Baked French Fries Recipe

Russet potatoes: These are the best potatoes for fries due to their high starch content and low moisture, which makes them crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Olive oil: This healthy fat helps the fries crisp up in the oven and adds a subtle flavor.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Garlic powder: Provides a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the potatoes.

Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a beautiful color to the fries.

To achieve perfectly crispy fries, make sure to soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before tossing them with olive oil and seasonings. This step helps to remove excess starch, which can prevent the fries from becoming soggy. After soaking, be sure to thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with a kitchen towel to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.

• russet potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweeter flavor and a different nutritional profile, including more fiber and vitamins.

• russet potatoes - Substitute with yukon gold potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes have a buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them a delicious alternative.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great substitute for baking.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a slight coconut flavor and is also stable at high temperatures.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile and contains trace minerals.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and a milder flavor, making it easier to control the seasoning.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and is less visually noticeable in the dish.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor profile to garlic.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor that can enhance the overall taste.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder provides a bit of heat and complexity, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the baked french fries to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled fries to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a container, place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any excess moisture.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator. The fries will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled baked french fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the fries are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the fries to a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date for reference.

• Store the fries in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

• To reheat frozen fries, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. No need to thaw before baking.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the baked french fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they regain their crispiness.

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add the fries in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Use an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C). Place the fries in the basket in a single layer and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• For a quick method, spread the fries on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness as well as other methods.

• Oven: Used to bake the fries at a consistent temperature of 425°F (220°C) to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for spreading the fries in a single layer, ensuring even cooking.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the fries from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the cut potatoes with olive oil and seasonings, ensuring they are evenly coated.

• Knife: Essential for peeling and cutting the russet potatoes into fry shapes.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for cutting the potatoes.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

• Spatula: Used to flip the fries halfway through the baking process to ensure even browning.

• Cooling rack: Allows the fries to cool slightly after baking, helping to maintain their crispiness.

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven while you prepare the potatoes to save time.

Use a mandoline: Slice the potatoes quickly and evenly with a mandoline slicer.

Soak the potatoes: Soak the cut potatoes in water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch and ensure crispiness.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and bake in batches to have extra fries ready for later.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Flip efficiently: Use a wide spatula to flip the fries quickly and evenly halfway through baking.