Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, crispy snacks like homemade fries. The Ninja Air Fryer makes it simple to create delicious, healthier fries without the excess oil, perfect for barbecues and poolside snacks.
Follow this step-by-step recipe to whip up a batch of crispy fries in your Ninja Air Fryer, and get tips to make them even better!
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: 11 pounds
- ✔ Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 13 inches
- ✔ Warranty: 1 year
Ninja Air Fryer Pro, 5 Qt, 4-in-1, Grey, AF141
- Air Crisp Technology: 400°F superheated air for crispy results
- 4-in-1 Functionality: Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Large Capacity: 5 QT basket fits up to 4 lbs of fries
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Preparing the Potatoes
Choose the right potatoes—Russet potatoes are ideal for crispy fries due to their high starch content. Wash and peel your potatoes if preferred, then cut them into evenly sized sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Rinse the cut fries in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry thoroughly with a clean towel. This step helps achieve maximum crispiness in the air fryer.
Seasoning and Prepping for Air Frying
In a mixing bowl, toss the fries with a tablespoon of oil—olive or vegetable oil works well—and season with your favorite spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika. Ensure all fries are evenly coated for uniform flavor.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F for a few minutes. Place the seasoned fries into the nonstick basket, spreading them out in a single layer for even air circulation.
Cooking the Fries
Set the Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F and cook for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket or toss the fries halfway through cooking to promote even crisping. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning.
Once golden and crispy, carefully remove the fries from the basket. Serve immediately with your favorite summer dips or alongside grilled burgers and hot dogs.
Tips for Perfect Summer Fries
- Soak cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, helping them crisp better.
- Do not overcrowd the basket—air needs space to circulate for crispy results.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on the thickness of your fries and your preferred crispiness.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs or a dash of vinegar before serving.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Air Fryer
The Ninja Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen gadget perfect for summer snacking. Its 5 QT capacity and 400°F max temp make it easy to whip up crispy fries in minutes, with less oil and mess.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to use
- Makes crispy fries with less oil
- Large 5 QT capacity fits up to 4lbs of fries
- Multi-functional: air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate
Cons:
- Limited to small batch sizes for very crispy results
- Requires preheating for best results
- Some seasoning may stick less evenly
Best for: Summer BBQs, poolside snacks, quick side dishes
Not ideal for: Large groups or batch cooking for parties
Bottom line: A reliable and versatile air fryer perfect for making crispy summer snacks quickly and easily.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
