The best frozen fries for your air fryer cost less than $3. Here’s what we found

There’s a specific kind of satisfaction in discovering that the expensive option isn’t actually better. I decided to find the best frozen fries for the air fryer by purchasing six bags of different brands and prices, and cooking them all consecutively under the same conditions. The results were not close. The bag that came in first place was the cheapest, at less than $3. They are widely available and are probably already on the shelves of your nearest grocery store.

At this point, we can agree that the air fryer has no equivalent for cooking frozen fries. It’s quick and the results are as good, if not better, than baking or frying. Plus, there’s no messy oil to clean up or painful oven preheating to endure.

While the powerful air fryer has emerged as the best way to crisp up a bag of frozen varieties for a meal accompaniment or party platter, far too many people succumb to common frying mistakes, such as an unbalanced potato-to-skin ratio, lack of seasoning, or a hint of freezer burn.

As a self-certified French fry expert, I’ve selected six of the most popular varieties purchased on Fresh Amazon for the ultimate potato stick taste test. Flavor will always reign supreme, but these fried tubers were also judged on their ability to cook in one of our all-time favorite appliances.

The bottom line: None of these potatoes were complete duds, but here’s how they ranked in my taste test and ranking.

Ranking the best frozen fries in an air fryer

It’s worth reiterating that there wasn’t a single option on this list that I wouldn’t eat. The taste test reminded us that the frozen fries were practically made for an air fryer, yielding a hot, crunchy, salty snack in less than 15 minutes.

As with any high-carb treat, some were better than others. Taste is subjective and one person’s Michelin star is another person’s fast food. But I can assure you that my palate has been waiting for this moment all my life and I stand by my final ranking.

6. Whole Foods Market 365 Organic Cord Cut Fries

In these fry’s defense, it’s arguably the healthiest of the bunch. It comes with no added salt (blasphemy) and is made from organic potatoes, which makes its McDonald’s fry appearance hilarious, but also disappointing and misleading.

If you prefer a crispier fry that you can scoop up by the handful, this fry may be for you. But for serial fans like me who also crave a little seasoning and more punch, these are duds and not worth the time, high price, or calories.

5. Ore-Ida Straight Fries

Ore-Ida’s lower ranking was definitely the biggest surprise to me. It’s one of the most recognizable brands, and yet I found this tater to be a little too mushy, with the stale flavor of leftover fries reheated the next day.

If I had to go back in time, I would leave them in the air fryer for a minute or two longer than the suggested cooking time, but I shouldn’t have to do that either. I’m a big believer in easy, mass-market foods that get it right the first time, so I have to worry less about my brain and more about my appetite.

4. Strong Roots Crinkle Fries

I’d be lying if I said I wanted this to succeed. Of all the shapes of fries, the crinkle cut isn’t the one that particularly excites me, because it reminds me of lunchtime in middle school, where I was most often bullied. But it was a pleasant surprise, boasting a very potato-forward flavor and ideal crunch.

They were a little too burnt around the edges due to inconsistent sizes, so consider cooking for the lower end of the suggested time range. That said, I wasn’t completely turned off by the character. It actually kind of enhanced the flavor and made up for the very obvious lack of sodium.

3. Checkers, Rally Seasoned Waffle Fries

Certainly, these had a head start thanks to their crave-worthy waffle shape and signature Checker’s/Rally’s seasoning. And while they were poised to sweep the competition away, they ended up placing a solid third place.

My only complaint was that they became a little too monotonous and clashed with my range of dips. Those who prefer fries without accompaniments will have found their new obsession. Those like me who aren’t satisfied with a fry alone will want to consider the gold and silver medalists.

2. Hand-Cut Fries Grown in Idaho

If your idea of ​​a perfect fry is golden, lightly coated, and powerfully crunchy, this is the one for you. Frankly, Grown in Idaho was my initial favorite until I went back to it for seconds (and thirds and quarters) and realized that its mouthfeel can be slightly off-putting for anyone who prefers something a little milder.

But it was really delicious and, oddly enough, had a delicious potato aftertaste that held up to the bold and spicy barbecue sauce. This, in itself, is an incredible feat as it is usually the condiment that leaves a lasting impression on the way down.

1. Cut Fries Direct From Amazon Grocery Store

While it pains me a little to award top honors to the corporate giant of our time, Amazon’s iteration took top honors. This fry was well balanced: seasoned, crispy and full of potato with flecks of earthy skin and the perfect size for dipping.

I didn’t find anything wrong with this fry, unlike every first date I’ve had in my life. It was my potato soul mate and has now earned a permanent place in my Amazon Grocery Store Rotation.

How to Air Fry French Fries

While instructions vary by brand, there are a few general tips to consider before tossing fries into an air fryer basket and hitting the power button:

• Do not overload the basket. They will turn to mush and/or stick together.
• Do not add oil. Most frozen fries come pre-fried. Extra oil will usually make them soggy.
• Cooking times will depend on the size of the fries. A small budget will obviously take less time than a steak. Follow the instructions on your bag and test to determine which option gives the best result.
• If you need more salt, apply it after cooking. Too much sodium will strip away much-needed moisture.
• Shake the basket well every five minutes. This will ensure even heat distribution and no burnt ends.

Learn more: Want crispy fries? Follow These 4 Steps to Perfect Potato Sticks