Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) frozen French fries (any cut)

• Fine salt, to taste

• Optional: neutral oil spray (helps extra crunch), pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or your favorite fry seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3–5 minutes. Hot basket = crisp fries.

2. Load fries in a single, even layer—don’t pack them tight. Lightly spray with oil only if you like extra crunch.

3. Cook with a shake halfway:

   • Shoestring: 10–14 min

   • Straight-cut: 14–18 min

   • Crinkle/Curly: 16–20 min

   • Waffle/Steak fries: 12–18 min (check early; they brown fast on edges)
     Add 1–3 minutes for super crisp.

4. Season immediately after cooking (salt sticks best when they’re hot). Toss and serve.

Signs they’re done: crisp edges, center no longer waxy, audible crunch when you tap one with a spoon.

Flavor Upgrades (pick one and toss after cooking)

• Garlic-Parm: 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan + ½ tsp garlic powder + pinch parsley.

• Smoky Cajun: ½ tsp each paprika & Cajun seasoning + pinch cayenne.

• Ranch Dust: 1 tsp dry ranch mix.

• Lemon-Pepper: ½ tsp lemon pepper + tiny squeeze of lemon over the basket.

• Truffle Salt: tiny pinch goes a long way.

Dips That Win

Quick aioli (mayo + grated garlic + lemon), chipotle mayo, honey-mustard, or classic ketchup.

Pro Tips

• Space = crisp. If 1 lb crowds your basket, cook in two batches.

• Shake like you mean it. At the halfway mark, shake to expose pale sides.

• Different wattages vary. If yours runs hot, start checking 2–3 min early.

• Reheat leftovers: 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes—they bounce back.

FAQs: Air Fryer Frozen French Fries

Do I need to add oil?
No. Most frozen fries already have a bit of oil. A light spray can boost crispness, but it’s optional.

Should I preheat the air fryer?
Yes—3–5 minutes at 400°F (205°C). A hot basket jump-starts browning and keeps fries from steaming.

Why are my fries soggy?
Usually overcrowding. Cook in a single layer with space and shake halfway so all sides get hot air.

How long should I cook different cuts?
Shoestring 10–14 min; straight-cut 14–18 min; crinkle/curly 16–20 min; waffle/steak 12–18 min. Add 1–3 minutes for extra crisp.

Do I thaw frozen fries first?
No—cook straight from frozen. Thawing adds moisture and kills crisp.

When do I season?
Right after cooking while they’re piping hot. Salt sticks best to hot fries; add dry seasonings now too.

Can I use parchment or a liner?
Only perforated air-fryer parchment. Solid liners block airflow and reduce crispness.

How do I make them extra crispy?
Preheat, don’t crowd, shake well at halfway, and give them 1–3 extra minutes. A quick oil mist also helps.

What temperature should I use?
400°F (205°C) is the sweet spot for most brands. If your fryer runs hot, try 390°F (200°C) and extend a minute.

Can I stack two layers?
For best results, no. If you must, shake more frequently and expect a slightly longer cook time.

How do I reheat leftover fries?
375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Shake once; they’ll crisp back up.

Are frozen fries gluten-free/vegan?
Many are vegan; gluten-free varies by brand and coating. Check the package to be sure.

Can I add fresh garlic or cheese?
Add after cooking. Toss with garlic powder + Parmesan (or your favorite seasoning) once they’re hot and crispy.

My fries browned outside but stayed pale inside—why?
Waffle/steak fries can brown fast on the edges. Lower to 390°F (200°C) and add a couple minutes so the interior finishes without over-browning.

Check out these air fryer recipes: Easy Air Fryer Hamburgers Recipe, Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe.