Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel. Leaving the skin on, cut the potatoes into thick slices, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Try to keep the slices relatively uniform for even cooking.

Soak the Potato Slices (Optional): If you have extra time, soak the potato slices in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This step helps in achieving crispier fries. After soaking, drain and pat the potato slices dry with paper towels.

Season the Potato Slices: In a large mixing bowl, add the potato slices. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and toss them gently to coat the slices evenly. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder over the potatoes. Toss again until the potatoes are well coated with the seasoning.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes to ensure it's hot and ready for cooking.

Air Fry the Cottage Fries: Place the seasoned potato slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching or overcrowded. Cook the cottage fries in batches if necessary. Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the potato slices and the desired crispiness.

Check for Doneness: To check if the cottage fries are done, look for a golden brown and crispy exterior. You can also test for doneness by poking a fork or toothpick into a potato slice; it should be tender on the inside.

Serve and Enjoy: Once the cottage fries are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Serve them hot as a delicious side dish or a satisfying snack. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful air-fried cottage fries!