why are my air fryer fries not crispy

Air fryer French fries come out perfectly crispy every time! Made with russet potatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt, this recipe is quick and simple — to be served with your favorite sauces.

Making air fryer French fries is an art form. I remember the first time I tried to do it. I was a novice air fryer owner and didn’t know about the importance of leaving a little bit of breathing room in the basket. The results were a half-burnt, half-undercooked mess. Oh, how I’ve learned since then!

These days I feel like an air fryer expert. I no longer make common mistakes and I know exactly what quantities to put in the basket for the best results. I want to impart some of my air fryer wisdom to all of you! One good recipe to start with is air fryer French fries.

They are made with fresh potatoes, and the flavor and texture are just perfect. If you love fries, but don’t want to deal with all of the excess oil that comes with traditional recipes, this is the perfect side dish for you.

It’s essential that you spread the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and that you leave a little space between each one. If they’re too crowded, the potatoes will steam inside the air fryer, and they won’t get crispy. In order to give them adequate space, you’ll likely need to work in batches.
why are my air fryer fries not crispy

How To Make Air Fryer French Fries

A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

STEP ONE: Before you get started, fill a medium-sized bowl halfway with cold water. Then, peel the potatoes if you like (optional) and cut them into ¼-inch slices.

I like to use a Y-peeler to peel the skin off since it’s easier to hold in my hand.

STEP TWO: As you slice the potatoes, add them to the water bowl to soak. Drain and then refill the bowl. Mix the potatoes around using the same motion you would use on a salad.

Drain the bowl again, and repeat the process 5-6 times until the water runs clear. This process removes any excess starch and will give you crispy results every time.

why are my air fryer fries not crispy

STEP THREE: Dry the potatoes and bowl with a paper towel, then add the potatoes back to the bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and add the salt. Mix to combine.

why are my air fryer fries not crispy

STEP FOUR: Cook your fries in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes and then again at 400 degrees F for 15-18 minutes. Shake the air fryer basket every 5 minutes. Remove them from the basket when they’re done and serve with your favorite dipping sauces!

Why Do You Soak Potatoes in Water Before Air Frying?

Potatoes naturally have a lot of starch in them. By rinsing and draining and repeating the process several times, you can remove it.

Your French fries will crisp up really nicely without all of that excess starch. Follow my instructions above or feel free to allow your potatoes to soak for an hour. Both methods work!

Big Mistakes Everyone Makes When Cooking Fries In An Air Fryer

FAQ

Why are French fries soggy in air fryer?

Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can cause the fries to cook unevenly and become soggy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook your fries in batches to achieve the best results. Once your fries are spread out in a single layer, you’re ready to start cooking them.

How do you crisp up French fries in an air fryer?

Using an air fryer is an excellent and easy way to give your fries that fresh-from-the-fryer crunch. Simply set your air fryer to 350 degrees, then place your leftover fries in a single layer in the fryer basket. Heat them for three to five minutes or until they reach your desired crispiness.

Why aren t my potatoes crispy in the air fryer?

Tips for crispy air fryer potatoes: — Leave the skin on. If you peel your potatoes, they won’t be nearly as crispy—the oiled skin gives the delicious crispy bite with these taters. — Preheat your air fryer.

Why is my air fryer not getting things crispy?

Dry the outside of the food properly before you add oil. Do not use too much oil, as this will make the food less crispy and more fattening. Meat or poultry can be lightly brushed with oil or marinated to get the crispiest results.

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