Baked French Fries

Craving the comfort of crispy fries without the guilt of deep-frying? Step into the world of Baked French Fries — a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

These oven-baked delights are seasoned to perfection with a blend of herbs and spices, delivering a crunchy texture on the outside and a soft, fluffy center.

Perfect as a side dish or a snack, Baked French Fries are a wholesome and delicious option for any day of the week.

Ingredients List

Creating the perfect Baked French Fries involves a careful balance of textures and seasoning. Here’s everything you’ll need for this crispy, oven-baked treat.

Fry Ingredients

• 4 medium russet potatoes, sliced into 1/4 inch sticks
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano

Required Kitchen Tools

Making Baked French Fries is simple, but having the right tools ensures even baking and maximum crispiness. Here are the essentials:

1. Sharp Chef’s Knife or Mandoline: For slicing the potatoes evenly and quickly.
2. Large Mixing Bowl: To toss the potato sticks with oil and seasonings uniformly.
3. Baking Sheet: A large, flat sheet pan provides ample space for the fries to crisp up without overcrowding.
4. Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheet and prevent sticking.
5. Cooking Spray: Helps achieve that golden, crisp exterior.
6. Tongs or Spatula: For flipping the fries halfway through baking to ensure they cook evenly.

Having these tools ready will streamline your preparation and help you achieve restaurant-style baked fries right from your oven.

Fry Preparation

Getting your fries crispy and flavorful starts long before they hit the oven. Follow these steps for perfect prep every time.

Soaking and Drying the Potatoes

To achieve the ideal crispiness, soaking the potato sticks in cold water is essential. This step helps remove excess starch, which can prevent the fries from browning and crisping up properly.

1. Soak:
   Place the sliced potato sticks into a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes. This helps release surface starch for crispier results.
2. Drain and Dry:
   After soaking, drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Any remaining moisture can cause the fries to steam instead of crisping.

Seasoning the Fries

Once your potatoes are dry, it’s time to coat them with oil and spices for maximum flavor.

1. Toss in a Bowl:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the potato sticks with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Toss everything together until the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

With your fries prepped and seasoned, you’re ready to move on to the baking process — the final step in transforming these humble potatoes into golden perfection.

Baking the Fries

Baking brings out the best in these fries, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Here’s how to get them just right.

Oven Temperature and Cooking Time

1. Arrange the Fries:
   Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overlapping—crowding the pan can lead to soggy fries instead of crispy ones.
2. Bake:
   Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the oven. Bake the fries at 450°F (230°C) for 35–40 minutes. Halfway through the baking time (around the 20-minute mark), flip the fries with a spatula or tongs to ensure even browning on all sides.
3. Final Crisp:
   If your fries aren’t as crisp as you’d like after 40 minutes, leave them in for an additional 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially towards the end.
4. Serve Immediately:
   Once golden and crispy, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool slightly on the pan for 2–3 minutes. Serve them while they’re still hot and crunchy.

Serving and Storage

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a snack, Baked French Fries are best when they’re hot, crisp, and paired with your favorite dips.

Suggested Dips and Garnishes

Enhance the flavor of your fries with these tasty accompaniments:

• Classic Ketchup: A timeless favorite for a tangy, sweet contrast.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy and rich, perfect for a gourmet twist.
• Spicy Mayo: Add a kick with sriracha or chipotle mixed into mayonnaise.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of cheese adds a savory finish.

How to Store and Reheat

While Baked French Fries are best enjoyed fresh, they can be stored and reheated with decent results.

• Storing: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To regain some of the crispiness, spread the fries on a baking sheet and reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soft and soggy.

Conclusion

Mastering Baked French Fries means enjoying a healthier version of a beloved classic without sacrificing taste or texture.

With simple ingredients, the right preparation, and a hot oven, you’ll create crispy, golden fries that are perfect for any occasion.

Experiment with seasonings and dipping sauces to make them uniquely your own, and remember—freshly baked fries are always a good idea. So go ahead, slice up those potatoes and turn your kitchen into your favorite fry spot!