Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a healthy alternative to deep frying. The Blackstone Air Fryer is a powerful air fryer that can cook fries and other foods quickly with little to no oil. But how long exactly does it take to cook fries in the Blackstone Air Fryer?
What is the Blackstone Air Fryer?
The Blackstone Air Fryer is a countertop convection oven that uses rapid hot air circulation to cook foods. It has a large 3.5 quart capacity and can reach temperatures up to 400°F. The Blackstone Air Fryer has 1800 watts of power and dual heating elements to cook food quickly and evenly.
The Air Fryer has a digital touch screen with 6 presets – warm, root vegetables, poultry, steak, shrimp, and fish. It also has adjustable time and temperature controls so you can customize cooking. The basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Factors That Affect Cook Times
There are a few key factors that affect how long fries take to cook in the Blackstone Air Fryer:
- Type of potato – Waxy potatoes like Russets will take longer than starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold
- Cut of fries – Thinner fries will cook faster than thicker steak fries
- Amount of fries – Smaller batches will cook faster than overloaded baskets
- Preheating – Preheating the Air Fryer reduces cook time
Taking these factors into account allows you to adjust cook times and get perfect fries every time.
Standard French Fry Cook Times
For average skinny fries cut about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, the approximate Blackstone Air Fryer cook times are:
- 1 – 2 cups of fries: 18-22 minutes at 370°F, shaking halfway
- 2 – 3 cups of fries: 22-28 minutes at 370°F, shaking halfway
Thicker cuts or wedge fries may take 25-35 minutes. Smaller amounts of shoestring fries take less time, around 15 minutes. Adjust time up or down a few minutes based on the size and amount of your fries.
Tips for the Best Fries
Follow these tips to get crispy, golden fries from your Blackstone Air Fryer every time:
- Soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.
- Toss fries with 1-2 Tbsp oil before air frying for crisping.
- Use the basket and crisper plate in the fryer for maximum crispness.
- Preheat fryer for 5 minutes before adding fries.
- Cook at 370°F, shake basket halfway through.
- Check frequently at end of cook time to avoid burning.
Cooking Frozen Fries
The Blackstone Air Fryer can also cook frozen fries with excellent results. Cook times for frozen fries are:
- 1 – 2 cups frozen fries: 15-18 minutes at 400°F
- 2 – 3 cups frozen fries: 18-22 minutes at 400°F
Add 3-5 minutes for larger cuts like steak fries. Shake the basket occasionally to prevent sticking. Brush frozen fries with oil before cooking for extra crispness if desired.
Fry Cooking Chart
Use this handy Blackstone Air Fryer fries time chart as a guide for cooking fries:
| Fry Type | Amount | Cook Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh 1/4″ fries | 1 – 2 cups | 18-22 minutes | 370°F |
| Fresh 1/4″ fries | 2 – 3 cups | 22-28 minutes | 370°F |
| Fresh thick fries | Any amount | 25-35 minutes | 370°F |
| Frozen fries | 1 – 2 cups | 15-18 minutes | 400°F |
| Frozen fries | 2 – 3 cups | 18-22 minutes | 400°F |
Monitoring Fry Doneness
It’s important to check fries frequently as they cook to get the perfect amount of crispness on the outside while still fluffy on the inside. Look for these signs of doneness:
- Color – Fries should be golden brown, not pale or dark brown
- Texture – Fries feel tender when pierced with a fork or toothpick
- Crispness – Exteriors are crisp while interiors are fluffy
Immediately remove done fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Allow fries to cool for a few minutes before salting or they’ll absorb too much.
Serving Suggestions
Your hot, crispy fries right from the Blackstone Air Fryer are ready to serve! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or Cajun seasoning
- Top with ketchup, ranch dressing, cheese sauce, chili, or gravy for loaded fries
- Pair with burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or chicken tenders
- Dip in sauces like barbecue, buffalo, or honey mustard
Cleaning the Fryer
It’s important to properly clean the Blackstone Air Fryer after cooking fries to prevent any burnt on oil or residue. Follow these tips:
- Unplug and allow fryer to cool completely before cleaning.
- Remove basket, plate, and crumb tray. Wash in hot soapy water.
- Wipe down the fryer interior with a soft cloth.
- Do not immerse the fryer body in water.
- Avoid steel wool or abrasive cleaners on the basket or pan.
For stubborn residue, fill the fryer basket with hot water and detergent and let soak before scrubbing clean. Dry all parts thoroughly before replacing in the fryer.
Conclusion
The Blackstone Air Fryer can cook crispy french fries in just 15-35 minutes depending on the type and amount. For average fries, cook at 370°F shaking halfway with these approximate times:
- 1 – 2 cups fries: 18-22 minutes
- 2 – 3 cups fries: 22-28 minutes
Adjust cook times up or down based on cut, frozen vs fresh, and amount of fries. Follow tips for soaking and oiling fries, preheat fryer, and frequently check doneness for best results. The Blackstone Air Fryer makes quick and easy restaurant-quality fries at home.