Name: Baked French Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 cups water (for boiling); 2 cups distilled white vinegar; 0.25 cup kosher salt (plus more for seasoning); 4 large russet potatoes (skin on, scrubbed, cut into fries shape); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 6 tablespoons vegetable oil; chopped parsley (for garnishing)

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There’s something undeniably tempting about a plate of Baked French Fries fresh from the oven. I remember the first time I made them at home; the aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. It was a chilly evening, and all I wanted was a warm, comforting snack. I took some russet potatoes, a bit of salt, and some vegetable oil, and transformed them into crispy, golden fries that are healthier than their fried counterparts. This dish quickly became a family favorite, perfect for movie nights or as a side dish with burgers. The joy of biting into a homemade fry that’s both fluffy inside and crispy outside is simply unmatched.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What We Adore About This Baked French Fries

Healthier Option

One of the best parts about Baked French Fries is that they are significantly healthier than traditional fried fries. By baking instead of frying, we cut down on excess fat and calories while still achieving that satisfying crunch. It’s a wonderful guilt-free treat!

Simple Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients—potatoes, salt, vinegar, and oil—you can whip up a delicious side dish. You don’t need fancy spices or complicated methods; just the basics that you likely have on hand.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual Friday night dinner or a special gathering, Baked French Fries are versatile enough to fit any occasion. You can serve them as a side with various entrées, or enjoy them as a standalone snack with your favorite dips.

Fun to Make

I love involving my family in the cooking process. Making these fries is an excellent way to engage everyone in the kitchen. Kids can help with washing and cutting the potatoes (with supervision), and everyone can join in on seasoning and tossing them before they hit the oven.

Customization

The recipe is also highly customizable. You can add your favorite seasonings or dips, like garlic powder or paprika, to give them a personal touch. You can even switch up the garnish with fresh herbs for a more sophisticated flavor.

Golden Crispiness

Finally, the end result—a crispy, golden batch of fries—is so satisfying. The perfect crunch and the way they pair with a variety of dips make these Baked French Fries a hit every time.

What Goes Into Baked French Fries

When it comes to making Baked French Fries, the ingredients are straightforward yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful taste and texture we all love. The key players here are russet potatoes, which are starchy and yield the best fries, and vinegar, which helps to enhance the overall flavor.

6 cups water, for boiling – Essential for creating the perfect texture before baking.
2 cups distilled white vinegar – Adds a subtle tang that elevates the flavor of the fries.
1/4 cup kosher salt, plus more for seasoning – This is key for seasoning the fries, both during boiling and after baking.
4 large russet potatoes, skin on, scrubbed, cut into fries shape – The primary ingredient for our fries, delivering that fluffy interior.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Additional seasoning to enhance the flavor perfectly.
6 tablespoons vegetable oil – Helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
chopped parsley, for garnishing – Adds a fresh touch and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Baked French Fries

Making Baked French Fries is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying perfectly crispy fries. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that desirable crispiness.
In a large pot, add the water, vinegar, and kosher salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. This boiling step will help us create the ideal texture for the fries.
Line two baking sheets with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. This will ensure your fries are crispy.
Once the water is boiling, add the potatoes to the pot. Boil them gently for about 8 minutes. You want them to be tender but not falling apart.
After 8 minutes, carefully remove the potatoes using a slotted spoon. Be gentle so they don’t break. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheets in a single layer.
Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Let them cool for a few minutes while you prep the next step.
In a large bowl, toss the cooled potatoes with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This coating will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Add the remaining oil to your baking sheets, using 2 tablespoons on each sheet. Make sure to spread it evenly.
Heat the baking sheets in the oven for 5 minutes. This step is essential to getting that golden brown color.
Remove the heated sheets from the oven and quickly divide the coated potatoes between them in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the underside of the fries turns brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them!
Once the first side is done, remove the baking sheets from the oven. Gently turn the fries over and bake for another 10 minutes. This will ensure both sides are equally crispy.
After baking, remove from the oven, season with additional salt if desired, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing the Right Potatoes: For the best fries, opt for starchy russet potatoes. They yield a light, fluffy interior.
Boiling Technique: Boiling the potatoes before baking helps to cook them through and make them crispier when baked.
Oil Temperature: Make sure the baking sheets are hot before adding the potatoes. This helps in achieving that perfect golden crust.
Don’t Overcrowd: Space the fries out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
Season After Baking: Season the fries right after baking for maximum flavor, as they absorb salt better when hot.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Baked French Fries turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips to follow.

Storage: Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked fries after boiling and drying them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve your Baked French Fries with a side of homemade ketchup or aioli for an elevated experience.
Cooking Time Adjustments: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust cooking times. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.
Uniform Size: Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Thin fries will cook faster than thicker ones.

How to Enjoy Baked French Fries

Now that you’ve mastered making Baked French Fries, let’s explore how to serve and enjoy them!

As a Side Dish: These fries make a wonderful side for any main dish, such as grilled chicken or fish, adding a crispy touch to the plate.
Casual Gatherings: Serve them at gatherings like game nights or family get-togethers; they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Fuel for Movie Nights: Enjoy them while watching your favorite films; they’re the perfect snack for binge-watching sessions.
Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh herbs or spices to elevate your fries—like rosemary or parmesan for extra flavor.
Seasonal Dishes: Pair with seasonal dishes; these fries go great with summer barbecues or winter feasts.

FAQ

To achieve crispier fries, ensure you’re adequately drying the potatoes after boiling. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! You can also try cutting your fries thinner, as thinner fries cook faster and tend to crisp up better. Finally, make sure there’s enough space on your baking sheets; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking.

While russet potatoes are ideal for their high starch content, you can experiment with other types like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. Yukon Gold potatoes tend to be creamier, so they may not achieve the same level of crispiness, but they will still be delicious!

You can serve your Baked French Fries alongside various dishes. They pair well with burgers, grilled chicken, or even a simple salad. Additionally, consider serving them with an assortment of dips like ketchup, mayo, or a zesty aioli to elevate the meal.

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can mix in garlic powder, paprika, or even some cayenne pepper for a kick. Just remember to toss the fries with your desired spices before baking to ensure even coverage.

Conclusion

In summary, Baked French Fries are a delightful, healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. They bring comfort and satisfaction, making them a perfect addition to any meal or snack time. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Enjoy the crispy goodness with friends and family, and savor every bite!