Baked Red Potato French Fries Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crisp, golden French fry. Now, imagine that fry being not just delicious but also wholesome! This Baked Red Potato French Fries Recipe takes the humble potato and transforms it into a delightful side dish that you can feel good about serving. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Perfect for pairing with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to your main dish, these fries are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
The beauty of this Baked Red Potato French Fries Recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Red potatoes are naturally creamy and flavorful, which means you don’t need to load them up with heavy seasonings or sauces to enjoy them. Baking instead of frying not only makes them a healthier option, but it also allows you to control the amount of oil you use, leading to a lighter, guilt-free indulgence. Plus, these fries are easy to customize with different spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences.
The Ingredient Lineup
- 2 pounds red potatoes: Washed, dried, and cut into 1/2-inch wedges for the perfect fry shape.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps achieve that crispy texture without frying.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes.
- Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Baking sheet: A large, rimmed sheet is ideal for spreading the fries out in a single layer.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but it helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping your potatoes.
- Bowl: For tossing the potato wedges with oil and seasonings.
- Oven mitts: To protect your hands when handling hot trays.
Baked Red Potato French Fries Recipe Cooking Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and dry your red potatoes thoroughly. Once they are clean, cut them into wedges, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil
In a large bowl, combine the potato wedges with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until all the wedges are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture!
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the potato wedges out in a single layer on your baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, which means less crispiness.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip the fries to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
The fries are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you prefer them extra crispy, leave them in for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as they are, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or a zesty ranch dressing.
Seasonal Twists
- Herb-Infused: Toss with fresh rosemary or thyme before baking for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Mix in minced garlic or garlic powder for a savory boost.
- Cheesy Fries: Sprinkle with your favorite cheese (like Parmesan or cheddar) during the last few minutes of baking.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
When making these Baked Red Potato French Fries, feel free to experiment with different oils if olive oil isn’t your preference. Avocado oil is a great alternative that also has a high smoke point. Additionally, using a variety of seasonings allows you to tailor the flavor profile to match your meal. Consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a barbecue flair.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
These fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but they may lose some of their crunch. For meal prep, feel free to cut the potatoes and store them in a bowl of cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Handy Q&A
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are great for their texture and flavor, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes as well. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may yield slightly different textures and flavors.
How can I make these fries even healthier?
To make these fries healthier, consider reducing the amount of olive oil or using an oil sprayer to lightly coat the potatoes. You can also add more herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding calories.
What dipping sauces go well with these fries?
The options are endless! Classic ketchup is always a hit, but for something different, try a homemade garlic aioli, tangy BBQ sauce, or a creamy ranch dressing. You could even make a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavorful kick!
Can I freeze these fries?
Yes! To freeze, place the raw, seasoned potato wedges on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Let’s Eat
This Baked Red Potato French Fries Recipe is a testament to the fact that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and a little love, you can create a dish that’s not only pleasing to the palate but also nourishing for the body. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of fries that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. There’s nothing quite like the flavor of homemade fries, and with this recipe, you’ll never look at store-bought fries the same way again. Enjoy!
Baked Red Potato French Fries Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and dry your red potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into wedges.
- In a large bowl, combine the potato wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the potato wedges out in a single layer on your baking sheet.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- The fries are done when golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for varied flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a healthier option, reduce olive oil or use an oil sprayer.
