Air Fryer Steak Fries with All Ration BBQ Rub

Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that barely qualify as recipes.

These air fryer steak fries are about as simple as it gets: grab a bag of frozen steak fries, cook them according to the package directions, and halfway through cooking, hit them with Burn Pit BBQ All Ration All Purpose BBQ Rub.

That’s it.

The air fryer gets the outside crispy, while adding the seasoning halfway through gives the rub something to stick to without scorching it during the entire cook. The result is an easy side dish that takes frozen fries from basic to BBQ-worthy.

Why Season the Fries Halfway Through?

You could season frozen fries before putting them into the air fryer, but we like adding the All Ration about halfway through.

By that point, the fries have started to heat up and release a little oil onto the surface. That helps the seasoning stick without needing to add extra oil. It also gives the rub plenty of time to cook onto the fries and develop flavor.

It's a simple trick that works with almost any frozen fry.

Air Fryer Steak Fries with All Ration BBQ Rub

Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: Follow package directions
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Depends on how hungry everyone is

Ingredients

• 1 bag frozen steak fries
• Burn Pit BBQ All Ration All Purpose BBQ Rub, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer if needed. Follow the directions on your package of frozen steak fries.

Add the frozen fries. Place the steak fries in your air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd them.

Start cooking. Cook according to the time and temperature listed on the package.

Season halfway through. When you reach the halfway point, pause the air fryer and give the basket a good shake.

Add the All Ration. Sprinkle the fries generously with All Ration All Purpose BBQ Rub and toss or shake to coat.

Finish cooking. Return the basket to the air fryer and finish cooking according to the package directions.

Serve immediately. Give them another light shake and add a little extra All Ration if you want a stronger BBQ flavor.

A Few Tips for Better Air Fryer Fries

Don't overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate around the fries to get them crispy. If you're cooking for a crowd, two batches will usually turn out better than one overloaded basket.

Shake them halfway through. You're already stopping to add the seasoning, so give the basket a good shake at the same time. This helps the fries cook more evenly.

Season to taste. Start with a lighter coating of All Ration. You can always add another dusting when the fries come out of the air fryer.

Eat them hot. Like most fries, these are at their best right out of the air fryer.

What to Serve with BBQ Steak Fries

These fries are an easy side for just about anything coming off the grill. Try them alongside burgers, brats, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs.

They're also a great option when you're making a quick weeknight meal and don't want to spend time cutting and soaking potatoes.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of frozen fry?

Absolutely. Waffle fries, crinkle-cut fries, wedges and even tater tots can work. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package and add the seasoning about halfway through.

Do I need to add oil?

Usually not. Most frozen fries already contain enough oil to crisp up in an air fryer and give the seasoning something to stick to.

Why not add the rub before cooking?

You can, but we've found that waiting until halfway through helps the seasoning stick to the warmed fries while reducing the amount that falls through the air fryer basket.

Can I add more seasoning after they're cooked?

Definitely. Taste one when they're finished and add another light dusting of All Ration if you want more flavor.

The Easiest Way to Upgrade Frozen Fries

Not every BBQ recipe needs a smoker, six hours of cooking and a long list of ingredients.

Sometimes it's just about taking something you're already making and making it better.

Frozen steak fries. Air fryer. All Ration.

Three simple things and you've got a side dish the whole family can crush.