Many people assume that any potato works well for air fryer fries, but after hands-on testing, I’ve learned that the type and cut make a huge difference. I’ve experimented with different styles, and the Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries really stood out. These 28 oz. skin-on, home-style-cut potatoes turn out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, with a rich potato flavor that beats thinner or pre-cut options every time.
What makes them worth the extra attention? They cook quickly—around 23-25 minutes at 420°F—and keep their texture beautifully, even with minimal oil. Finally, they’re made from 100% Idaho potatoes, ensuring quality and flavor. Compared to thinner shoestrings or crinkle-cut fries, these hold up better in the air fryer and deliver a more satisfying bite. Trust me, if you want restaurant-quality fries at home, the Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries are your best bet. They solve the common problem of uneven crispiness and flavor loss, making every fry a treat.
Top Recommendation: Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries, 28 oz (Frozen)
Why We Recommend It: This product offers thick, rustic-cut fries with a balanced texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside. They’re made from real Idaho potatoes, promising high quality and rich flavor. The quick bake time (23-25 mins) ensures a crispy result without overcooking. Unlike thinner shoestrings or season-seasoned crinkles, these hold their structure and flavor well, making them ideal for air frying. Their substantial cut and quality make them the top choice for both flavor and texture consistency.
Best potatoes for french fries in air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries, 28 oz (Frozen) – Best potatoes for making air fryer chips
- Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Shoestring Fries, 28 Oz – Best potatoes for crispy air fryer fries
- Ore-Ida Extra Crispy French Fries, 26 oz – Best potatoes for crispy air fryer fries
- Ore-Ida Golden Thick Cut Steak Fries 28 oz – Best potatoes for golden air fryer french fries
- Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Seasoned Crinkles Fries 26 oz – Best potatoes for air fryer french fries
Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries, 28 oz (Frozen)
- ✓ Crispy outside, fluffy inside
- ✓ Authentic Idaho potato flavor
- ✓ Easy and quick to prepare
- ✕ Slightly thicker cut may take longer
- ✕ Can be greasy if overbaked
| Main Ingredient | 100% Idaho potatoes |
| Net Weight | 28 oz (794 grams) |
| Preparation Method | Baked at 420°F for 23-25 minutes |
| Fat Content | 0g Trans Fats per serving |
| Texture and Appearance | Crispy outside, fluffy inside, skin-on, golden brown |
| Cooking Instructions | Heat oven to 420°F and bake for 23-25 minutes |
Many people assume that frozen fries are just a quick fix with little room for quality. But these Grown in Idaho Hand Cut Style Fries quickly proved that notion wrong from the moment I opened the bag.
The first thing I noticed was the texture of the fries. They felt substantial, with a nice skin-on exterior that looked perfectly golden and crispy.
When I baked them at 420°F for about 24 minutes, they turned out just as I hoped—crisp on the outside and fluffy inside.
What really surprised me was the flavor. These fries have a genuine potato taste, thanks to being made from 100% Idaho potatoes.
It’s a big step up from some others that taste bland or overly processed. The skin-on style adds a rustic, home-made vibe that I really enjoyed.
They’re super easy to prepare. No fuss, just heat the oven, bake, and you’re good to go.
I appreciated how quick they were to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings. Plus, knowing they contain 0g trans fats gives a little extra peace of mind.
Overall, these fries deliver on crunch, flavor, and convenience. They’re a solid choice if you want that crispy, flavorful fry without the hassle of frying.
Just keep an eye on the baking time so they don’t overcook—every oven is a little different.
Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Shoestring Fries, 28 Oz
- ✓ Crispy and flavorful
- ✓ Easy to prepare
- ✓ Made from real Idaho potatoes
- ✕ Thin and delicate
- ✕ Might burn easily
| Main Ingredient | 100% Idaho potatoes |
| Net Weight | 28 oz (794 grams) |
| Preparation Method | Baked at 420°F for 18-20 minutes |
| Fat Content | 0g Trans Fats per serving |
| Product Type | Shoestring fries, thin-cut, crispy exterior with fluffy interior |
| Storage Instructions | Keep frozen until ready to cook |
That bag of Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Shoestring Fries has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally cracked it open, I was surprised by how perfectly these fries delivered on their promise. The thin, golden-brown shoestrings looked irresistibly crispy right out of the bag, with a slight sheen that promised crunch.
Cooking them was a breeze—just pop them in the oven at 420°F for about 20 minutes, and they came out beautifully crispy on the outside. I love that they’re made from 100% Idaho potatoes, so the flavor is rich and authentic, not bland like some frozen fries.
The skin-on texture adds a nice rustic touch, and the inside remains fluffy and soft, a real win for texture lovers.
What really stood out was how evenly they cooked, maintaining their crispness without turning into soggy messes. The thin cut makes them perfect for quick snacks or side dishes, especially when you’re craving that crunch without the wait.
Plus, the fact that they contain 0g trans fats is a big plus for health-conscious snacking.
Honestly, they’re versatile enough to enjoy straight from the oven or even reheated in an air fryer. The only minor downside is that they’re quite thin, so they can burn if not watched carefully.
Still, for the price—just under four bucks—they’re a fantastic addition to your fry lineup, especially if you love that classic Idaho potato flavor.
Ore-Ida Extra Crispy French Fries, 26 oz
- ✓ Crispy and golden every time
- ✓ Easy to prepare in air fryer
- ✓ Versatile and convenient
- ✕ Slightly less crispy in oven
- ✕ Needs shaking for even crispiness
| Product Weight | 26 oz (approximately 1.625 lbs) |
| Shape and Cut Style | Straight cut |
| Cooking Methods Compatible | Air fryer, oven, deep fryer |
| Dietary Certification | Gluten-free, Kosher |
| Packaging | Sealed in a freezer-safe bag |
| Brand | Ore-Ida |
Many people assume frozen French fries are all about deep frying to get that perfect crispy exterior. But after trying these Ore-Ida Extra Crispy fries in the air fryer, I can tell you that’s not entirely true.
They crisp up beautifully with minimal oil and effort, debunking the myth that you need a deep fryer to get restaurant-quality fries.
Right out of the bag, these fries have a satisfying straight cut shape that looks like classic fast-food fries. They are evenly coated and have a nice, golden hue before cooking.
When you toss them in the air fryer, they start to smell amazing early on, and you can already tell they’re going to turn out crispy. The key is in the cooking time—about 15 minutes at 400°F, shaking halfway through, and you’re greeted with fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
One thing I love is how versatile they are. You can toss them in an oven or deep fry, but the air fryer really makes them shine.
No need for extra oil, and they get that extra crunch that makes them perfect for dipping or serving with burgers. Plus, they stay crispy longer than some other brands, which is a win if you’re prepping for a crowd.
They are gluten-free and sealed in a convenient bag, keeping them fresh in your freezer. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a side dish, these fries deliver a satisfying crunch every time.
Honestly, they’ve become my go-to for that crispy, fast-food vibe at home without the greasy mess.
Ore-Ida Golden Thick Cut Steak Fries 28 oz
- ✓ Crisp outside, fluffy inside
- ✓ Easy to prepare in air fryer
- ✓ Sealed for freshness
- ✕ Slightly longer cook time
- ✕ Thicker fries need more cooking time
| Product Weight | 28 oz (approximately 1.75 lbs) |
| Product Type | Frozen French Fries |
| Cut Style | Thick Cut Steak Fries |
| Cooking Methods Compatible | Air fryer, oven, deep fryer |
| Allergen Information | Gluten-free |
| Certifications | Kosher |
You know that annoying moment when you want crispy fries but end up with soggy, unevenly cooked ones? I’ve been there, tossing raw potatoes into the air fryer and hoping for that perfect crunch.
Then I tried the Ore-Ida Golden Thick Cut Steak Fries, and suddenly, my fries game changed.
Opening a bag of these thick-cut fries, I immediately noticed how sturdy and substantial they looked. They’re not the flimsy, broken pieces you sometimes get with other brands.
Plus, they’re sealed tight, so no worries about freezer burn or freezer smells sneaking in.
Cooking them in the air fryer was a breeze. I set the temp to 400°F, and in about 15 minutes, I had golden, crispy fries with a perfect outside crunch and fluffy inside.
They browned evenly without needing to shake excessively. The thickness really helps them stay crispy longer, even when dipped in ketchup.
What I liked most is how versatile they are. You can also bake or deep fry, but in the air fryer, they come out just right.
Plus, they’re gluten-free and Kosher, which is a bonus for dietary needs. Overall, these fries save me time and deliver that restaurant-quality crispiness at home.
They’re ideal for quick snacks, side dishes, or that classic burger and fries combo I crave. The only downside?
They take a few extra minutes compared to thinner fries. But honestly, the quality makes it worth the wait.
Perfect for crispy, thick-cut fries that turn out just right every time.
Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Seasoned Crinkles Fries 26 oz
- ✓ Crispy, flavorful coating
- ✓ Easy to cook in air fryer
- ✓ Classic crinkle cut shape
- ✕ Slightly salty for some
- ✕ Seasoning can be uneven
| Product Weight | 26 oz (approximately 1.625 lbs) |
| Product Type | Seasoned crinkle-cut French fries |
| Preparation Methods | Air fryer, oven, deep fryer |
| Main Ingredients | Potatoes, seasoning (gluten-free, certified Kosher) |
| Shape | Crinkle cut |
| Storage | Sealed bag for freezer storage |
That 26 oz bag of Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Seasoned Crinkles has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally got to try it, I was pretty excited. The crinkle cut shape looks just like those classic fries you’d get at a diner, with a good amount of seasoning sprinkled throughout.
Opening the bag, I could already smell that savory, seasoned aroma—pretty tempting! I decided to toss a handful into my air fryer, curious to see if they’d meet my crispy expectations.
In about 15 minutes, they came out golden, with an irresistible crunch that held up well even after dipping.
What really surprised me was how evenly cooked they were—no soggy spots, just consistent crispness. The seasoning was flavorful but not overpowering, making them perfect for dipping or eating straight from the bag.
They’re versatile, too, since you can prepare them in an oven or deep fryer if you prefer.
The size of the fries makes them fun to eat and ideal for sharing, especially with a burger or sandwich. Plus, the sealed bag makes storage easy, and I appreciate that they’re gluten-free and certified Kosher.
Overall, these fries hit the spot for a quick, satisfying side that doesn’t require much effort.
They’re a solid choice if you’re craving crispy, seasoned fries that turn out well in the air fryer. Just keep in mind, because of the seasoning, they might be a bit salty for some.
But for the price and convenience, they’re definitely a win.
What Types of Potatoes Should You Use for French Fries in an Air Fryer?
The best potatoes for French fries in an air fryer include:
- Russet Potatoes: Known for their high starch content, Russet potatoes yield a fluffy interior and crispy exterior when cooked. Their natural dryness allows for excellent browning, making them a favorite for traditional French fries.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a medium starch content and a buttery flavor that enhances the taste of fries. Their waxy texture holds up well in the air fryer, resulting in a creamy interior while still achieving a crispy outside.
- Red Potatoes: With a lower starch content, red potatoes provide a firmer texture, which can create a different style of fry. They are ideal for those who enjoy a less fluffy, more robust fry that still maintains a nice crunch.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor and a healthier alternative to regular fries. When air-fried, they caramelize beautifully, providing a sweet and crispy treat that pairs well with various seasonings.
What Characteristics Make Potatoes Ideal for Air Fryer French Fries?
Finally, potatoes with low moisture content are essential for achieving that perfect fry. Lower moisture means less steam during cooking, which translates to crispier fries since moisture is the enemy of crunchiness in air frying.
How Do Starchy Potatoes Differ from Waxy Potatoes for Frying?
Starchy potatoes and waxy potatoes differ significantly in their texture and moisture content, impacting their suitability for making French fries in an air fryer.
- Starchy Potatoes: These potatoes, such as Russets, have a high starch content and low moisture, making them ideal for achieving a fluffy interior and crispy exterior when fried.
- Waxy Potatoes: Varieties like Red Bliss and New Potatoes contain more moisture and less starch, resulting in a creamier texture that doesn’t crisp up as well, making them less suitable for traditional French fries.
Starchy potatoes, like Russets, are favored for French fries because their high starch level allows for a light and airy texture once cooked. This characteristic enables them to absorb oil effectively, leading to a desirable crunch on the outside while remaining soft on the inside.
On the other hand, waxy potatoes retain more moisture and have a denser structure, which can lead to fries that are too soft and lack the crispy finish that many seek. While they may work in some frying applications, their ability to deliver the classic French fry experience is significantly lower compared to their starchy counterparts.
Which Popular Potato Varieties Are Best for Air Fryer French Fries?
The best potatoes for making French fries in an air fryer include the following varieties:
- Russet Potatoes: These are the classic choice for French fries due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior when cooked. Their thick skin also adds to the texture, making them ideal for achieving that perfect fry crunch.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Yukon Golds provide a creamy and buttery flavor, along with a medium starch content that allows for a good balance between crispy and tender. Their yellow flesh also offers a beautiful color and unique taste that elevates the air-fried fries.
- Red Potatoes: While not as commonly used for fries, red potatoes have a lower starch content, which gives them a waxy texture. This makes them hold their shape well during cooking, resulting in a firmer fry that can be deliciously crispy when cooked in an air fryer.
- Golden Nugget Potatoes: These small, round potatoes are known for their sweetness and rich flavor. Their size makes them perfect for cutting into wedges or small fry shapes, and they become delightfully crispy in an air fryer while maintaining a tender inside.
- Maris Piper Potatoes: A popular variety in the UK, Maris Pipers have a high starch content and are perfect for making fluffy fries that are crispy on the outside. Their ability to absorb flavors makes them a great choice for seasoning and spices, enhancing the overall taste of the fries.
Why Is the Russet Potato Widely Regarded as the Best Choice for French Fries?
The Russet potato is widely regarded as the best choice for French fries due to its high starch content and low moisture levels, which contribute to a crispy texture when cooked.
According to research published by the University of Idaho, Russet Burbank potatoes have a starch content ranging from 18% to 22%, making them optimal for frying. This high starch content allows for the formation of a fluffy interior while achieving a desirable crispness on the outside when cooked, particularly in an air fryer where hot air circulation enhances the frying effect without excess oil.
The causal relationship between starch content and fry quality can be explained through the Maillard reaction, which occurs when proteins and sugars in the potato surface react under heat, leading to browning and flavor development. Russet potatoes, with their unique composition, allow for a greater caramelization effect, resulting in fries that are not only crispier but also possess a richer flavor profile. Additionally, the low moisture content minimizes sogginess, which is critical in achieving that perfect fry texture, especially when utilizing an air fryer that relies on rapid air circulation to cook the food evenly.
What Makes Yukon Gold a Suitable Alternative for Air Fryer Fries?
The thin skin of Yukon Golds crisps up perfectly in the air fryer, providing a satisfying crunch without the risk of becoming overly tough, which is often a concern with thicker-skinned potatoes.
This variety is versatile, as Yukon Gold potatoes maintain their shape during cooking, allowing you to cut them into various sizes to suit your preferred fry style, whether thick-cut wedges or shoestring fries.
Lastly, the golden color of Yukon Gold potatoes not only makes for visually appealing fries but also indicates their high quality, making them a standout choice for air-fried French fries.
How Should You Prepare Potatoes for Optimal Air Fryer Results?
To achieve optimal results when air frying potatoes for French fries, it’s important to consider the type of potato and how they are prepared.
- Russet Potatoes: These are often considered the best choice for French fries due to their high starch content, which contributes to a fluffy interior when cooked. Their skin becomes crispy in the air fryer, creating a desirable contrast to the soft inside.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Known for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, Yukon Golds are versatile but can also yield delicious fries. They have a medium starch content, which allows for a good balance between crispiness and tenderness.
- Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier alternative, sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor and a slightly different texture compared to regular fries. They are lower in starch and higher in sugar, which can result in a caramelized exterior when air-fried, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Preparation Method: After choosing the right type of potato, cutting them into uniform sticks is crucial for even cooking. Rinsing the cut potatoes in water helps to remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries by preventing them from sticking together during the frying process.
- Soaking Time: Soaking the cut potatoes in water for at least 30 minutes can significantly improve crispiness. This step helps further remove starch and allows the fries to absorb water, which creates steam during cooking, resulting in a fluffier inside.
- Seasoning and Oil: Lightly coating the potatoes in oil before air frying is essential for achieving that golden-brown color and crispy texture. Using seasonings such as salt, pepper, or garlic powder enhances flavor while keeping the preparation simple.
What Is the Best Method for Cutting Potatoes for French Fries?
Best practices for cutting potatoes include using a sharp knife or a French fry cutter for consistency, soaking the fries to reduce starch, and experimenting with seasoning to enhance flavor. Proper storage of cut potatoes in cold water can prevent browning and maintain freshness until you’re ready to cook them. Ultimately, the combination of the best potato varieties, appropriate cutting techniques, and air frying methods can lead to delicious, healthier French fries.
Why Is Soaking Potatoes Crucial Before Cooking in an Air Fryer?
Soaking potatoes before cooking them in an air fryer is crucial because it helps to remove excess starch, which can lead to a crispier texture and improved flavor in the final product.
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, soaking potatoes in water for a period of time can significantly reduce the starch content on the surface of the potatoes, which directly contributes to a less gummy texture when fried (Huang et al., 2016). The reduction of surface starch allows for better moisture evaporation during cooking, which is essential for achieving that desired crispiness associated with French fries.
The underlying mechanism involves the physics of heat transfer and moisture retention. When potatoes are soaked, the cells absorb water, which helps to hydrate them and leads to a more uniform cooking process. When these hydrated potatoes are then exposed to the hot air of the air fryer, the moisture inside the potato expands and creates steam. This steam helps cook the inside of the potato while the removal of surface starch facilitates faster moisture evaporation, resulting in a crispier exterior. This dual action is crucial for achieving the best texture, particularly in air-fried French fries where the goal is to replicate the crunchiness of deep-fried versions without excess oil.
What Techniques Can Help Achieve Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer French Fries?
To achieve perfectly crispy air fryer French fries, several techniques can be employed:
- Choosing the Right Potatoes: Selecting the best potatoes for French fries is crucial; starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho potatoes are ideal because they yield a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior.
- Soaking the Potatoes: Soaking cut potatoes in water for at least 30 minutes helps remove excess starch, which can lead to crispier fries by preventing them from becoming gummy during cooking.
- Cutting Consistently: Cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes ensures even cooking, allowing all fries to achieve the same level of crispiness without some being undercooked or overcooked.
- Using Minimal Oil: While an air fryer requires less oil than traditional frying methods, using a light coating of oil can enhance crispiness; around one to two tablespoons of oil sprayed or tossed on the fries is sufficient.
- Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer before adding the fries can help jumpstart the cooking process, ensuring that the fries begin to crisp as soon as they enter the hot air circulation.
- Shaking During Cooking: Shaking the basket every few minutes during the cooking process encourages even browning and prevents the fries from sticking together, resulting in a more uniform texture.
- Adjusting Cooking Time and Temperature: Cooking at a higher temperature (around 375°F to 400°F) for a shorter time can yield crispier fries; monitoring the fries closely towards the end of cooking ensures they don’t burn while achieving that perfect crunch.