Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crispy, golden french fries that are not only delicious but also completely oil-free! Say goodbye to greasy fast-food fries and hello to a healthier, homemade alternative that will make your taste buds dance with joy. These crispy baked french fries are about to revolutionize your snacking game, proving that healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or that satisfying crunch we all love.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving crispy fries without using oil.
- Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, cut each potato into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide. Try to keep the size consistent for even cooking.
- Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Soaking them for at least 30 minutes will help remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
- After soaking, drain the potatoes and rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining starch. Pat them dry again with a towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried potato strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure all the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Spread the seasoned potato strips in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet and flip the fries using a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Once done, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help them firm up a bit more.
- Serve the crispy baked French fries warm, with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them as is. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if desired.
Tips
- Soaking is Crucial: Don't skip the 30-minute cold water soak! This step removes excess starch, which is the secret to achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
- Dry Thoroughly: After soaking, make sure to pat the potato strips completely dry. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Single Layer Magic: Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the fries instead of crisping them up.
- Oven Positioning: Use the middle rack of the oven for the most even heat distribution.
- Flipping is Key: Halfway through cooking, flip the fries to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
- Seasoning Hack: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends. Try adding some rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, and pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
