If you’ve ever craved the crispy, seasoned fries from Popeyes, you’re in luck! These Popeyes Cajun Fries are the perfect combination of crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor from the Cajun seasoning. Made in the air fryer, these fries are healthier than the traditional deep-fried version while still delivering that delicious crunch and spiciness you love. Whether you’re pairing them with a spicy chicken sandwich or enjoying them as a snack, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Air fryer
Knife and cutting board
Mixing bowl
Tongs or spatula (for flipping fries)
Measuring spoons

Overview of Ingredients

Russet Potatoes – Ideal for crispy fries. Their high starch content ensures a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior.
Olive oil – Helps the seasoning stick to the fries and contributes to crispiness.
Cajun seasoning – The key ingredient for that signature Popeyes flavor. It includes spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne for a nice heat.
Garlic powder & Onion powder – For added depth of flavor.
Salt – Enhances the flavor of the fries.
Black pepper – For a bit of kick and seasoning balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into fries or wedges, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Try to keep them as uniform as possible for even cooking.
Soak the Fries (Optional but Recommended):
- Place the cut fries in a large bowl of water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and results in crispier fries.
- Drain the water and pat the fries dry with a towel.
Season the Fries:
- In a mixing bowl, toss the fries with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss again until the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Fries:
- Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, or until golden brown and crispy. If you like them extra crispy, cook for a few more minutes.
Serve:
- Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and season with a little extra salt if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

Recipe Tips

Uniform Cutting: Try to cut the fries into even sizes to ensure they cook uniformly.
Crispier Fries: If you want extra crispy fries, you can spray a bit of olive oil on top of the fries halfway through the cooking process.
Soaking: Soaking the fries in water is optional, but it makes a huge difference in getting the fries crispier.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer spicier fries, you can add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.

What to Serve with Popeyes Cajun Fries

These Cajun fries are perfect as a side dish to fried chicken, sandwiches, or even as a snack on their own. Try them with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo. They also pair wonderfully with a cold drink to balance out the spiciness.

Ingredients:

2 large russet potatoes
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
2-3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into thin fries or wedges. Soak the fries in water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch for extra crispiness. After soaking, pat the fries dry with paper towels.
Season the Fries: Toss the fries in a large bowl with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and salt, then toss again to coat the fries thoroughly.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Air Fry the Fries: Place the seasoned fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches if they don’t fit all at once. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, or until the fries are golden and crispy.
Serve: Once done, remove the fries from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other potatoes besides Russet?
A: Russet potatoes are ideal for fries due to their high starch content, but Yukon gold or other starchy potatoes can also work. Just keep in mind the texture might vary.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a regular oven?
A: Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back the crispiness.

Enjoy these crispy, flavorful Popeyes Cajun Fries made in the air fryer! Perfectly spiced with just the right amount of crunch, they’re an irresistible snack or side dish that’ll become a family favorite.