Summer afternoons are perfect for poolside snacks, and nothing beats a batch of crispy fries fresh from the air fryer. The Ninja Air Fryer makes it simple to whip up tasty, healthier fries without the excess oil.

Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to enjoy perfectly cooked fries that are crispy on the outside and tender inside, ideal for your summer gatherings or a quick treat after a swim.

Our top pick at a glance

BEST FOR SUMMER SNACKS
Ninja Air Fryer

Ninja Air Fryer

  • Weight: 10.3 lbs
  • Dimensions: 13.6 x 11.8 x 14.4 inches
  • Warranty: 1 year
Ninja Air Fryer with Air Crisp | 5 QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of Fries | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 400°F Max Temp | 1750 Watts | W/Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | Grey | AF141

Ninja Air Fryer with Air Crisp | 5 QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of Fries | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 400°F Max Temp | 1750 Watts | W/Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | Grey | AF141

AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Preparing Your Fresh Potatoes

Start by choosing the right potatoes—Russets work best for crispy fries. Peel and cut the potatoes into even sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch, then pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel. Drying is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness in the air fryer.

Seasoning and Prepping for the Air Fryer

In a bowl, toss the potato sticks with a tablespoon of vegetable oil to promote crispiness. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs and spices. For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder. Once coated, place the fries in the Ninja Air Fryer’s nonstick basket or crisper plate, spreading them out evenly to ensure proper air circulation.

Cooking with the Ninja Air Fryer

  • Set the Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F, which is the maximum temperature for perfect fry texture.
  • Cook the fries for about 15-20 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through for even cooking.
  • Check for your desired level of crispiness. If needed, add a few more minutes.

Once done, carefully remove the fries and serve immediately for the best crunch. Pair with your favorite summer dips or enjoy on their own!

Tips for Perfect Summer Fries

  • Ensure the fries are dried thoroughly before air frying to prevent sogginess.
  • Don’t overcrowd the basket—work in batches if needed to keep fries crispy.
  • Experiment with seasoning blends like Cajun or lemon pepper for a summer twist.
  • Use the dehydrate setting if making sweet potato or vegetable fries for added texture.

More Details on Our Top Picks

Ninja Air Fryer

Ninja Air Fryer
OUR VERDICT
Crispy, Healthy Fries Made Easy with Ninja Air Fryer
VIEW LATEST PRICE

The Ninja Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen tool perfect for summer snack prep. Its 5 QT capacity and adjustable temperature make it ideal for crispy fries, roasts, and more, all with less oil.

Pros:

  • Large 5 QT capacity
  • Quick & even cooking at 400°F
  • Nonstick basket for easy cleaning
  • Multi-function 4-in-1 design

Cons:

  • Can be bulky for small kitchens
  • Takes up counter space
  • Requires preheating for best results

Best for: Summer poolside snack lovers and casual cooks

Not ideal for: Those needing a compact appliance or specialized fryer

Capacity:
5 QT
Max Temp:
400°F
Power:
1750 Watts
Functions:
Air Crisp, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
Basket Type:
Nonstick
Color:
Grey

Bottom line: A versatile and efficient air fryer perfect for quick, crispy summer snacks.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.

You May Also Like

The 7 Most Important Questions to Ask Before Buying a Safety Cover

Learn the key questions to ask before buying a safety cover to ensure safety, durability, and proper fit for your pool.

Master the Perfect Summer BBQ with Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL

Learn how to make delicious smoked ribs this summer using the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker with our easy step-by-step guide.

Variable-Speed Pumps: Maximizing Energy Efficiency

Discover how variable-speed pumps optimize energy use through adaptive control, unlocking significant savings and efficiency—find out what else you can achieve.

Heaters 101: Heat Exchangers, BTUs, and Efficiency Basics

Navigating heaters involves understanding heat exchangers, BTUs, and efficiency—learn the essentials to choose and operate your heater safely and effectively.