Oven-baked potato fries are a healthier, crispy, and delicious alternative to deep-fried French fries. This Oven-Baked Potato Fries Recipe uses minimal oil while still delivering perfectly crispy, golden fries with a tender inside. They’re easy to make and perfect for serving alongside burgers, sandwiches, or as a tasty snack on their own.
By using the right technique and seasoning, you can achieve restaurant-quality fries right in your oven. These fries are versatile and can be customized with different seasonings or dipping sauces, making them a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked Potato Fries Recipe
- Healthier Option: Baking the fries uses less oil than frying, making them a healthier choice.
- Crispy & Golden: With the right technique, you’ll achieve crispy, golden fries without a fryer.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or snacks.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite seasonings or spices to make these fries your own.
Key Ingredients for Oven-Baked Potato Fries
1. Russet Potatoes
- Russet potatoes are the best choice for fries because of their starchy texture, which results in crispy fries with a fluffy interior.
2. Olive Oil
- Olive oil helps crisp up the fries in the oven while adding a rich, slightly fruity flavor.
3. Salt
- A good sprinkle of salt enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes. You can also add other seasonings to suit your taste.
4. Seasonings (Optional)
- Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, or even herbs like rosemary or thyme can add extra flavor to your fries.
How to Make Oven-Baked Potato Fries
These oven-baked potato fries are simple to prepare and result in perfectly crispy fries. Here’s how to make them:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cut the Potatoes
- Scrub 3-4 large russet potatoes and cut them into thin, even strips (about 1/4-inch thick). Uniform size ensures that the fries cook evenly.
Step 3: Soak the Potatoes
- Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which makes the fries crispier when baked.
Step 4: Dry the Potatoes
- Drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. The drier the potatoes, the crispier the fries will be.
Step 5: Season the Fries
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried potato strips with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until they are evenly coated. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and any additional seasonings you like (e.g., 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1/2 teaspoon paprika) and toss again to coat.
Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Step 7: Bake the Fries
- Bake the fries for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.
Step 8: Serve
- Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with a little extra salt if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing.
Tips for Making the Best Oven-Baked Potato Fries
1. Soak the Potatoes
- Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, which is key to getting crispy fries.
2. Dry Thoroughly
- After soaking, dry the potatoes well before baking to ensure they get crispy in the oven.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan will cause the fries to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy fries.
4. Flip Halfway
- Flipping the fries halfway through the baking time ensures they get evenly crispy on all sides.
5. Season After Baking
- If you want to add more seasoning, do so after the fries come out of the oven to avoid burning the spices.
Recipe Variations
1. Garlic Parmesan Fries
- Toss the baked fries with minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley for a savory, cheesy twist.
2. Spicy Cajun Fries
- Season the fries with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper for a spicy kick.
3. Sweet Potato Fries
- Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes and follow the same steps for a naturally sweet and crispy alternative.
4. Herb Fries
- Toss the fries with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic and flavorful variation.
FAQs: Oven-Baked Potato Fries
1. Why Are My Fries Not Crispy?
- If your fries aren’t crispy, it could be because they weren’t dried thoroughly enough after soaking, or the oven temperature wasn’t high enough. Make sure to bake at 425°F and spread the fries out in a single layer.
2. Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
- Yes! While russet potatoes are best for their starch content, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.
3. How Do I Store Leftover Fries?
- Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a 400°F oven to regain their crispiness.
4. Can I Freeze Homemade Fries?
- Yes! You can freeze uncooked fries after cutting and drying them. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen at 425°F, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
[tasty-recipe id=”3090″]