Frozen FRENCH FRIES in the AIR FRYER

Can I put frozen French fries in the air fryer? Absolutely YES, and you’re in for a treat! Cooking air fryer frozen French fries is perfect when craving darn good fried French fries without the mess and calories of deep frying. Also, whether you prefer shoestring fries, curly fries, thicker fries, or other type of fry, the air fryer turns them golden and crispy with minimal effort. Finally, see this popular recipe and guide in our Potatoes, Fast Food, French Cuisine, Sides, and Vegetables categories.

Mastering the Optional Ingredients for your Crispy Air Fryer Fries

Starting with any size bag of your preferred frozen French fries is the first step towards air fried crispy perfection. So, a 16 oz size bag (1 pound) is ideal for serving 2-4 people, making it perfect for family snacks or side dishes. Finally, the cut of the fries might be regular, shoestring, crinkle, or wedges.

So, keep reading to see about the 3 optional added ingredients considerations.

1. Seasonings
2. Oil or no oil
3. Dips

1. Adding SEASONINGS for Frozen French fries in the Air Fryer

Sprinkle seasonings before cooking frozen French fries in the air fryer. Seasonings can be salt, garlic powder, or onion powder. With that said, you’re going from good to gourmet fries. Also, for a bit more zest, tossing your fries with Cajun seasoning or chili powder can change them into seasoned fries bursting with flavor.

2. Using OIL or NO OIL for Frozen French fries in the Air Fryer

While it’s possible to cook a bag of frozen French fries without oil, a light spray can enhance both flavor and texture, turning regular air fries into very extra crispy hot French delights. Also, the cooking process is simple: lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with oil and or the frozen fries themselves. Finally, you have the choice to add minimal oil or go oil-free, depending on your preference and health considerations.

3. DIPS After Cooking Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer

Dipping sauces like ranch dressing or cheese sauce can turn a simple batch of cooking frozen French fries in the air fryer into a special treat or appetizer. So, here’s a short list of some dip ideas good for French fries.

• Ranch dressing
• Honey mustard
• Cheese sauce
• Guacamole
• Ketchup (LoL!)

How To Cook Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer

Overall, cooking frozen French fries in the air fryer is speedy, easy, and tasty. Whether you’re craving shoestring fries, curly fries, or something a bit different, start by lightly spraying the basket to prevent sticking. Then, add your fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking, and don’t forget to shake the basket every 5 minutes. Accordingly, this ensures all sides get golden and crispy. Lastly, experiment with toppings like ranch dressing or cheese sauce for an extra flavor boost.

1. Preheat Air Fryer

For the best results, always preheat your air fryer before adding the fries. Accordingly, this ensures the cooking starts immediately and helps achieve a uniform crispiness. Then, dump in the fries for a modestly thin layer to allow the hot air to circulate freely, adding the fries to the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Hence, this step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

2. Prepare The Frozen Fries

Coat the frozen fries with any optional oil and seasonings. Peanut oil is one good preference. You can do all this in the fryer as soon as you dump them into it. You’ll need to give a initial good toss, however, to coat them all.

3. Cooking Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer

Then, dump in the fries to start cooking at the selected temperature and time. Also, keep reading to see the below French Fry Air Fryer Cooking Chart as a guide.

CHART For Cooking Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer: Times, Temperatures, Types

Here’s an easy Air Fryer French Fry Cooking Chart guide to help you nail the perfect cook time and temperature for various cuts of fries. However, it’s important to know that this references an air fryer that’s been preheated for 2-3 minutes and is cooking a quantity of about 16 oz. (1 pound) of frozen French fries. So, adjust your cooking times longer if you don’t preheat. Finally, like ovens, air fryers differ so, there might be some needed changes for your times or temps.

Frozen French Fries TYPE CUT	Air Fryer TEMP F°(C°)	COOK TIME Minutes
Regular Straight Cut	375 F° (191 C°) lowest	20-25
	390 F° (199 C°) typical	17-22
	400 F° (204 C°) BEST	15-20
	450 F° (232 C°) max	9-12
Crinkle Cut	390 F° (199 C°) typical	17-22
	400 F° (204 C°) BEST	15-20
Sweet Potato Fries	390 F° (199 C°)	18-23
Curly Fries	390 F° (199 C°) typical	14-20
	400 F° (204 C°) BEST	12-18
Shoestring; aka Fast Food fries	375 F° (191 C°) lowest	10-15
	390 F° (199 C°) typical	9-13
	400 F° (204 C°) BEST	8-12
Wedge Cut; aka Potato Logs, Steak Fries	375 F° (191 C°) typical	20-28
	390 F° (199 C°) BEST	18-25
Waffle Fries	390 F° (199 C°) typical	15-20
	400 F° (204 C°) BEST	12-16
Tator Tots	390 F° (199 C°) typical	16-20
	400 F° (204 C°) BEST	14-16
REHEATING Any Cut; small qty, ¼ lb. (113 g)	390-400 F° (199-204 C°)	3-4
REHEATING Any Cut; medium qty, ½ lb. (227 g)	390-400 F° (199-204 C°)	4-6
REHEATING Any Cut; large qty, 1 lb. (0.45 kg)	390-400 F° (199-204 C°)	6-8
Frozen French Fries TYPE CUT	Air Fryer TEMP F°(C°)	COOK TIME Minutes

How To Use The Air Fryer CHART of Times and Temperatures for Cooking Frozen French Fries

Adjust the times based on your air fryer model and how crispy you like your fries. Remember, not all air fryers are made the same. So it’s best to start checking a few minutes before the lowest temp is shown in the chart.

For crispy edges and soft insides, the air fryer temperature and time are key. Crinkle fries and thicker cuts like wedge fries may require a few extra minutes, while shoestring fries are quick to crisp up. Especially, always arrange the fries in a smallest layer for the most even cook.

The Art of Shaking and Tossing for Even Crispiness

Shaking the basket every 5 minutes during cooking is a simple yet effective way to ensure your fries cook evenly. However, for cooking times 12 minutes or longer, wait an initial 7 minutes for the very first shake. This tossing allows hot air to circulate around each fry. Also, it allows any excess moisture from the frozen fries to escape, adding to crispiness.

Tips and Tricks for Air Fryer Success

For the crispiest fries of this easy side dish, follow this list of tips and remember don’t overcrowd the basket.

• Preheating the air fryer for at least 2 minutes will help a lot for adding crispness.
• Cooking the fries in a single or shallow layer ensures each one gets evenly cooked and deliciously crispy.
• Sometimes, a light spray of oil (not cooking spray) will add some extra crispness.
• Giving the fries a toss every few minutes help a lot for overall crispness. And it relieves any excess moisture.
• Once cooked, remove the fries in less than 5 minutes to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Adjustments for Shoestring to Wedge Cuts

Different cuts of fries require small to large adjustments in cooking times and temperatures. Shoestring fries are thin and crisp up quickly, and they compare with your favorite fast food fries. However, the wedge cuts type of fries, being thicker, take a lot longer. Paying attention to these details will ensure that no matter the cut, your fries will come out crispy and delicious each time. Also, our CHART of Frozen fries in the Air Fryer will be a huge help.

Air Fryer Specs That Are Best for French Fries and Other Foods

Choosing an air fryer that suits your cooking needs like French fries is vital. Look for models that offer the following features and functions.

• Even heat distribution. All will claim they have it but there might be some extra detail pointed out that is better for this.
• Have a max temp of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The earlier models maxed out at 390. Fries tend to cook at an optimal temp of 400 F.
• Ceramic coating. Other non-stick coatings tend to wear off and lead to health concerns over time. Ceramic coatings stay on and they clean up easier.
• Large basket sizes are good for enabling you to have a smaller layer height, a necessity for French fries. Look for 7 quarts or more, even for just 2 people.
• Look for an air fryer that has a removable crisper plate, instead of a removal basket from inside another basket.
• If the air fryer has a smaller footprint on the countertop, the chances of easily fitting in the dishwasher improves.
• Overall, it’s a balance of large capacity, small equipment size on counter, having a ceramic coating, and a removable crisper plate.
• Extra Tip: Sometimes, the crisper plate is adjustable for 2 heights, like for broiling in the air fryer.
• Final Tip: The Ninja line of air fryers from are probably the most popular in the United States. Many have most or all of these above listed specs. Also, some can do a temp up to 450 F at over 1700 watts, referred as their “Max Crisp Technology”.

Equipment Essentials for Flawless Frying

To achieve flawless frying results, especially for crispy French fries, having the right equipment is non-negotiable. An air fryer with adjustable temperature controls and a timer is essential for precise cooking. Additionally, accessories like non-stick baskets (preferably ceramic) and silicone mats can make the process smoother and cleanup easier, ensuring your fries turn out perfectly every time.

From Baskets to Oil Sprayers

Key to achieving the perfect air-fried foods are the tools you use. Baskets designed for your specific air fryer model ensure even airflow and cooking, while oil sprayers help you lightly coat the frozen fries with just enough oil to get a golden, crispy texture without the excess fat. Basically, these tools are indispensable for anyone looking to perfect their air frying technique.

Serving and Storage Insights

Once you’ve mastered the art of air frying frozen fries, serve them and store the excess as leftovers in the fridge.

Best Practices for Serving Air Fryer French Fries

Serve your air fryer French fries within 5 minutes after cooking. This ensures they retain their crispy texture and warmth. Also, if you’re looking to nice touch, consider serving them in a paper-lined (or cloth napkin-lined) basket or on a platter with dipping sauces on the side.

Storage Solutions for Leftover Fries

For leftover fries, the best storage solution is to transfer them to an airtight food container after they’ve cooled down. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor, making them easier to reheat for later enjoyment. Avoid leaving them out for too long, as exposure to air can make them soggy.

How to Reheat Leftover Fries in the Air Fryer

To revive your leftover fries and bring back their crispy texture, you can reheat them in the air fryer. Just preheat the air fryer like usual and look over the cooking chart to see the times and temps for “Reheating”. This method is far superior to microwaving and it will regain much of their original crispiness. However, you don’t want to spray with oil for reheating fries.

Nutrition of Cooking Air Fryer Frozen Fries

Cooking air fryer frozen fries not only yields deliciously crispy French fries but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. By going oilless or using minimal oil, you can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content of your fries, making them a guilt-free addition to any meal.

Calorie Counts and Healthier Choices

When it comes to making healthier decisions, air frying frozen fries is a smart choice. This cooking manner lets you enjoy the taste and texture of fried foods without the excess calories and fats associated with deep frying. By opting for air frying, you can indulge in your favorite comfort food, with easier consideration towards your health goals.

What Goes With French Fries

• Hamburgers from the Grill
• Hot Dogs from the Grill
• Chili Dogs
• Both Hamburgers and Hot Dogs from the Grill
• Little Smokies on the Stovetop
• Burger Sliders
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
• Ham & Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
• Fried Chicken Strips
• Good ole Southern Ribs from the Grill
• Ribeye Steak from the Grill
• Brats from the Grill
• BLT Sandwiches
• Meatloaf
• Sloppy Joe Sandwiches
• Buffalo Wings from the Air Fryer
• Pulled Pork Sandwiches

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Concluding Summary of Cooking Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer

Embracing the air fryer for cooking frozen French fries not only ensures crispy outcomes but also introduces a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. From understanding the importance of cooking in batches for even crispness to exploring the variety of recipes and community wisdom, your journey with air-fried fries is bound to be exciting. Remember, the key to success lies in the details, like seasoning, temperature, and timing, to achieve that perfect batch of fries every time.

Share your experiences and tips to help everyone achieve their best results with their air fryer French fries. Talk about your ideas, tips, and experiences by leaving a comment.