1 1/2 lb. russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
4 tsp. olive oil, divided
1 tsp. salt, divided
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper, divided
Nonstick spray
Ketchup and ranch dressing, for serving
Cut the potatoes into a french fry shape, about 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick. Place in a large bowl and cover by 1 inch with very hot water. Let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse the potatoes well under cold water. Transfer the potatoes to a sheet tray lined with paper towels and pat very dry.
Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl (if using the soaking bowl, rinse and dry it well). Drizzle with 2 teaspoons of oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the black pepper and toss well to coat. Transfer to an air fryer basket sprayed with nonstick spray and distribute evenly. Cook at 360°F for 15 minutes, turning with a rubber spatula halfway through and redistributing the fries evenly in the basket.
Return the potatoes to the mixing bowl and gently toss to coat with the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Return the potatoes to the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 12 more minutes, removing the basket and shaking well halfway through. Serve immediately with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauces.