods, giving us that satisfying crunch with far less oil. But to truly nail those perfect air fryer fries, choosing the right “potatoes” – whether fresh or frozen – makes all the difference.
Gone are the days of soggy, sad fries from the oven. With an air fryer, you can achieve that sought-after “fast food” crispness right in your own kitchen. But what exactly are the best potatoes for air fryer french fries? It’s not just about the potato itself; it’s also about the cut, seasoning, and even the tools you use to prepare them. We’ve rounded up 10 top products that will help you achieve air-fried french fry perfection every single time. Get ready to elevate your snack game!
How We Picked Our Favorites
When searching for the best potatoes for air fryer french fries, we focused on several key factors: crispiness potential, flavor profile, ease of preparation, and versatility. Whether you prefer the convenience of frozen options or love to make your fries from scratch, our selection includes choices that cater to different preferences, ensuring you get that golden-brown, satisfying crunch you crave.
Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food French Fries French Fried…
If you’re chasing that classic drive-thru experience at home without the oil vat, these Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries are a fantastic contender. They’re designed to replicate the thin, super-crispy fries you get from your favorite burger joint, and the air fryer really brings out their best. They crisp up beautifully, offering a delightful texture that’s perfect for dipping.
Key Features:
– One 26 oz bag of Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries
– Gluten-free, classic straight cut shape
– Easily prepare in your air fryer, oven or deep fryer
– Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce
– Certified Kosher, SNAP & EBT eligible food item
Pros:
– Achieves excellent crispiness in an air fryer
– Convenient and easy to prepare
– Gluten-free option for those with dietary needs
– Versatile for various meals and dips
Cons:
– Some might find them a bit thin for a substantial fry
– Can get too crispy if overcooked
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise these fries for their ability to get incredibly crispy in the air fryer, often remarking on how they truly taste like fast-food fries. They’re a hit for quick weeknight sides or casual meals.
Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Seasoned Crinkles French Fries Fried…
For those who love a bit more surface area for seasoning and dip-catching, the Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Seasoned Crinkles are a superb choice. These crinkle-cut fries come pre-seasoned, saving you a step and adding an extra layer of flavor. The unique shape also helps them crisp up evenly in the air fryer, making them a delicious and convenient side dish for any meal.
Key Features:
– One 26 oz bag of Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Seasoned Crinkles
– Gluten-free seasoned crinkle fries
– Easily prepare in your air fryer, oven or deep fryer
– Classic crinkle cut shape for optimal crispness and dipping
– Certified Kosher, SNAP & EBT eligible food item
Pros:
– Pre-seasoned for added flavor and convenience
– Crinkle cut promotes extra crispiness and holds sauces well
– Gluten-free and easy to air fry
– Great for family meals and gatherings
Cons:
– Seasoning might not appeal to everyone’s taste
– Can clump together if not shaken frequently during cooking
User Impressions: Users rave about the convenience of these pre-seasoned crinkles, noting how well they crisp up and how flavorful they are right out of the air fryer. They’re a go-to for many who want a quick and tasty side.
Ore-Ida Crispy Crinkles French Fried Potatoes, 32 oz Bag
Sometimes, simplicity is key, and the Ore-Ida Crispy Crinkles offer just that. These unseasoned crinkle-cut fries provide a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Their classic shape ensures a good bite and plenty of nooks and crannies to capture your favorite sauces. They crisp up nicely in the air fryer, making them a versatile staple for any fry lover.
Key Features:
– One 32 oz bag of Ore-Ida Crispy Crinkles French Fried Potatoes
– Gluten-free French fries
– Easily prepare in your air fryer, oven or deep fryer
– Classic crinkle fries, perfect for dipping in ketchup
– Certified Kosher, SNAP & EBT eligible food item
Pros:
– Versatile, allowing for custom seasoning
– Crinkle cut provides excellent texture and crispiness
– Good value with a larger 32 oz bag
– Gluten-free and simple to prepare
Cons:
– Requires adding your own seasoning
– May need a bit longer to cook compared to thinner fries
User Impressions: These fries are praised for their consistent crispiness and adaptability. Many users appreciate the larger bag size and the ability to season them precisely to their liking, making them a flexible option for various meals.
Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries, 28 oz (Frozen)
For a unique flavor profile that stands out from the crowd, Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries are an excellent pick for your air fryer. These aren’t just any fries; they bring that distinctive, heavily seasoned taste straight from the restaurant chain to your home. They crisp up remarkably well in an air fryer, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional frozen fries.
Key Features:
– Frozen, 28 oz bag of Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries
– Distinctive restaurant-style seasoning
– Perfect for air frying to achieve maximum crispness
Pros:
– Unique and bold seasoning flavor
– Achieves great crispness in an air fryer
– Convenient frozen option
– A treat for fans of the Checkers/Rally’s brand
Cons:
– Seasoning might be too strong for some tastes
– Less versatile for custom seasoning
User Impressions: Fans of Checkers and Rally’s absolutely love these for their authentic taste and how well they air fry. They’re often described as a convenient way to enjoy restaurant-quality fries at home.
Ore-Ida Classic Thick Cut Steak French Fries French Fried…
If you’re a fan of a more substantial fry, the Ore-Ida Classic Thick Cut Steak French Fries are your go-to. These hearty fries offer a fluffy interior and a satisfyingly crisp exterior when air-fried. Their robust size makes them ideal for dipping in thick sauces or enjoying alongside a juicy steak (hence the name!). They’re a classic choice for anyone seeking a fuller potato experience.
Key Features:
– One 28 oz bag of Ore-Ida Classic Steak Fries
– Gluten-free, classic thick-cut shape
– Easily prepare in your air fryer, oven or deep fryer
– Perfect for dipping in ketchup
– Certified Kosher, SNAP & EBT eligible food item
Pros:
– Hearty and satisfying thick cut
– Fluffy interior with a crispy exterior when air-fried
– Great for substantial meals or heavy dips
– Gluten-free and convenient
Cons:
– Takes longer to cook due to thickness
– May not get as uniformly crispy as thinner fries
User Impressions: Users appreciate the “meaty” texture and fluffy inside of these steak fries when prepared in the air fryer. They’re a favorite for those who prefer a less delicate fry that can stand up to a hearty meal.
POP AirFry Mate, Commercial Grade Stainless Steel French…
While not a potato itself, the POP AirFry Mate is an indispensable tool for anyone serious about making the best potatoes for air fryer french fries from scratch. This commercial-grade cutter allows you to effortlessly transform raw potatoes into perfectly uniform fries, ensuring even cooking and consistent crispiness in your air fryer. It’s a game-changer for homemade fry enthusiasts.
Key Features:
– Multipurpose: two interchangeable blades (1/2″ thick or 3/8″ thin)
– Easy to use with heavy-duty pulldown lever and suction cup base
– Compact, durable, and easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
– Perfect cutter to complement any fryer, cuts 3″ long pieces
– Quality backed by a lifetime guarantee
Pros:
– Creates uniform fries for even air frying
– Durable, commercial-grade stainless steel construction
– Comes with two blade sizes for different fry preferences
– Easy to clean and store
– Excellent for making fresh, homemade air fryer fries
Cons:
– Not recommended for sweet potatoes
– Requires manual effort to cut
User Impressions: Users rave about the efficiency and sturdy build of this cutter, noting how it simplifies the process of making homemade fries. It’s often praised for creating restaurant-quality cuts that air fry beautifully.
365 by Whole Foods Market, Crinkle Cut Sweet Potato…
Venturing beyond traditional potatoes, these 365 by Whole Foods Market Crinkle Cut Sweet Potato Fries offer a delicious and slightly healthier twist. Sweet potato fries are notoriously tricky to get crispy, but the crinkle cut and the air fryer work together to achieve a fantastic texture. They provide a naturally sweeter flavor profile and a vibrant color, making them a great alternative.
Key Features:
– Crinkle cut sweet potato fries
– Part of the 365 by Whole Foods Market range, meeting rigorous quality standards
– Premium ingredients, free from over 100 prohibited ingredients
– An Amazon brand
Pros:
– Delicious, naturally sweet flavor
– Crinkle cut helps achieve crispiness in the air fryer
– Healthier alternative to regular fries
– High-quality ingredients from a trusted brand
Cons:
– Can be more prone to burning due to sugar content
– May not appeal to those who prefer savory fries
User Impressions: Customers love the sweet and savory balance of these fries, especially when air-fried. They appreciate the quality ingredients and find them to be a consistently satisfying snack or side.
365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Shoestring French Fries…
If you’re looking for an organic option that still delivers on crispiness, the 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Shoestring French Fries are an excellent choice. These thin, delicate fries cook up quickly in the air fryer, achieving a delicate crunch. They’re perfect for those who enjoy a lighter fry that pairs well with just about anything.
Key Features:
– Organic shoestring french fries
– Part of the 365 by Whole Foods Market range, meeting rigorous quality standards
– Premium ingredients, free from over 100 prohibited ingredients
– An Amazon brand
Pros:
– Organic option for health-conscious consumers
– Thin cut cooks quickly and gets very crispy
– Versatile and light, great for pairing with various meals
– High-quality ingredients from a trusted brand
Cons:
– Can be fragile and break easily
– May not be as filling as thicker cut fries
User Impressions: Users consistently praise these organic shoestring fries for their excellent flavor and the perfect crispness they achieve in an air fryer. They’re a popular choice for families and those seeking quality organic options.
Ore-Ida Crispy Straight-Cut Fries French Fried Potatoes, 32…
For many, the straight-cut fry is the quintessential french fry, and the Ore-Ida Crispy Straight-Cut Fries do not disappoint. This 32 oz bag provides a generous amount of classic, unseasoned fries that crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. They’re reliable, versatile, and a staple for any home cook looking to achieve perfect golden-brown results without the fuss.
Key Features:
– One 32 oz bag of Ore-Ida Crispy Straight-Cut Fries French Fried Potatoes
– Gluten-free, classic straight cut shape
– Easily prepare in your air fryer, oven or deep fryer
– Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce
– Certified Kosher, SNAP & EBT eligible food item
Pros:
– Classic straight cut, universally loved
– Great for custom seasoning and dipping
– Large 32 oz bag offers good value
– Consistently crispy when air-fried
– Gluten-free and convenient
Cons:
– Requires seasoning to taste
– Can clump in the air fryer if overloaded
User Impressions: These Ore-Ida straight-cut fries are a crowd-pleaser, often cited for their consistent quality and reliable crispiness in the air fryer. They’re a freezer staple for many who appreciate their simple versatility.
The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two: Perfectly…
While not a direct “potato” product, “The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two” is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to master making the best potatoes for air fryer french fries (and many other dishes!) from scratch. This cookbook provides tailored recipes and tips to ensure perfect results, especially for smaller portions. It’s an excellent companion for maximizing your air fryer’s potential for crispy, delicious meals.
Key Features:
– Cookbook specifically designed for air fryer recipes for two
– Focuses on perfect results and tailored portions
– Includes recipes for a wide variety of air fryer dishes, including fries
– Provides tips and tricks for optimal air frying
Pros:
– Teaches you how to make perfect homemade air fryer fries
– Ideal for couples or smaller households
– Expands your air fryer culinary repertoire beyond just fries
– Offers expert tips for best air frying practices
Cons:
– Requires purchasing raw ingredients
– Not a pre-made product, requires effort
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise this cookbook for its clear instructions, delicious recipes, and precise portioning. It’s a popular choice for those new to air frying or looking to expand their skills.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in Air Fryer Fries
When choosing the best options for your air fryer french fries, consider these points:
- Cut Style: Thin shoestring and crinkle-cut fries tend to get crispier faster due to more surface area. Thicker cuts like steak fries will have a fluffier interior but may take longer to crisp up.
- Seasoning: Pre-seasoned fries offer convenience, but unseasoned options give you full control over flavor.
- Ingredients: Check for gluten-free options or specific dietary needs. Brands like Whole Foods Market also offer organic choices.
- Bag Size: Consider how much you eat and how often to choose a bag size that makes sense for your household.
- Crispiness Potential: Look for words like “extra crispy” or “fast food style” if a super-crisp texture is your priority.
Tips for Air Frying Perfect Fries
No matter which of the best potatoes for air fryer french fries you choose, these tips will help you get crispy, golden results:
- Don’t Overcrowd: This is crucial! Fry baskets need air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, a preheated air fryer helps food cook more evenly and get crispier.
- A Little Oil Helps: Even with frozen fries, a light spray of cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil) can significantly improve crispiness. For homemade fries, pat them dry before tossing with oil.
- Shake, Shake, Shake: Tossing or shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes ensures all sides get exposed to the hot air.
- Cook to Desired Crispness: Air fryers cook quickly. Keep an eye on your fries, especially towards the end, and cook until they reach your preferred level of golden brown and crispiness.
- Season After Cooking: For optimal flavor, add salt and other seasonings immediately after the fries come out of the air fryer.
Conclusion
Achieving delicious, crispy french fries in your air fryer is totally within reach! Whether you opt for the convenience of pre-seasoned crinkle cuts, the classic straight-cut potato, or prefer to make them from scratch with a handy fry cutter, the options are plentiful. The key is to choose high-quality products, avoid overcrowding your air fryer, and give them a good shake during cooking. Experiment with these top picks and tips, and you’ll be enjoying the best potatoes for air fryer french fries in no time!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make fresh french fries in my air fryer, or should I stick to frozen?
A1: You can absolutely make fresh french fries in your air fryer! Many people prefer them for the customizable flavor and texture. Just be sure to cut them uniformly (a fry cutter helps!), soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, pat them very dry, and toss lightly with oil before air frying for the best results.
Q2: How long does it typically take to air fry frozen french fries?
A2: Cooking times vary depending on your air fryer model, the thickness of the fries, and how crispy you like them. Generally, most frozen french fries will take between 12-20 minutes at 375-400°F (190-200°C). Always check package instructions and shake the basket frequently.
Q3: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for french fries?
A3: While some air fryer models claim preheating isn’t necessary, it’s highly recommended for french fries. Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature from the start, leading to more even cooking and better crisping.
Q4: My air fryer fries aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?
A4: The most common reasons for non-crispy fries are overcrowding the basket, not shaking them enough, or insufficient cooking time. Make sure you’re cooking in a single layer (or small batches), shaking every 5-7 minutes, and ensuring the fries are golden brown before removing them. A light spray of oil can also help.
Q5: What’s the best way to season air fryer french fries?
A5: For store-bought frozen fries, you can add extra seasoning before or after cooking. For homemade fries, toss with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika before air frying. Always season immediately after they come out of the air fryer for the best adhesion and flavor.
Q6: Can I cook sweet potato fries in an air fryer?
A6: Yes! Sweet potato fries cook beautifully in an air fryer, often achieving a better crisp than in a traditional oven. Keep an eye on them as their natural sugars can make them prone to burning faster than regular potatoes.
Q7: How do I store leftover air-fried french fries? Can I reheat them in the air fryer?
A7: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350-375°F (175-190°C) for 3-6 minutes, shaking occasionally, until they are hot and crispy again. This method beats microwave reheating by a mile!