These Air Fryer Copycat SmashBurger Fries are crispy, flavorful, and seasoned just like the ones from your favorite burger joint. Made with frozen or fresh-cut fries and a simple spice blend, they’re a quick and easy side that’s perfect for pairing with burgers, sandwiches, or dipping sauces—all without turning on the oven or deep fryer.
Craving those crispy, golden SmashBurger fries without the takeout?
This air fryer version delivers all the flavor and crunch you love—right from your kitchen. Lightly seasoned and perfectly crisped, these fries make the ultimate sidekick to any burger night. Best of all, they’re easy to whip up with just a few pantry staples and no deep frying required!
If you are looking for other easy Air Fryer Side Dish Recipes, some of my favorites are Air Fryer Mashed Potato Pancakes, Air Fryer Easy Potato Skin Recipe, and of course, Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
🍟 Crispy perfection without deep frying – All the crunch, none of the greasy mess.
🧂 That signature SmashBurger seasoning – Bold, savory flavor in every bite.
⏱️ Quick and easy to make – Ready in under 20 minutes using simple ingredients.
💰 Cheaper than takeout – Restaurant-style fries at a fraction of the cost.
🥔 Perfect side for any meal – Pairs with burgers, sandwiches, or your favorite dips.
Ingredients Needed For Smashburger Copycat Recipe
- Russet potatoes – Starchy and sturdy, ideal for crispy fries.
- Olive oil – Light coating for perfect golden air-fried texture.
- Garlic powder – Bold seasoning that adds savory depth.
- Onion powder – Mellow flavor that enhances the fries.
- Smoked paprika – Smoky and warm with a hint of spice.
- Kosher salt – Brings out the natural potato flavor.
- Fresh cracked black pepper – Adds mild heat and balance.
How To Make Copycat SmashBurger Fries
Step 1: Wash and peel (optional) 2–3 large russet potatoes. Cut them into thin, even matchsticks or shoestring-style fries for that SmashBurger look.
Step 2: Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and gives you crispier fries.
Step 3: Drain and pat the potatoes dry thoroughly with paper towels. Toss them with 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 16–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Remove fries and season with a little extra salt if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a Smashburger-style burger!
Laurie’s Tips & Tricks
- Soak those potatoes! A 30-minute soak in cold water helps remove starch and makes your fries extra crispy in the air fryer.
- Dry them well after soaking—excess moisture = soggy fries. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels.
- Thin cuts work best if you’re aiming for that classic SmashBurger-style crispness—aim for shoestring or matchstick size.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed to keep the fries from steaming.
- Finish with extra seasoning. Toss with a pinch more salt or smoked paprika right after air frying for a flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating Instructions
- Storing: Let fries cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid sealing them while hot, or they’ll turn soggy.
- Reheating: To bring back the crisp, reheat fries in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–6 minutes. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soft instead of crispy. For extra crunch, give them a quick spritz of oil before reheating.
Air Fryer Copycat SmashBurger Fries Recipe Faqs
Can I use frozen fries for this recipe? Yes! Frozen fries work well and save prep time. Just adjust the cook time slightly and skip the soaking step.
What type of potato is best for crispy fries? Russet potatoes are ideal because their high starch content helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking together? Make sure to dry your potatoes thoroughly after soaking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Shake or toss halfway through cooking.
Can I make these fries in a regular oven? Absolutely! Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, just cook in batches to ensure even crisping and avoid overcrowding.
More Copycat Smash Burger Recipes
Blackstone Mushroom Swiss Smash Burgers
Air Fryer SmashBurger Smash Tots
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Air Fryer Copycat SmashBurger Fries
Description
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, adjust to taste
Instructions
- Peel (optional) and cut russet potatoes into thin, even matchstick fries.
- Place fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and thoroughly pat fries dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
- Toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes.
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 16–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until fries are golden and crispy.
- Remove fries, season with extra salt if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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