Summer is the perfect time for outdoor dining, and nothing beats a batch of crispy, golden fries to complement your barbecue or picnic. The Ninja Air Fryer makes it easy to prepare homemade fries that are crisp on the outside and tender inside, all without excess oil.
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create perfect fries using your Ninja Air Fryer, and impress family and friends with your summer cooking skills.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja Air Fryer
- ✔ Dimensions: Approx. 14 x 12 x 14 inches
- ✔ Weight: 15 lbs
- ✔ Warranty: 1-year limited

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.
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Preparing Your Ingredients
Start with fresh potatoes—russet or Yukon Gold work well for fries. Wash and peel them if desired, then cut into evenly-sized sticks to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use about 4 lbs of potatoes for a batch that fits comfortably in the 5 QT capacity.
- Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, helping them crisp better.
- Pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel to ensure they crisp up in the air fryer.
Seasoning and Prepping for Air Frying
Once your fries are dry, toss them in a bowl with a little olive oil—around 1-2 tablespoons—to help with browning. Add your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for a summer-inspired twist.
Spread the fries evenly in the nonstick basket and crisper plate of your Ninja Air Fryer, making sure not to overcrowd them for optimal crispiness.
Cooking the Fries
Set your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F. Cook the fries for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing the fries halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning, adjusting the time slightly if needed based on your preferred crispiness.
Serving and Tips for Summer Fun
Once cooked, transfer the fries to a serving dish and sprinkle with a little extra salt or your favorite herbs. Serve hot with your summer dips like aioli, ketchup, or spicy mayo.
For an extra summer touch, toss the fries with fresh chopped herbs or a squeeze of lemon before serving. Pair with grilled burgers or as a side for your outdoor feast.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Air Fryer

The Ninja Air Fryer simplifies summer cooking with its 5 QT capacity and versatile 4-in-1 functions. It produces crispy fries with less oil, perfect for outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Pros:
- Cooks up to 4 lbs of fries at once
- Nonstick basket and crisper plate for easy cleaning
- Versatile 4-in-1 functions: air fry, roast, reheat, dehydrate
Cons:
- Limited to 400°F max temp
- Requires pre-soaking potatoes for best results
- Size may be bulky for small kitchens
Best for: Home cooks who want quick, crispy fries and versatile kitchen appliances
Not ideal for: Those seeking ultra-high temp frying or very small kitchens
Bottom line: A versatile, easy-to-use air fryer perfect for crispy summer fries and more.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.