Crispy Oven Baked Fries

I was skeptical the first time someone told me oven fries could rival the deep-fried kind. But one rainy Tuesday, out of oil and craving something crispy, I gave it a shot. The smell of roasting potatoes filled the kitchen, and when I pulled them out—golden, crunchy, perfect—I never looked back.

I made these for my sister when she came over with her kids, and they devoured the entire tray before I could even plate the burgers. She kept asking what my secret was, and I just smiled. Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that look effortless but deliver every time.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: Their high starch content is the key to that fluffy interior and crispy exterior, so don't swap them out for waxy varieties.
• Olive oil: Just enough to coat and crisp without making them greasy, and it adds a subtle richness you won't get from spray oils.
• Sea salt: Flaky sea salt at the end makes all the difference, giving each bite a delicate crunch and clean flavor.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground adds a gentle heat that balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Garlic powder: Optional, but it brings a savory depth that makes these fries dangerously addictive.
• Smoked paprika: A hint of smokiness that tricks your taste buds into thinking these came off a grill.

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Get your oven hot at 220°C (425°F) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This setup prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Cut the Potatoes:

Wash and optionally peel your russets, then slice them into 1 cm thick sticks. Keeping them uniform ensures they all cook at the same rate.

Soak for Starch Removal:

Submerge the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to pull out excess starch. Drain well and pat them bone dry with a clean towel, moisture is the enemy of crispiness.

Season Generously:

Toss the fries in a large bowl with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure every piece is lightly coated.

Arrange in a Single Layer:

Spread the fries on your prepared sheets without overlapping. Crowding traps steam and leads to soggy fries, so give them space.

Bake and Flip:

Bake for 20 minutes, then flip each fry with a spatula and rotate the trays. Continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until they turn golden and crisp.

Finish with Sea Salt:

Pull them from the oven and sprinkle immediately with extra flaky sea salt. Serve hot and watch them disappear.

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There was a night last fall when I made these alongside roasted chicken, and my friend said they tasted better than any restaurant fries she'd had. That's when I realized this recipe had become my quiet kitchen win, the one I'd make again and again without ever getting bored.

How to Store and Reheat

Leftover fries lose their crunch in the fridge, but you can revive them by spreading them on a baking sheet and reheating at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes. They won't be exactly the same, but they'll still be miles better than microwave mush.

Flavor Variations to Try

I've tossed these with chopped rosemary and lemon zest right after baking for a bright, herby twist. You can also experiment with cajun seasoning, parmesan and truffle oil, or even a drizzle of honey and chili flakes if you're feeling adventurous.

Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces

These fries are perfect alongside burgers, grilled fish, or even a simple green salad. I love serving them with homemade aioli, but ketchup, spicy mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce all work beautifully.

• Try a garlic herb aioli made with mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
• For a spicy kick, mix sriracha into sour cream with a squeeze of lime.
• A classic ketchup and mustard combo never disappoints, especially with kids.

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Once you nail the technique, you'll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you need something simple, satisfying, and just a little bit special. It's proof that the best comfort food doesn't have to be complicated.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best for crispy fries?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, providing a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

→ How does soaking potatoes affect the fries?

Soaking removes excess starch, which helps fries maintain crispiness during baking.

→ Can spices be adjusted for different flavors?

Yes, seasonings like smoked paprika or garlic powder can be added or omitted to tailor the taste.

→ Is a convection oven preferable for baking these fries?

Using a convection or fan setting promotes even heat circulation, resulting in crispier fries.

→ What finishing touch enhances the flavor after baking?

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking brightens flavor and adds a pleasant crunch.