Baked French Fries Recipe

Russet potatoes: These are ideal for making fries due to their high starch content and low moisture, which helps achieve a crispy texture.

Olive oil: This healthy fat is used to coat the potatoes, helping them to crisp up in the oven while adding a subtle flavor.

Salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes.

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

Garlic powder: Provides a savory, aromatic touch that complements the other seasonings.

For extra crispy fries, soak the potato slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes before tossing them in olive oil and seasonings. This helps to remove excess starch, which can prevent them from becoming soggy during baking. Make sure to pat the potatoes dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel before coating them with oil and spices.

• 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 alternative for baking.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle coconut flavor and also has a high smoke point suitable for baking.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a different mineral content and a slightly different taste profile.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger flakes and can provide a different texture and flavor distribution.

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

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a bit of heat and complexity to the flavor profile.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the taste of the fries.

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

• Allow the baked french fries to cool completely at room temperature. 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 sheet of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

• For short-term storage, keep the container in the refrigerator. The fries will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. This step prevents them from clumping together.

• Once frozen, transfer the fries to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker reheating process.

• Avoid microwaving the fries as it can make them soggy. Instead, opt for oven reheating to maintain their crispiness.

• If you notice the fries have lost some of their crispiness, you can sprinkle a little olive oil over them before reheating to help restore their texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the leftover fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. This method helps to retain the crispy texture of the fries.

• Air Fryer Method: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method is quick and maintains the crunch.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the fries in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and crispy. This method adds a slight crispiness to the fries.

• Microwave Method: Place the fries on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. This method is the quickest but may result in softer fries. For better results, follow up with a quick broil in the oven for a minute or two to regain some crispiness.

• Oven: Used to bake the fries at a consistent temperature of 425°F (220°C).

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to spread the fries in a single layer for 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 to ensure even coating.

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

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

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

• Spatula: Useful for turning the fries halfway through the baking process to ensure they cook evenly.

• Cooling rack: Allows the fries to cool slightly after baking, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Pre-cut potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes in advance and store them in water in the fridge to save time on busy days.

Use a mandoline: A mandoline slicer can quickly and uniformly cut potatoes into fries, speeding up prep time.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven while you prep the potatoes to save time.

Batch seasoning: Mix the olive oil and spices in a large bowl first, then toss in the potatoes for even and quick coating.

Parchment paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and faster cooking.