Oven Fries Recipe

There’s nothing more satisfying than crafting the ultimate homemade crispy potato fries, and I’m about to let you in on my all-time favorite recipe that turns simple potatoes into crispy, golden magic!

I enjoy taking plain russet potatoes and changing them into crispy oven fries with a delicious blend of olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. These oven fries are not only tasty but are also a healthier alternative to traditional fries.

They have less fat and more fiber. My secret ingredient?

Fresh parsley.

Oven Fries Recipe Ingredients

• Russet Potatoes: High in carbohydrates and fiber; perfect for crispy fries.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats; adds a rich, smooth flavor.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor; essential seasoning to taste.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic depth to fries.
• Paprika: Provides mild spice and vibrant color; rich in antioxidants.
• Black Pepper: Gives a gentle heat; improves digestion.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and color; rich in vitamins K and C.

Oven Fries Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make this Oven Fries Recipe

1. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to warm up, and get a large baking sheet ready with either parchment paper or aluminum foil.

2. Rinse and skin the russet potatoes, then slice them into sticks of a uniform size. They should be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

3. Put the potatoes that have been cut into a large bowl. Fill it with cold water and allow the potatoes to soak for a minimum of 30 minutes. This soaking removes excess starch and helps achieve a crispiness that one would hope to attain.

4. Remove the water from the potatoes and dry them thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

5. Reconstitute the potato-sticks in the bowl by adding the ingredients below. Stir them well enough so that they coat the sticks as evenly as possible.

6. Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly mixed with the oil and seasoning blend so that they are evenly coated.

7. Arrange the spiced potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet you prepared. Make sure not to overcrowd them.

8. In the preheated oven, bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes have passed, use a spatula to carefully flip each fry over.

9. Bake for an extra 15-20 minutes or until the fries are a golden brown and crispy.

10. Take it out of the oven, toss with fresh parsley, if you have it, and serve this hot dish right away.

Oven Fries Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large baking sheet
3. Parchment paper or aluminum foil
4. Vegetable peeler
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Large bowl
8. Measuring spoons
9. Spatula
10. Clean kitchen towel or paper towels

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?A: Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used, but fries made from Russet potatoes achieve the greatest level of crispiness.
• Q: How should I cut the potatoes?For optimal outcomes, slice the potatoes into sticks that are 1/4-inch thick.
• Q: Can I make these fries ahead of time?A: They’re best when served fresh, but you can heat them in a hot oven at 400° for 5-10 minutes.
• Q: How can I make the fries extra crispy?A: For 30 minutes, immerse the sliced potatoes in chilled water, then allow them to dry completely before baking.
• Q: Can I add other seasonings?A: For sure! Go ahead and toss in some chili powder, cayenne, or whatever herbs you like for an even bigger flavor boost.
• Q: How long do I bake them?A: Cook at 425 degrees for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness.
• Q: Is there a way to make them with less oil?A: Yes, use only 1-2 tablespoons of oil, and a non-stick baking sheet, to cut down on oil content.

Oven Fries Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Instead of russet potatoes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
Substitutes for Olive Oil: Vegetable oil or sunflower oil can be used as an alternative.
Salt: Instead of regular table salt, you can use sea salt or kosher salt for a different flavor and texture.
Garlic Powder: For a more powerful flavor, you can use granulated garlic or minced fresh garlic.
Paprika: For a smoky flavor, substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika, or use chili powder for some heat.

Pro Tips

1. Uniform Size Cutting When slicing the potatoes, aim for consistent thickness (around 1/4 to 1/2 inch). This ensures even cooking and helps all the fries become crispy at the same rate.

2. Don’t Skip Soaking Soaking the cut potato sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It helps remove excess starch, which is key to achieving that desired crispiness.

3. Thorough Drying After soaking, ensure the potato sticks are completely dry. This step helps the oil and seasonings adhere better and prevents steaming, which can make the fries soggy.

4. Proper Spacing When arranging the fries on the baking sheet, make sure they are in a single layer and not touching. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than baking, which can result in limp fries.

5. Even Flipping At the halfway point of baking, flip the fries carefully and try to position them so all sides get maximum exposure to heat. This promotes even browning and crispiness for the entire batch.