Craving crispy, curly fries without the guilt? You’re in the right place! In this easy recipe, I’ll show you how to whip up tasty, air-fried curly fries using simple ingredients. With just a few steps, you can enjoy that crunchy texture and flavorful seasoning you love. Say goodbye to deep-fried grease and hello to a healthier snack option that tastes just as great! Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
I love using russet potatoes for curly fries. They have the right amount of starch. This helps to get that perfect crispy texture. The olive oil adds flavor and helps the spices stick.
Additional Ingredients for Extra Crispiness
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cornstarch makes a big difference. It absorbs moisture and helps the fries get super crispy. Add salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor.
Optional Additions
- Favorite dipping sauces (ketchup, aioli, spicy mayo)
Dipping sauces can make your meal even better. Ketchup is classic, but aioli or spicy mayo adds a fun twist. Choose what you love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
First, you need to wash and peel the russet potatoes. This step gets rid of dirt and skin. Next, cut the potatoes into spiral shapes. You can use a curly fry cutter or a spiralizer. If you don’t have one, cut them into thin strips. This way, you still get tasty fries.
Soaking and Drying
Now, soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This soaking helps remove extra starch. Less starch means crispier fries! After soaking, drain the fries. Pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are as dry as possible for the best crunch.
Mixing and Prepping
In a large bowl, combine olive oil with seasonings and cornstarch. Use garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss the dried fries in this mix until they are coated evenly. This ensures every fry gets flavor!
Air Frying
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it’s hot, place the curly fries in a single layer in the basket. You might need to do this in batches so they cook evenly. Cook them for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through. This helps them fry nicely. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. When they turn golden brown, they are ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To make your fries extra crispy, soak them first. Soaking removes excess starch. This step helps make the fries crunchy. Aim for at least 30 minutes in cold water. After soaking, drain the fries and dry them well. Use paper towels to remove moisture.
Next, add cornstarch to your seasoning mix. Cornstarch gives the fries a great crunch. It absorbs moisture and creates a crispy layer. Just one tablespoon is enough for a batch of fries.
Cooking Technique
When cooking, shake the basket halfway through. This action helps the fries cook evenly. It also makes sure every fry gets crispy. Set a timer to remind you at the halfway point.
If you have a lot of fries, cook in batches. This method ensures that each fry gets enough hot air. Cooking too many at once can lead to soggy fries. It’s better to take your time for great results.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun presentation, use a cone-shaped holder. You can also line a bowl with parchment paper. This adds a nice touch when serving.
Pair your fries with tasty dipping sauces. Ketchup is a classic choice. You can also try aioli or spicy mayo for something different. Each sauce adds great flavor to your crispy fries. Enjoy!

Variations
Seasoning Variations
You can change up the flavor of your curly fries. Try adding ranch seasoning or chili powder. These spices add a fun twist. Cajun seasoning gives a spicy kick, while Italian seasoning adds herbs. Mix and match to find your favorite.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you do not have an air fryer, you can bake your fries. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes. Turn them halfway to ensure even cooking. You can use fresh potatoes or frozen curly fries. Frozen fries need less prep time. They are also quick and easy.
Dietary Modifications
You can easily make this recipe vegan. Just skip the cornstarch and use a plant-based oil. For gluten-free options, check your spices. Most spices are gluten-free, but verify the labels. Enjoy your tasty fries while sticking to your diet!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your curly fries fresh, let them cool first. This step helps prevent sogginess. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can use glass or plastic containers. Make sure the lid seals tightly to keep out air. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
For the best results, reheat your curly fries in the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-8 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use a microwave. However, fries may become soft and lose crispiness. An oven can also work. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warm.
Freezing Options
You can freeze both cooked and uncooked curly fries. For uncooked fries, spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This helps prevent sticking. For cooked fries, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in freezer bags. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Cook frozen fries in the air fryer without thawing. Cook for 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for crispy results.
FAQs
What is the best potato for curly fries?
The best potato for curly fries is a russet potato. These potatoes have a high starch content, which makes them fluffy inside. This helps them get crispy on the outside when cooked. You can also try Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
How long do I need to preheat the air fryer?
You should preheat the air fryer for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the fries cook evenly and become crispy. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) before adding the fries.
Can I use a regular fryer instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can use a regular fryer to make curly fries. Just heat oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the curly fries in small batches until they are golden brown. This method will give you tasty results, but it uses more oil.
How can I make my curly fries more flavorful?
To make your curly fries more flavorful, try adding more spices. You can mix in some ranch seasoning or chili powder for a kick. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra taste. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite!
In this guide, we explored how to make delicious curly fries using russet potatoes, olive oil, and seasonings. Soaking the potatoes and using cornstarch ensures that your fries turn out extra crispy. We also discussed various cooking methods, serving suggestions, and how to store leftovers. Now, it’s time to experiment and enjoy your homemade curly fries. With simple tips and fun variations, you can create a tasty snack that everyone will love. Happy cooking!


