Are you a fan of crispy and crunchy waffle fries, but tired of the greasy mess that comes with deep-frying them? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! Cooking waffle fries in an air fryer is a healthier and hassle-free way to achieve that perfect golden brown texture. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to cook waffle fries in an air fryer.
1. Preparing the Waffle Fries
Before we get started, let’s talk about choosing the right type of waffle fries. While you can use any brand of frozen waffle fries, we recommend using thicker-cut fries to avoid them becoming too crispy or burnt.
Once you have your waffle fries, it’s time to season them. This step is entirely up to your preferences. You can go for the classic salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, paprika, or even parmesan cheese.
To season your fries, place them in a mixing bowl and toss them with your desired seasoning until evenly coated. Set them aside while we prepare the air fryer.
2. Preparing the Air Fryer
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. This will ensure that your air fryer is hot enough to cook your waffle fries to perfection.
Next, it’s time to prepare the basket or tray for the fries. If your air fryer comes with a basket, lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent the fries from sticking. Alternatively, if your air fryer has a tray, line it with parchment paper to avoid any mess.
Now that your air fryer is preheated and your fries are seasoned, it’s time to start cooking!
3. Cooking the Waffle Fries
Once your air fryer is preheated and your fries are seasoned, it’s time to start cooking! Place the seasoned waffle fries in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket, as this will result in uneven cooking.
Next, it’s time to set the temperature and time for cooking the fries. For waffle fries, we recommend cooking them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. However, cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fries and the strength of your air fryer.
To ensure even cooking, flip the fries halfway through the cooking time. This will give them a chance to cook evenly on both sides and achieve that perfect golden brown texture.
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to check for doneness. Use a fork or tongs to test the fries for crispiness and tenderness. If they’re not quite done, give them a few more minutes in the air fryer until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
4. Serving the Waffle Fries
Now that your waffle fries are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up! Waffle fries pair well with a variety of dips and sauces, including ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or even cheese sauce.
To serve, transfer the cooked waffle fries to a plate and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or other herbs for added flavor and presentation.
A few tips for serving and enjoying your waffle fries: serve them immediately after cooking to ensure they stay crispy, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and dips to find your perfect combination.
In conclusion, cooking waffle fries in an air fryer is a simple and healthy alternative to deep-frying. By following these easy steps, you can achieve that perfect golden brown texture and enjoy these tasty treats without the guilt. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your newfound air frying skills!