Craving that perfect, crispy French fry experience right from your air fryer? You’re not alone! Many of us are on the hunt for the secret to achieving deliciously golden fries at home. While often the quest for the best potato for fries air fryer starts with choosing the right raw potato, it’s also about the right products, tools, and techniques that make air frying a breeze.
Whether you prefer to make your fries from scratch, enjoy the convenience of perfectly pre-cut frozen options, or want to explore other potato-based air-fried delights, getting that restaurant-quality crisp without all the oil is the ultimate goal. In this guide, we’ll dive into some fantastic products that can help you achieve your air fryer fry dreams, from convenient pre-made options to essential kitchen tools and even a unique batter mix. Let’s get those baskets preheated!
1. Kettle Brand Potato Chips, Air Fried Himalayan Salt Kettle…
While not a raw potato for making fries, these Kettle Brand potato chips offer an interesting twist, showcasing what air-frying can do for potatoes. If you love a crunchy, savory snack with less fat, these chips are a fantastic example of a ready-to-eat air-fried potato product. They capture that distinctive kettle-cooked crunch with the health benefits of an air-fried finish, making them a satisfying alternative for potato lovers.
- Key Features:
- Himalayan salt chips: Simple ingredients – potatoes, oil, and Himalayan pink salt.
- Air fried potato chips: Kettle cooked and air-fried finished for incredible taste.
- Less fat: 30% less fat than regular Kettle Brand sea salt chips, offering a lighter option.
- Our natural promise: Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten Free.
- Authentic recipe: Crafted for a classic salted chip flavor.
- Shareable bag: 6.5-ounce bag, perfect for sharing or solo snacking.
- Pros:
- Healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chips.
- Simple, high-quality ingredients.
- Excellent crispy texture with great flavor.
- Convenient and ready-to-eat.
- Cons:
- Not a raw potato for making fries from scratch.
- Still a processed snack, even with less fat.
- User Impressions: Customers rave about the satisfying crunch and clean flavor profile. Many appreciate the “less fat” aspect without compromising on taste, making them a guilt-free indulgence. They’re praised for being a wholesome snack that still delivers on that classic potato chip satisfaction.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. Jesse & Ben’s Classic Sea Salt Fries, Made with Avocado…
When it comes to the best potato for fries air fryer experience with minimal effort, pre-made frozen fries are a game-changer. Jesse & Ben’s takes it a step further by focusing on pure, simple ingredients like potatoes, avocado oil, and sea salt. These fries are designed to give you that restaurant-quality crunch and bold flavor, all while being seed oil-free and suitable for various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free lifestyles. Just pop them in your air fryer for a quick, delicious side or snack.
- Key Features:
- Made with Only 3 Ingredients: Potatoes, avocado oil, and sea salt for pure, simple flavor.
- Seed Oil Free for a Healthier Choice: Uses avocado oil, offering a healthier fat alternative.
- Ideal for All Lifestyles: Vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, catering to diverse diets.
- Crispy, Restaurant Quality Fries: Perfect for air frying or oven-baking to achieve a satisfying crunch.
- Authentic Flavor You Can Trust: Delivers bold, satisfying taste with clean ingredients and crispy texture.
- Pros:
- Extremely convenient for quick meals.
- Healthier oil choice (avocado oil).
- Accommodates various dietary restrictions.
- Achieves excellent crispiness in an air fryer.
- Cons:
- More expensive than buying raw potatoes.
- Flavor is pre-set, less customizable than homemade.
- User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the impressive crispiness and superior taste compared to other frozen fries. The clean ingredient list and use of avocado oil are major selling points for health-conscious consumers, who feel they get a guilt-free treat.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. Alexia Sweet Potato Waffle Cut Fries Seasoned with Garlic,…
If your idea of the best potato for fries air fryer involves a touch of sweetness and unique seasoning, Alexia’s Sweet Potato Waffle Cut Fries are a must-try. These aren’t just any sweet potato fries; they’re perfectly crafted into a waffle shape for maximum crispiness and seasoned with a delightful blend of garlic, onion, and pepper. Made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients, they bring a gourmet touch to your air fryer meals with minimal effort, making them a quick and flavorful side dish for any occasion.
- Key Features:
- Includes one 20 oz. bag of seasoned sweet potato waffle cut fries.
- Chef-inspired: Crispy waffle cut shape with savory garlic, onion, and pepper seasoning.
- Quality ingredients: Made with high-quality and non-GMO ingredients.
- Quick and easy: Simple air fryer (or oven) instructions for fast preparation.
- Versatile: A delightful addition to any meal, offering unique texture and flavor.
- Pros:
- Unique waffle cut shape for extra crispiness.
- Delicious pre-seasoned flavor blend.
- Healthy and non-GMO sweet potato option.
- Very easy and quick to prepare in an air fryer.
- Cons:
- Sweet potatoes can be trickier to get super crispy than regular potatoes.
- Flavor profile might not appeal to everyone.
- User Impressions: Users love the unique waffle shape and the savory seasoning that elevates these sweet potato fries. They are frequently praised for their convenience and for being a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fries, especially when air-fried to a perfect crisp.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two: Perfectly…
While not a potato product itself, this cookbook is an indispensable tool for anyone trying to master the art of air frying, especially when aiming for the best potato for fries air fryer results from scratch. It provides a wealth of recipes and expert guidance to help you create perfectly portioned, delicious meals, including, presumably, various potato and fry recipes tailored for the air fryer. This book empowers you to go beyond pre-made options and unlock the full potential of your air fryer for healthier, homemade delights.
- Key Features:
- Perfectly portioned recipes for two, reducing waste and simplifying cooking.
- Wide range of air fryer recipes, from appetizers to main courses and sides.
- Practical tips and tricks for getting the most out of your air fryer.
- Focus on healthier cooking with less oil.
- Clear, easy-to-follow instructions for beginners and seasoned users.
- Pros:
- Teaches fundamental air frying techniques.
- Expands your air fryer recipe repertoire beyond fries.
- Ideal for small households or couples.
- Encourages healthy, homemade cooking.
- Cons:
- Requires active cooking and prep, unlike pre-made options.
- Not a food product itself.
- User Impressions: Air fryer enthusiasts find this cookbook invaluable for its practical, well-tested recipes and useful tips. Many appreciate the portion sizes for two, which helps reduce food waste and makes weeknight cooking easier. It’s often cited as a go-to resource for exploring diverse air fryer meals.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food French Fries French Fried…
For those who crave the classic straight-cut French fry that reminds them of their favorite fast-food joint, Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries are an excellent choice for your air fryer. Designed specifically for extra crispiness, these gluten-free fries deliver that satisfying crunch and classic potato flavor. They’re incredibly easy to prepare in an air fryer, making them a go-to for quick sides, burger nights, or anytime you want a dependable, crispy fry without the deep-frying mess.
- Key Features:
- One 26 oz bag of Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries.
- Easy side dish: Simple to prepare for any meal.
- Gluten-free: Suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Versatile cooking: Easily prepared in air fryer, oven, or deep fryer.
- Classic straight cut: Adds to crispness and perfect for dipping.
- Convenient storage: Sealed bag for freezer storage.
- Pros:
- Achieves significant crispiness in an air fryer.
- Classic, familiar French fry taste and texture.
- Convenient and quick to prepare.
- Gluten-free and Kosher certified.
- Cons:
- May contain seed oils (common in frozen fries).
- Less healthy than homemade fries from scratch.
- User Impressions: Consumers consistently praise these fries for living up to their “extra crispy” promise, especially when air-fried. They love the authentic fast-food taste and the convenience of having them ready in minutes. They are a staple for many families looking for a reliable and easy fry option.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. Flavor-Crisp All-Purpose Breading & Batter Mix for Chicken,…
If you’re making homemade fries or “Jojo” potato wedges and want to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor, Flavor-Crisp All-Purpose Breading & Batter Mix is your secret weapon. Uniquely labeled for air fryer use, this versatile mix helps you achieve a delicious, golden-brown crust on your potatoes without excessive oil. It’s not just for fries; this mix can elevate chicken, fish, and other vegetables, proving its value as an all-in-one solution for incredibly crispy, air-fried (or deep-fried) dishes, making it easier to create the best potato for fries air fryer experience.
- Key Features:
- Air Fryer Use: One of the few brands specifically labeled for air fryer use.
- Impress Your Taste Buds: Enhances flavor and creates a delicious crispy coating.
- Versatile: Can be used for chicken, fish, shrimp, vegetables, and Jojo potato wedges.
- Premium Packaging: Comes in a resealable bag for freshness and secure storage.
- Jojo Potato Wedges Origin: Accidentally originated the Jojo Potato Wedge using this seasoning in the 1960s.
- Pros:
- Ensures excellent crispiness in the air fryer.
- Adds savory flavor to potatoes and other foods.
- Highly versatile for various ingredients.
- Resealable packaging for convenience.
- Cons:
- Requires additional prep for coating potatoes.
- May contain ingredients some prefer to avoid (e.g., specific flours, seasonings).
- User Impressions: Fans of Flavor-Crisp swear by its ability to create incredibly crispy and flavorful fried foods, particularly enjoying how well it works in the air fryer. The historical connection to Jojo potato wedges adds a fun touch, and users appreciate its versatility across different proteins and vegetables.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. POP AirFry Mate, Commercial Grade Stainless Steel French…
For those committed to making the best potato for fries air fryer from scratch, the POP AirFry Mate French Fry Cutter is an essential tool. This commercial-grade stainless steel cutter makes preparing consistent, perfect fries effortless. With two interchangeable blades, you can easily cut uniform 1/2″ or 3/8″ thick fries, ensuring even cooking and maximum crispiness in your air fryer. It’s durable, easy to clean, and designed to streamline your fry prep, letting you enjoy homemade, perfectly sized fries without the hassle.
- Key Features:
- Multipurpose: Comes with two interchangeable blades (1/2″ thick or 3/8″ thin) for perfect fry cuts.
- Easy to Use: Heavy-duty pulldown lever and suction cup base for effortless, stable cutting.
- Compact, Durable, and Easy to Clean: Stainless steel, commercial-grade design; dishwasher safe.
- Perfect Cutter to Complement Any Fryer: Cuts fries at an ideal 3″ length for air fryers.
- Quality Backed by Guarantee: Lifetime warranty for customer satisfaction.
- Pros:
- Creates perfectly uniform fries for even air frying.
- Saves significant prep time compared to hand-cutting.
- Durable, commercial-grade construction.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
- Cons:
- Not recommended for dense sweet potatoes.
- Another kitchen gadget to store.
- User Impressions: Users love how easy and quick this cutter makes homemade fries, especially appreciating the consistent size it produces, which leads to evenly cooked, crispy results in the air fryer. The sturdy construction and suction base are frequently praised, making it a valuable investment for fry enthusiasts.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: What type of raw potato is best for air fryer fries?
A1: For homemade air fryer fries, Russet potatoes are generally considered the best potato for fries air fryer. Their high starch content and low moisture make them ideal for achieving a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, similar to traditional deep-fried French fries. Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well, offering a slightly creamier texture.
Q2: How do I get my air fryer fries extra crispy?
A2: Several tips help achieve extra crispiness:
1. Soak potatoes: If making from scratch, soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry.
2. Don’t overcrowd: Cook fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Use a little oil: A light toss with a high smoke point oil (like avocado or canola oil) helps with browning and crispiness.
4. Shake the basket: Shake the basket every 5-7 minutes during cooking for even crisping.
5. Preheat: Always preheat your air fryer for best results.
Q3: Can I put frozen fries directly into the air fryer?
A3: Yes, absolutely! Most frozen French fries are designed to be cooked directly from frozen in an air fryer. Follow the package instructions for temperature and cooking time, as these can vary by brand. Generally, they cook faster and get crispier in an air fryer than in a conventional oven.
Q4: Do I need to pre-soak sweet potatoes for air fryer fries?
A4: Unlike Russet potatoes, sweet potatoes don’t typically need pre-soaking. They have a lower starch content, and soaking can sometimes make them too soft. The key for sweet potato fries is to coat them lightly with oil and seasonings, then cook in a single layer until crispy.
Q5: How much oil should I use for air frying fries?
A5: You only need a small amount! For homemade fries, about 1-2 teaspoons of oil per pound of cut potatoes is usually sufficient. For frozen fries, they often come pre-coated, so you may not need any additional oil, or just a very light spray if you want extra crispiness.
Q6: What temperature and time are best for air frying fries?
A6: For most frozen French fries, 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 15-20 minutes is a good starting point, shaking the basket halfway through. For homemade fries, start around 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, checking and shaking frequently. Adjust based on your air fryer model and desired crispiness.
Q7: Can I air fry potato wedges or other potato shapes?
A7: Yes! Air fryers are fantastic for cooking various potato shapes like wedges, cubes, or even whole baby potatoes. Adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of the potato pieces, typically requiring a bit longer than standard fries. The principles of not overcrowding and shaking the basket still apply.
Ultimately, finding the best potato for fries air fryer experience might involve a combination of these fantastic products and a few simple techniques. Whether you choose the convenience of pre-made frozen options or embark on a homemade fry adventure, your air fryer is ready to deliver crispy, delicious results every time!