Ever dreamt of biting into perfectly crispy, golden-brown fries without all the oil and fuss of deep frying? Well, your air fryer is here to make that dream a delicious reality! But here’s a little secret: not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to achieving that ideal crunch and fluffy interior. Choosing the best potatoes for fries in air fryer can truly elevate your snack game.
Whether you’re craving classic Russet cuts or a sweeter alternative, the right potato variety and preparation can make all the difference. We’ve dug into the best frozen options out there, perfect for tossing straight into your air fryer for a quick, healthier, and unbelievably tasty side. Let’s get cooking!
Why an Air Fryer for Fries?
Air fryers circulate hot air around your food, mimicking the effects of deep frying with just a fraction of the oil. This means you get that desirable crispy texture and rich flavor, but with fewer calories and less mess. It’s a win-win, especially for those who love their fries but want to keep things on the lighter side.
Top 5 Best Potatoes for Fries in Air Fryer
Here are our top picks for pre-cut, frozen fries that truly shine in an air fryer:
Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Shoestring Fries, 28 Oz
If you’re a fan of super thin, extra-crispy fries, these shoestring beauties from Grown in Idaho are a fantastic choice for your air fryer. Made from 100% real Idaho potatoes, they’re designed to deliver an intense crunch with every bite, making them a go-to for many air fryer enthusiasts seeking that delicate, golden-brown perfection.
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Key Features:
- Includes one 28 oz. bag of Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Shoestring Fries
- Made from 100% real Idaho potatoes with 0g Trans Fats per Serving
- Super crispy, skin-on, golden brown, thin-cut shoestring fries
- Crispy on the outside, fluffy, soft-baked texture inside, loaded with real potato flavor
- Quick and easy to make; simply heat oven to 420°F and bake for 18-20 minutes
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Pros:
- Achieve exceptional crispiness due to their thin cut
- Quick cooking time, perfect for a fast snack
- Authentic potato flavor
- Convenient and easy to prepare in an air fryer
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Cons:
- May be too thin for those who prefer a meatier fry
- Only available as a frozen product
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User Impressions: Many users rave about how these fries get incredibly crispy in the air fryer, often comparing them favorably to fast-food fries. They appreciate the minimal oil needed and the quick turnaround time for a delicious snack.
See it on Amazon here
Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries, 28 oz (Frozen)
For those who prefer a more substantial, rustic fry that still delivers big on crunch, the Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries are an excellent contender for the best potatoes for fries in air fryer. Their thicker, irregular cuts give them a homemade feel, ensuring a satisfyingly fluffy interior while still achieving that coveted golden crispness on the outside.
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Key Features:
- Includes one 28 oz. bag of Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries
- Made from 100% real Idaho potatoes with 0g Trans Fats per Serving
- Super crispy, skin-on, golden brown, home style-cut fries
- Crispy on the outside, fluffy, soft-baked texture inside, loaded with real potato flavor
- Quick and easy to make; simply heat oven to 420°F and bake for 23-25 minutes
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Pros:
- Heartier, “steak-fry” like texture
- Achieve a great crispy exterior with a soft, potatoey interior
- Ideal for dipping in your favorite sauces
- Convenient frozen format
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Cons:
- Slightly longer cooking time compared to shoestring cuts
- Some pieces might cook unevenly if not shaken well
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User Impressions: Customers love the authentic “hand-cut” feel and the way these fries crisp up beautifully in the air fryer without being greasy. They are often praised for their robust potato flavor and satisfying chew.
See it on Amazon here
Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries, 28 oz
The ridges of crinkle-cut fries aren’t just for show – they’re a genius design for maximizing crispiness and holding onto delicious condiments! Grown in Idaho’s Super Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries bring all that to the table, making them a fantastic choice when considering the best potatoes for fries in air fryer. They offer a delightful textural contrast that’s hard to beat.
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Key Features:
- Includes one 28 oz. bag of Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries
- Made from 100% real Idaho potatoes with 0g Trans Fats per Serving
- Super crispy, skin-on, golden brown, crinkle-cut fries
- Crispy on the outside, fluffy, soft-baked texture inside, loaded with real potato flavor
- Quick and easy to make; simply heat oven to 420° F and bake for 18-20 minutes
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Pros:
- Ridged surface creates extra crispiness and holds sauce well
- Good balance of crispy exterior and soft interior
- Enjoyable for both kids and adults
- Convenient and quick to prepare
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Cons:
- Can sometimes stick together if the air fryer basket is overloaded
- Texture might not appeal to everyone
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently highlight the excellent crunch these crinkle cuts achieve in the air fryer and how well they stand up to dipping. They appreciate the classic potato flavor and consistent results.
See it on Amazon here
365 by Whole Foods Market, Crinkle Cut Sweet Potato…
If you’re looking to branch out from traditional potato fries, 365 by Whole Foods Market offers a delicious Crinkle Cut Sweet Potato option. These fries bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to your plate, along with the convenience of a frozen, ready-to-air-fry product. They’re a fantastic, often healthier, alternative that crisps up beautifully, offering a unique twist on your fry routine.
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Key Features:
- Crinkle-cut sweet potato fries for maximum crispiness
- Made with premium ingredients, adhering to Whole Foods Market’s rigorous quality standards
- Free from over 100 prohibited ingredients found in many processed foods
- An Amazon brand, offering trusted quality
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Pros:
- Healthier alternative to regular potato fries
- Unique sweet and savory flavor profile
- Crinkle-cut design enhances crispiness
- Backed by Whole Foods Market’s quality assurance
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Cons:
- Sweet potato flavor isn’t for everyone
- May not get as uniformly crispy as some regular potato fries
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User Impressions: Customers love the natural sweetness and the surprisingly good crispness these sweet potato fries achieve in the air fryer. They appreciate the quality ingredients and consider them a tasty and slightly more nutritious snack.
See it on Amazon here
Alexia Sweet Potato Fries with Sea Salt, 15 Ounce
Alexia is well-known for its gourmet frozen sides, and their Sweet Potato Fries with Sea Salt are no exception. These are a superb choice if you’re exploring the best potatoes for fries in air fryer beyond the typical Russet. The touch of sea salt perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potato, creating a balanced and addictive fry experience that’s easy to achieve in your air fryer.
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Key Features:
- Made with high-quality sweet potatoes
- Seasoned with natural sea salt for enhanced flavor
- Designed to achieve a satisfying crispiness
- Premium frozen side for convenient preparation
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Achieve a great texture in the air fryer
- Premium quality ingredients
- A flavorful, healthier alternative
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Cons:
- Smaller bag size compared to some other options
- The sweet potato taste isn’t universally appealing
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User Impressions: Many users are impressed by how well these Alexia sweet potato fries crisp up in the air fryer, often noting their gourmet taste and perfect seasoning. They’re a hit for those looking for a slightly more elevated frozen fry experience.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What kind of fresh potato is best for air fryer fries?
A: For fresh, homemade air fryer fries, Russet potatoes (also known as Idaho potatoes) are generally considered the best. Their high starch content and low moisture content make them ideal for achieving a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Yukon Golds are also a good runner-up!
Q2: Should I pre-soak fresh potatoes for air fryer fries?
A: Yes, if you’re making fresh fries from scratch, soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) can help remove excess starch. This step can lead to even crispier fries and prevent them from sticking together. Always pat them thoroughly dry before air frying!
Q3: Do I need to add oil to air fryer fries?
A: For frozen fries, many brands are pre-coated with a little oil, so you might not need to add more. For homemade fresh fries, a very light toss with about a teaspoon of oil (like avocado or olive oil) per batch helps achieve that golden-brown crisp and prevents sticking. The beauty of the air fryer is how little oil you actually need!
Q4: How long do I cook fries in an air fryer?
A: Cooking times vary depending on the thickness of your fries, your air fryer model, and whether they’re fresh or frozen. Generally, frozen fries take 15-25 minutes at 375-400°F (190-200°C), while fresh fries might take 20-30 minutes. Always shake the basket every 5-7 minutes for even cooking and crisping!
Q5: Can I put frozen fries directly into an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! This is one of the biggest conveniences of the air fryer. Most frozen fries are designed to go straight from the freezer into your air fryer basket without thawing. Just follow the package directions for temperature and time, adjusting as needed for your specific air fryer.
Q6: Why are my air fryer fries not crispy?
A: There are a few common reasons:
* Overcrowding: Don’t overload the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary so air can circulate properly.
* Not dry enough (for fresh fries): Excess moisture prevents crisping. Pat fresh potatoes very dry.
* Not enough oil (for fresh fries): A tiny bit of oil helps crisp.
* Temperature too low: Make sure your air fryer is preheated to the recommended temperature.
* Not shaking the basket: Shaking helps ensure even exposure to hot air.
Q7: Are air fryer fries healthier than deep-fried?
A: Generally, yes. Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, which means fewer calories and less fat. While they might not be “healthy” in the vegetable sense, they are a much healthier alternative to their deep-fried counterparts, allowing you to enjoy your favorite crispy treat with less guilt.
The Crispy Conclusion
Finding the best potatoes for fries in air fryer can truly change your at-home fry experience. Whether you stick to classic Russet-based cuts or venture into the delightful world of sweet potato fries, the air fryer is your best friend for achieving that perfect golden crisp. Experiment with these top picks, and get ready to enjoy delicious, healthier fries whenever the craving strikes! Happy air frying!