Air Fryer Seasoned French Fries

Main Ingredients

• 2 large Russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs / 700g), scrubbed clean

• 1.5 tablespoons high-smoke-point oil (Avocado oil, Extra light olive oil, or Canola oil)

Signature Seasoning Blend

• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (substitute sweet paprika for less smokiness)

• 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon Fine sea salt (plus more to taste after cooking)

• 1/4 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper

• 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kicked-up heat)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cut the Potatoes

Keep the skins on for extra texture and nutrients, or peel them if you prefer a classic takeaway style. Slice the potatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick planks. Then, slice each plank into 1/4-inch-wide matchsticks. Try to keep the size as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.

2. Soak out the Starch

Place the cut fries into a large bowl and cover them completely with ice-cold water. Let them soak for 15 to 30 minutes.

3. Dry Thoroughly

Drain the potatoes in a colander. Transfer them onto a clean kitchen towel or layers of paper towels. Pat them aggressively until every surface is bone dry.

4. Oil and Season

In a dry bowl, toss the dried potatoes with the 1.5 tablespoons of oil until every piece is lightly coated. In a small ramekin, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle the blend evenly over the oiled fries and toss well to coat.

5. Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.

Arrange the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket—if cooking a double batch, work in two separate rounds so the hot air circulates freely.

• Initial Fry (380°F / 193°C): Air fry for 12 minutes, pulling the basket out to shake vigorously halfway through (at the 6-minute mark).

• Final Crisp (400°F / 204°C): Increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and fry for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket every 2 minutes until the edges are deep golden-brown and crisp.

6. Finish and Serve

Transfer the hot fries immediately to a plate. Taste and hit them with a light pinch of extra sea salt while the oil is still glistening. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Recipe Intensity & Cooking Dynamics

Pro-Tips for Success

• Potato Selection: Always choose Russet potatoes (Idaho potatoes). Their high starch content and low moisture density make them far superior for frying compared to waxy varieties like Red or Yukon Gold.

• Avoid Sauce Soggy-ness: Wait to sauce your fries until you are ready to eat. If using wet dips like honey mustard or garlic aioli, serve them strictly on the side.

• Reheating Instructions: Never microwave leftover fries! Pop leftover air fryer fries back into the air fryer basket at 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 4 minutes, and they will return to their original crispy state.

Nutritional Information

Values are estimates per serving (based on 4 equal servings).