Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

Learning how to make air fryer fries means you can get crispy, golden potatoes with a fraction of the oil a deep fryer needs. Start with russet potatoes, cut them into even sticks, dry them well, toss them in a little oil, and cook them in a single layer at 400°F. Most batches are done in 18 to 25 minutes, with a shake halfway through.

What You Need Before You Start

  • 2 medium russet potatoes (about 1 pound), or Yukon Golds for a creamier inside
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons of neutral oil such as avocado, canola, or refined olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt, plus more to taste after cooking
  • A cutting board, a sharp knife, and a bowl of cold water
  • Clean paper towels or a kitchen towel

Step 1: Cut and Soak the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes if you prefer a smooth exterior, or leave the skins on for a rustic bite. Cut them into sticks about 1/4 inch thick. Uniform size matters more than length, because thin pieces burn while thick ones stay soft. Soak the cut sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Soaking pulls out surface starch, which is what keeps fries from crisping evenly.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 6 Best Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries (2026): Expert Picks.

Step 2: Dry Thoroughly and Oil Lightly

Water is the biggest enemy of crispy fries. Drain the sticks, then dry them with a towel until no moisture comes off when you press. Toss the dry sticks with one tablespoon of oil and the salt in a bowl until every piece has a thin, even coat. Too much oil makes fries greasy rather than crisp, so resist the urge to drown them.

Step 3: Cook in a Single Layer at 400°F

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about three minutes. Spread the fries in a single layer in the basket, leaving small gaps between pieces so hot air can circulate. If your batch is too large, cook in two rounds rather than crowding the basket. Air fry for 12 minutes, pull the basket, shake it well, then cook another 6 to 13 minutes until the fries are golden and crisp at the edges. Thinner sticks finish closer to 18 minutes; thicker wedges may need the full 25.

Tips for Better Results

Goal Adjustment
Extra crispy Increase time by 2 to 3 minutes at the end
Softer inside Use thicker cuts and reduce heat to 375°F
Seasoned fries Add garlic powder, paprika, or grated Parmesan in the last 2 minutes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the soak, which leaves fries gummy and pale.
  • Failing to dry the potatoes, causing steaming instead of frying.
  • Overcrowding the basket, which traps moisture.
  • Salting too early, which can draw out water before cooking.
  • Forgetting to shake halfway, which leaves one side soft.

A simple set of tools makes the process more consistent. A mandoline slicer helps you cut uniform sticks quickly and safely. View on Amazon

A salad spinner can dry soaked potato sticks faster than a towel alone, especially for large batches. View on Amazon

A silicone-lined tong set helps you shake and flip fries without tearing the basket coating. View on Amazon

FAQ

Do I need to use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?

No, but frozen fries are a fast alternative. They usually cook in 15 minutes and need no soaking or hand cutting. For details, see Frozen Fries in Air Fryer: Crispy Results in 15 Minutes.

Can I use oil spray instead of tossing with oil?

Yes, a light spray works well and reduces oil use. Spray the fries evenly before cooking and again after shaking.

How do I reheat leftover air fryer fries?

Reheat them at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes until hot and crisp again. Avoid the microwave, which makes them soft.

Conclusion

Soaking, drying, and cooking in a single layer are the three habits that separate great air fryer fries from disappointing ones. Once you have the basics down, try Homemade French Fries Air Fryer: Crispy Results in 30 Minutes for a longer-cooking variation. Keep your basket clean between batches, and your fries will stay crisp every time.

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Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our home cooking with appliances guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.