Are you on a quest for perfectly golden, crispy fries without the greasy mess of deep frying? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! This kitchen marvel has revolutionized how we enjoy our favorite frozen snacks, turning soggy spuds into delectable delights. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best brand frozen fries for air fryer?
We get it. The sheer variety of frozen fries can be overwhelming, and not all are created equal when it comes to air frying. Some turn out perfectly crisp, while others remain a bit limp. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, not just on the top frozen fries that truly shine in an air fryer, but also a few essential tools that will elevate your air-frying game to a whole new level. Get ready to discover your new go-to for quick, delicious, and perfectly crunchy fries!
How We Chose Our Top Picks
Our selection process focused on a few key factors to ensure you get the most out of your air fryer:
* Crispiness Potential: Do these fries get that satisfying crunch?
* Flavor Profile: Are they well-seasoned and tasty on their own?
* Ease of Preparation: How simple are they to cook to perfection?
* Ingredient Quality: What are they made of?
* Overall Value: Do they offer a great experience for the price?
* Air Fryer Compatibility: Since we’re looking for the best brand frozen fries for air fryer, we also included highly-rated air fryers and coatings that complement a fantastic air-fried meal!
The 7 Best Frozen Fries & Air Fryer Essentials
Let’s dive into our top picks that promise to deliver crispy, delicious results every time.
1. Arby’s Seasoned Curly Fries, 22 oz (Frozen)
Who doesn’t love Arby’s iconic curly fries? Now you can enjoy that unique, seasoned spiral goodness right in your own home, made perfectly crispy in your air fryer. These aren’t just any fries; their distinct shape and signature seasoning make them a standout, offering a fun, flavorful alternative to straight-cut options. They cook up beautifully in an air fryer, achieving that restaurant-quality crispiness without the need for a greasy deep fryer.
- Key Features:
- No Trans Fats per Serving
- Unique curly shape for extra crunch
- Signature Arby’s seasoning
- Pros:
- Excellent flavor and seasoning
- Achieves great crispiness in an air fryer
- Fun, unique shape
- Cons:
- Can be on the saltier side for some
- May require a bit of shaking to ensure even cooking due to shape
- User Impressions: Fans rave about how these taste just like getting them fresh from Arby’s. Many highlight their consistent crispiness when air-fried and how they quickly become a family favorite for easy weeknight sides or snacks.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries, 28 oz (Frozen)
Get ready to bring the drive-thru experience home with Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries! These aren’t your average frozen spuds; they come pre-seasoned with that irresistible blend of spices that makes them famous. When popped into the air fryer, they transform into perfectly golden-brown, crispy fries that are a dead ringer for the real deal. They’re fantastic as a side dish or just for satisfying those late-night fry cravings.
- Key Features:
- Frozen, pre-seasoned for convenience
- Delivers the famous Checkers/Rally’s taste
- Pros:
- Consistently crispy results in an air fryer
- Bold, delicious seasoning
- Great value in a larger bag
- Cons:
- Seasoning might be too strong for those preferring plain fries
- Some users report needing to adjust cook times for desired crispness
- User Impressions: Customers love the authentic taste and the fact that they can replicate their favorite fast-food fries at home. The convenience of the pre-seasoned nature is a big hit, making them a go-to for quick and tasty snacks.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Jesse & Ben’s Classic Sea Salt Fries, Made with Avocado Oil, 12 oz (Frozen)
If you’re looking for a cleaner, healthier take on your classic fries, Jesse & Ben’s Classic Sea Salt Fries are a game-changer. What sets them apart is their incredibly simple ingredient list: just potatoes, avocado oil, and sea salt. This makes them a fantastic choice for those avoiding seed oils or looking for vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO options. Despite their wholesome profile, they don’t compromise on that satisfying crispiness and authentic potato flavor you crave from the best brand frozen fries for air fryer.
- Key Features:
- Made with Only 3 Ingredients: Potatoes, avocado oil, and sea salt
- Seed Oil Free for a Healthier Choice
- Ideal for All Lifestyles: Vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO
- Crispy, Restaurant Quality Fries
- Pros:
- Excellent healthier alternative to traditional fries
- Achieves fantastic crispiness and texture in an air fryer
- Clean ingredients list is a big plus
- Cons:
- Might be pricier than conventional frozen fries
- Simple seasoning might be too plain for some
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the pure taste and the peace of mind that comes with minimal, quality ingredients. They frequently mention how surprisingly crispy these fries get in an air fryer, making them a staple for health-conscious fry lovers.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Birds Eye Shoestring Zucchini Fries, Frozen Vegetable Snacks, 12 oz
Looking to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing the “fry” experience? Birds Eye Shoestring Zucchini Fries are an ingenious solution! These aren’t potato fries, but they offer a delightful, crispy alternative for those seeking something different or a lighter option. Sliced zucchini is breaded in cornmeal and wheat flour, then lightly fried before freezing, ensuring they crisp up beautifully in your air fryer. They’re a smart way to enjoy a veggie snack that feels like an indulgence.
- Key Features:
- One 12 oz bag of Birds Eye Shoestring Zucchini Fries Frozen Vegetable Snacks
- Sliced zucchini breaded in cornmeal and wheat flour
- No artificial flavors or artificial colors
- Prepares in about 20 minutes in the oven (or faster in air fryer)
- Pros:
- Great way to enjoy vegetables in a fun, fry-like format
- Achieves a nice crispy texture in the air fryer
- Free from artificial flavors and colors
- Cons:
- Texture is softer than potato fries
- Might not satisfy a true potato fry craving
- User Impressions: Customers are pleasantly surprised by the taste and texture, often noting how these make eating vegetables enjoyable. They’re popular for kids and adults alike, especially when paired with a favorite dipping sauce.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil,… 4 Quart
While not a frozen fry product, a quality air fryer is absolutely essential to achieve that perfect crispiness from your best brand frozen fries for air fryer! The Ninja Air Fryer is a top contender, offering impressive performance that makes all your frozen favorites, including fries, come out beautifully. Its powerful convection heat cooks food quickly and evenly, ensuring a golden, crunchy exterior with a tender interior – exactly what you want from your fries!
- 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.
- EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher safe parts.
- Pros:
- Excellent performance for crispy results
- Generous capacity for family-sized portions
- Easy to clean parts
- Versatile with multiple cooking functions
- Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Can be noisy during operation
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Ninja Air Fryer for its ability to deliver incredibly crispy foods, especially frozen fries. Many consider it a kitchen staple, cutting down on cooking time and making healthier meals more accessible.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Ninja, Toaster Oven, Air Fryer, Thermometer, Toaster Oven… (Foodi Smart XL)
If you’re serious about your kitchen appliances and want a powerhouse that does it all, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Toaster Oven and Air Fryer is a fantastic investment, especially for perfecting your frozen fries. This multi-functional device combines air frying with a host of other capabilities, giving you unmatched versatility. Its Dual Heat Technology ensures a superior crisp and sear, making it an excellent choice for not just fries, but also pizzas, roasts, and more, all with that signature air-fried crisp.
- Key Features:
- DUAL HEAT TECHNOLOGY: Up to 500°F SearPlate and 500°F rapid cyclonic air for searing and crisping.
- MAXIMUM VERSATILITY: 13 Functions including Air Fry, Sear Crisp, Rapid Bake, Frozen Pizza, Roast, Toast, and more.
- SMART COOK SYSTEM: Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer for perfect doneness.
- AIR FRYER HEALTHY MEALS: Up to 75% less fat vs. traditional deep frying.
- XL FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: Fits up to 6 chicken breasts or 4 lbs of ingredients.
- RECLAIM YOUR COUNTER SPACE: Flips up for storage against backsplash.
- Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with 13 cooking functions
- Achieves superior crispiness and searing
- Smart thermometer is a huge convenience
- Space-saving design when stored
- Cons:
- Higher price point than basic air fryers
- Larger footprint when in use
- User Impressions: Reviewers are blown away by the range of functions and the quality of cooking. It’s especially loved for making perfect frozen pizzas and, of course, giving frozen fries an unbelievably crispy texture. The smart thermometer is a frequently cited favorite feature.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Louisiana AIR FRYER Seasoned Coating Mix for FISH
While not a fry itself, the Louisiana AIR FRYER Seasoned Coating Mix is an absolute must-have if you want to expand your air-frying repertoire beyond just fries. This seasoning mix is specifically designed to give meats, seafood, and even vegetables that perfect crispy, seasoned crust you’d typically get from deep frying – but in your air fryer! Imagine perfectly crisp chicken tenders, fish fillets, or even onion rings, all without the oil and mess. It complements your air-fried fries by expanding your crispy meal options!
- Key Features:
- Specifically formulated for air fryer use
- Provides a crispy, seasoned coating
- Versatile for fish, chicken, and other foods
- Pros:
- Delivers excellent crispiness without deep frying
- Adds a delicious savory flavor
- Easy to use
- Cons:
- Only useful for coated foods
- Might be too salty for some palates
- User Impressions: Users love how easy it is to use and how well it mimics the texture of deep-fried foods. It’s particularly popular for creating healthier versions of classic fried dishes, making air fryers even more versatile kitchen tools.
- See it on Amazon here
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fries Experience
Getting that perfect golden crisp from your best brand frozen fries for air fryer isn’t just about the brand; it’s also about technique! Here are a few pro tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air. If you pack too many fries in, the air can’t circulate effectively, leading to soggy spots. Cook in batches if needed.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, a preheated air fryer helps achieve immediate crisping.
- Shake, Shake, Shake! For even cooking and browning, give your fries a good shake every 5-7 minutes.
- A Little Oil Can Help: Most frozen fries come with some oil, but a light spritz of cooking spray (like avocado oil spray) can enhance crispiness, especially for plainer fries.
- Don’t Thaw: Cook frozen fries directly from the freezer. Thawing them can make them soft.
- Monitor Cook Times: Every air fryer is different. Start with the package directions but be prepared to adjust times based on your specific model and desired crispiness.
FAQ Section
Q1: What temperature is best for air frying frozen fries?
A1: Generally, 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C) is ideal for most frozen fries. This high temperature helps achieve a crispy exterior quickly.
Q2: How long do frozen fries take in an air fryer?
A2: Most frozen fries will take between 12-20 minutes in an air fryer, depending on their thickness, your air fryer model, and how crispy you like them. Remember to shake the basket every 5-7 minutes.
Q3: Do I need to add oil when air frying frozen fries?
A3: Most frozen fries come pre-coated with enough oil. However, a light spray of cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil) can help achieve extra crispiness, especially if your fries seem dry. Don’t overdo it, as too much oil can make them soggy.
Q4: Why are my air fryer fries not crispy?
A4: Common reasons for non-crispy fries include overcrowding the basket (which prevents proper air circulation), not preheating the air fryer, or not shaking the fries frequently enough during cooking. Ensure you’re cooking in a single layer if possible.
Q5: Can I air fry different types of frozen fries at the same time?
A5: It’s generally not recommended to mix different types (e.g., shoestring with steak fries) in the same batch, as they have different cooking times and ideal temperatures. Cook similar types together for best results.
Q6: Are air-fried frozen fries healthier than deep-fried?
A6: Yes, typically. Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional deep frying (up to 75% less fat), making it a healthier alternative for enjoying your favorite crispy foods.
Q7: What are some good dipping sauces for air-fried fries?
A7: The possibilities are endless! Classic ketchup, spicy sriracha mayo, tangy aioli, creamy ranch, or even a homemade cheese sauce are all fantastic options. Experiment to find your favorite!
Conclusion
Finding the best brand frozen fries for air fryer can truly elevate your snack game and simplify meal prep. From the delightfully seasoned curly fries of Arby’s to the wholesome goodness of Jesse & Ben’s, there’s a perfect fry out there for every preference. And with the right air fryer and complementary coatings, you’re set to unlock a world of crispy, delicious possibilities right from your kitchen counter. So, grab your favorite bag, fire up that air fryer, and get ready for some serious crunch!