Golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned, these baked fries deliver all the satisfaction of deep-fried versions without the extra oil. The combination of a crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior makes them irresistible. Using the right techniques ensures they turn out crispy every time with minimal effort, making this a go-to recipe for homemade fries.
Ingredient Breakdown
The key to achieving restaurant-quality baked fries starts with selecting the right ingredients. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which helps create that crispy exterior while keeping the inside light and fluffy. Vegetable oil or any high-heat cooking oil, such as avocado or canola oil, is essential for ensuring even browning and preventing dryness. The French fry seasoning blend consists of fine sea salt and black pepper, which enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth. Garlic and onion powders provide a savory boost, giving the fries an extra layer of complexity. The combination of these ingredients results in perfectly crispy, flavorful fries that taste just as good—if not better—than traditional deep-fried versions.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Prepping the Potatoes
Properly washing and cutting the potatoes into uniform sticks ensures even cooking. Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes removes excess starch, helping to achieve a crispier texture when baked.
Seasoning the Fries
For the best results, coat the fries evenly with oil and seasoning. Tossing them thoroughly ensures each fry gets a flavorful coating without becoming overly salty.
Baking in Stages
The initial baking phase at 375°F (190°C) allows the fries to cook through and develop structure. Raising the temperature to 425°F (218°C) in the second phase creates the perfect level of crispiness.
Tossing for Even Browning
Letting the fries bake undisturbed for the first 25 minutes helps them develop a crispy base. Tossing them two to three times during the final 10 to 15 minutes ensures all sides are evenly browned and crisped.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
The best type of baking sheet for crispy fries:
A non-stick or anodized aluminum baking sheet allows for even baking without sticking.
Why using a convection setting enhances crispiness:
Improved airflow helps create a crunchier exterior.
How cutting the fries to the right thickness affects cooking time:
Thinner fries cook faster and get crispier, while thicker fries remain softer inside.
The secret to achieving restaurant-style fries at home:
Soaking the potatoes, using the right amount of oil, and baking at high heat.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, but russet potatoes yield the crispiest results. Yukon golds will be creamier inside, while sweet potatoes require adjustments in cooking time.
Why do my fries turn out soft instead of crispy?
Too much moisture or crowding on the baking sheet can prevent them from crisping up.
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can cut and soak them overnight, then dry and bake when ready.
Do I need to flip the fries while baking?
Tossing them in the final minutes helps ensure even crisping.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Dipping Sauces: Classic ketchup, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or cheese sauce enhance the flavor.
Perfect Pairings: These fries are best served with burgers, grilled chicken, or sandwiches for a complete meal.
Garnishing Ideas: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of truffle oil for extra flair.
Homemade baked fries are a game-changer—crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Experimenting with different seasonings and cooking techniques allows for endless variations. Once you master this foolproof method, you’ll never go back to store-bought fries again.
Ingredients
French Fries
1 pound (450g) russet potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil or any high-heat cooking oil
1 ½ teaspoons French fry seasoning (see recipe below)
French Fry Seasoning
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If your oven has a convection setting, use it without adjusting the temperature for better airflow and crisping.
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Use a large non-stick or anodized aluminum baking sheet for direct baking. If unavailable, line a regular baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Cut and Soak the Potatoes
Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water, then slice them into uniform sticks, approximately ¼ inch thick. Submerge the cut potatoes in cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. Drain and rinse well, then use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them completely dry. For a make-ahead option, soak the potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined.
Coat the Fries
After rinsing and drying the bowl used for soaking, place the fries back inside. Drizzle with three tablespoons of oil and sprinkle 1 ½ teaspoons of the prepared French fry seasoning. If using only sea salt, reduce the amount to ¾ teaspoon. Toss the fries thoroughly until evenly coated.
Initial Baking Stage
Arrange the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping. Bake undisturbed for 20 minutes to allow them to develop structure.
Increase the Heat for Crispiness
Raise the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Continue baking for another 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your preferred level of browning and crispness. If the fries are still pale and not crispy enough, leave them in the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keep a close watch during this stage.
Final Tossing and Crisping
Do not move the fries during the first 25 to 30 minutes of baking. Once they start browning, gently toss them to ensure even cooking. Repeat this tossing process two to three times within the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking, allowing all sides to crisp up evenly.
Serve and Enjoy
Once golden and crispy, remove from the oven and serve immediately for the best texture. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy the irresistible crunch of homemade baked fries!
Crispy Baked Fries Recipe
Ingredients
French Fries
- 1 pound 450g russet potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or any high-heat cooking oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons French fry seasoning see recipe below
French Fry Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If your oven has a convection setting, use it without adjusting the temperature for better airflow and crisping.
Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Use a large non-stick or anodized aluminum baking sheet for direct baking. If unavailable, line a regular baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Cut and Soak the Potatoes
- Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water, then slice them into uniform sticks, approximately ¼ inch thick. Submerge the cut potatoes in cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. Drain and rinse well, then use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them completely dry. For a make-ahead option, soak the potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
Prepare the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined.
Coat the Fries
- After rinsing and drying the bowl used for soaking, place the fries back inside. Drizzle with three tablespoons of oil and sprinkle 1 ½ teaspoons of the prepared French fry seasoning. If using only sea salt, reduce the amount to ¾ teaspoon. Toss the fries thoroughly until evenly coated.
Initial Baking Stage
- Arrange the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping. Bake undisturbed for 20 minutes to allow them to develop structure.
Increase the Heat for Crispiness
- Raise the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Continue baking for another 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your preferred level of browning and crispness. If the fries are still pale and not crispy enough, leave them in the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keep a close watch during this stage.
Final Tossing and Crisping
- Do not move the fries during the first 25 to 30 minutes of baking. Once they start browning, gently toss them to ensure even cooking. Repeat this tossing process two to three times within the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking, allowing all sides to crisp up evenly.
Serve and Enjoy
- Once golden and crispy, remove from the oven and serve immediately for the best texture. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy the irresistible crunch of homemade baked fries!
