How do you use a Ninja air fryer for beginners?

Start by unboxing and washing all removable parts. Place the crisper plate inside the basket, plug in the unit, and preheat for 3–5 minutes if your recipe calls for it. Load your food (lightly coated with oil if desired), select a cooking mode like Air Fry, set the time and temp, and hit start. Shake or flip your food halfway through for even crispiness.

How to use an air fryer for the first time?

Before cooking anything, run the air fryer empty at 375°F for 5 minutes to burn off factory residue. Then wash the basket and crisper plate. For your first cook, choose something simple like French fries or veggies. Always preheat (if required), apply a small amount of oil, and cook in a single layer for best results.

Where do you put oil in a Ninja air fryer?

You don’t pour oil into the air fryer itself. Instead, lightly coat the food with oil before placing it in the basket. Use a spritzer or toss food in oil by hand. Never spray aerosol directly into the basket—it can damage the non-stick coating. Always oil your food, not the fryer.

Does the Ninja air fryer need to preheat?

Yes, most models work better with a 3–5 minute preheat for optimal cooking. While some digital models include an auto-preheat function, you can always set the desired temp and time manually and run the air fryer empty to preheat. Skipping this step can result in uneven or soggy food.

How to use an air fryer for dummies?

Think of it like a tiny oven with turbo fans. Plug it in, preheat, put your food in the basket, select a mode like Air Fry or Roast, and start cooking. Shake halfway through and remove when golden brown. It’s seriously that easy—even if you’ve never cooked before.

What is the first thing I should cook in my air fryer?

Start with beginner-friendly items like French fries, chicken wings, garlic bread, or frozen taquitos. These foods are hard to mess up, cook quickly, and help you get familiar with cooking times and temperatures. Check out our Best Ninja Foodi Recipes for more inspiration.

How to Use a Ninja Air Fryer – The Best Beginner Guide (2025)

Name: Ninja Air Fryer French Fries (Crispy & Easy)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium russet potatoes; 1–2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil; Salt (to taste); Garlic powder (optional); Black pepper (optional)

Description

These Ninja Air Fryer French Fries are crispy, golden, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for beginners, this recipe delivers that classic fry crunch without deep frying—just a touch of oil and 20 minutes in your air fryer!

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium russet potatoes
1–2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil
Salt (to taste)
Garlic powder (optional)
Black pepper (optional)

Instructions

Peel and cut the potatoes into ¼-inch sticks.
Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch (optional for crispier fries).
Drain and pat the fries dry thoroughly with a towel.
Toss fries in a bowl with oil and seasonings until evenly coated.
Preheat the Ninja Air Fryer to 390°F for 3–5 minutes.
Add fries to the basket in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches).
Cook for 18–22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Soaking is optional but enhances crispiness.
Do not overcrowd the basket—fries need space for air circulation.
Add more seasoning after cooking if desired.
Use sweet potatoes for a healthy twist.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Snack
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Keywords: ninja air fryer fries, air fryer french fries, crispy air fryer fries, beginner air fryer recipe, how to use ninja air fryer, homemade fries