Perfect Crispy French Fries : The Ultimate Homemade Recipe

Who doesn’t love a crispy, golden batch of French fries? Whether they’re served with a juicy burger, as a side for dinner, or enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce, deep-fried French fries are a beloved treat. This guide will teach you how to make homemade French fries that are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Learn the secrets to achieving the best fries, from the ideal potatoes to the best way to make French fries in your kitchen.

If you’re craving a side dish or looking for a simple meal, these crispy French fries are the perfect choice. Let’s dive in and learn how to make deep fry French fries from scratch!

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Why You’ll Love This French Fry Recipe

What makes these fries so special? First off, they’re homemade, meaning you have full control over the ingredients, the crispiness, and the flavor. These deep-fried fries are perfectly seasoned and golden brown, made using a deep fryer to ensure the best texture. Whether you’re making fair fries for a fun treat or just whipping up a batch of fries for supper, this recipe guarantees that every bite will be crispy and delicious.

For a complete meal, try pairing your fries with a hearty dish like our Cheesy Zucchini Bread or a quick Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowl.

Who This Recipe Is For

This crispy French fries recipe is perfect for:

• French fry lovers who crave that golden, crunchy texture.
• Home cooks who want to master the art of frying potatoes at home.
• Families who want a homemade alternative to store-bought fries.
• Anyone looking for the perfect side dish for burgers, steaks, or fried chicken.

If you love potatoes as much as we do, check out our Loaded Breakfast Hash for a tasty twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make deep-fried French fries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (russet potatoes are the best for fries due to their high starch content)
• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
• Salt (for seasoning)
• Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings (for extra flavor)

These simple ingredients come together to create the best homemade French fries!

If you love potatoes, try our Crispy Smashed Potato Salad or Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin as an alternative side dish.

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Best Potatoes for Fries

When it comes to deep-frying potatoes, not all potatoes are created equal. Russet potatoes are the best choice for French fries because they are starchy and produce a fluffy interior when fried. Their firm texture allows them to hold up well during frying without becoming mushy.

For more potato recipes, check out our Baked Chicken Legs, where we use russet potatoes in a simple yet delicious recipe!

How to Cut French Fries

Cutting your potatoes properly is key to getting the right fry texture. Follow these steps:

1. Peel the potatoes (optional, but recommended for a smooth texture).
2. Cut each potato into thick, even strips (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide).
3. Soak the potato strips in water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispy fries.

For another great cutting technique, try making Mini Pancake Cereal for a fun breakfast idea!

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Perfect French Fries

Follow these easy steps for crispy, golden deep-fried French fries:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

After cutting your potatoes into strips, place them in a large bowl of cold water. Soak the potatoes for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which is crucial for getting crispy fries. Drain and pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the fries.

For a healthier option, try baking these fries in the oven, as shown in our Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal recipe.

Step 3: Fry the Potatoes

Carefully add the potato strips into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary. Fry for about 4-6 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Season and Serve

While the fries are still hot, sprinkle with salt (or any other seasonings you like). Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a main dish.

If you’re looking for a simple main course to pair with your fries, try our Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy French Fries

• Double fry for extra crispiness: Fry the potatoes in two stages. First, cook them at a lower temperature (about 300°F/150°C) for about 3-4 minutes. Then, let them cool for a few minutes and fry again at 350°F (175°C) until golden and crispy.
• Use a thermometer: If you’re deep-frying fries at home, a thermometer will help ensure your oil reaches the right temperature, preventing soggy fries.
• Avoid overcrowding: Frying too many potatoes at once can lower the oil temperature and result in limp fries.

For another fried favorite, check out our Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets with Honey Mustard Sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not soaking the potatoes: Soaking your potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, which is essential for crispy fries.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: If the oil is too hot, the fries will cook too quickly on the outside, leaving them raw inside. If it’s too cold, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Not draining properly: Let the fries rest on a paper towel to absorb excess oil and prevent them from becoming soggy.

What to Have for Supper

If you’re wondering what to have for supper, crispy French fries are the perfect side dish. Serve them with a main course like our Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon or Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole for a satisfying meal.

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Creative Presentation Ideas

• Fry cones: Serve your fries in paper cones for a fun, fair-like presentation. Top with various seasonings or dips for an extra touch.
• Fries bar: Set up a fries station with different toppings and sauces like ketchup, aioli, or even cheese for a fun family dinner.

If you’re hosting a gathering, try our Mini Halloween Pizzas as a fun appetizer.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storage: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: To get fries crispy again, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes.

For a healthier option, check out our Crispy Smashed Potato Salad.

Final Thoughts: Why This French Fry Recipe Is a Keeper

Making your own deep-fried French fries at home is a game-changer. Not only do you get to enjoy the perfect crispiness, but you also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what went into your meal. These fries are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a comforting side dish. The secret to crispy fries is in the preparation, and now you know exactly how to achieve fry perfection every time.

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