Air Fryer Hack: Frozen French Fries, Cooked Perfectly

French fries are a beloved snack and side dish, but the process of deep frying them in oil can be messy and unhealthy. Air fryers offer a convenient, healthier alternative to deep frying, and they can cook frozen french fries to crispy, crunchy, fluffy, soft, and golden perfection. While every air fryer is different, requiring some experimentation with time and temperature settings, cooking frozen french fries in an air fryer is a simple process that yields impressive results.

Cooking Frozen French Fries in an Air Fryer

Air fryer settings and temperature

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook frozen French fries, as they require less oil, have a reduced cook time, and produce crispy and tasty results. The settings and temperature for cooking frozen French fries in an air fryer depend on the type of air fryer and the style of the fries.

Temperature

The ideal temperature for cooking frozen French fries in an air fryer is between 365°F and 400°F. Some sources recommend a temperature of 375°F, while others suggest 390°F or 400°F for the best results. It is important to note that the temperature may need to be adjusted based on the type of French fries being cooked. For example, waffle fries may require a lower temperature due to their thin and ridged shape.

Settings

The cooking time for frozen French fries in an air fryer can vary depending on the desired level of crispiness. On average, it takes about 10-12 minutes to cook frozen French fries in an air fryer. However, the cooking time can range from 8 to 25 minutes, depending on the style of the fries and the specific air fryer being used. It is recommended to shake the basket or tray of the air fryer halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and browning. Additionally, it is important not to overcrowd the basket or tray, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy fries. For best results, it is recommended to cook the fries in a single layer and in batches if necessary.

Tips for Crispy Fries

To achieve crispier French fries, it is recommended to spray the basket or tray with oil before adding the frozen fries. Avocado oil is suggested due to its high smoke point. Additionally, shaking the basket or tray at regular intervals during the cooking process can help to ensure even cooking and crispiness. For those who prefer their fries extra crispy, increasing the cooking time by a few minutes can help achieve the desired texture.

Oil and seasoning

While air-fried French fries are healthier than deep-fried ones, you can still add oil and seasoning to enhance the taste and texture.

Oil

Air fryers need oil to get things crispy. Frozen fries usually have oil on them already, but you can add more if you like. Avocado oil is a good option because of its high smoke point. You can also use olive oil or vegetable oil. Lightly spray the oil on the fries or use a brush to apply it.

Seasoning

You can season your fries with salt to taste. Fine salt is better because it sticks to the fries. You can also use seasoned salt. Other seasoning options include garlic powder, onion salt, or ranch powder. You can also make spicy fries with cayenne pepper, chili powder, and cumin. If you want to get creative, try adding butter, olive oil, garlic, fresh parmesan, and parsley to your fries.

It is recommended to season the fries after frying, as this distributes the flavor more evenly. However, you can also season the fries before cooking if you prefer. Just be sure to shake the tray or basket every few minutes to ensure even cooking and distribution of seasoning.

Crispy French fries

Yes, you can cook frozen French fries in an air fryer. The air fryer will give you crispy, crunchy, and golden French fries that are soft and fluffy on the inside, just like your favorite fast-food fries.

How to Make Crispy French Fries in an Air Fryer:

Follow these steps to make crispy French fries in an air fryer:

• Start with your favorite brand of frozen French fries. You can use a 16 oz bag or a larger bag, but if it's bigger, you'll need to cook the fries in batches.
• Place the frozen fries in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't fill more than half to 3/4 full. It's important not to overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking.
• Lightly spray the fries with olive oil and sprinkle with salt or your desired seasonings. You can also try other seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.
• Set the air fryer temperature to between 360-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Air fry the frozen French fries for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness and type of fry. For crispier fries, increase the cooking time.
• Give the air fryer basket a good shake halfway through cooking and rotate the fries to ensure even cooking.
• Check on the fries regularly to avoid overcooking, as air fryers can vary in cooking time.
• Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve them hot.

Tips for Extra Crispy French Fries:

• Soak the potatoes in cold water for at least an hour before cutting them into fries. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
• Dry the potatoes thoroughly after soaking and before placing them in the air fryer.
• Cut the potatoes into thin, even sticks using a mandoline for the perfect French fry shape.
• Brush the fries with butter, diced garlic, and finely diced parsley during the final 15 minutes of cooking for indulgent garlic butter fries.

Frozen French fry alternatives

Frozen French fries are a convenient and tasty side dish, especially when cooked in an air fryer. However, if you're looking for some alternatives to the classic frozen French fry, there are several options to consider.

First, you can experiment with different types of potatoes. For example, sweet potatoes can be a great alternative and can be cooked in the same way as regular potatoes in an air fryer. You can also try different cuts and shapes, such as thin and crispy shoestring fries or crinkle-cut fries, which can add some variety to your dish.

If you're looking for a more significant change, you can explore alternative vegetables to potatoes. Taro, for instance, is a root vegetable similar to potatoes but with added health benefits. Cut them into matchsticks, season with oil, salt, garlic, and rosemary, and bake until crispy. Zucchini is another option; cut them into matchsticks, coat them in an egg wash and breadcrumbs, and bake for a crunchy texture. Green beans are also a trendy and emerging choice for a French fry alternative.

You can also get creative with your seasonings and spices. For example, try using seasoned salt or your favorite spice blend to add extra flavor to your fries. If you're feeling adventurous, make a deluxe French fry salad by mixing and matching different vegetables, proteins, and toppings to create a unique and nutritious dish.

By exploring these alternatives, you can add variety to your meals, incorporate different nutrients, and discover new flavors and textures while still enjoying the convenience and taste of French fries.

Serving suggestions

Frozen French fries cooked in an air fryer are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, side dish, or even a meal. They can be paired with a range of dips and sauces or enjoyed on their own.

For a classic combination, serve your air-fried French fries with ketchup. Other popular dipping sauce options include mayonnaise, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and honey mustard. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try more unique dips such as basil aioli, Sriracha aioli, or a spicy African pepper sauce.

If you prefer your fries with a bit of spice, consider adding seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a touch of cayenne pepper. You can also sprinkle on some parmesan cheese for added flavour. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasoning blends, such as Cajun or chili powder.

Air-fried French fries also make a great side dish for sandwiches, chicken nuggets, or easy weeknight meals. They can be a healthier alternative to deep-fried fries, with less oil and faster cooking times. Whether you serve them as a snack or a side, air-fried French fries are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Frequently asked questions