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    The Heirloom Pantry » Recipes » Sides

    Homemade Seasoned French Fries

    Published: Jun 27, 2022 · Modified: Oct 9, 2023 by Kathleen Higashiyama · The following content may contain paid links. When you click and shop the links, we receive a commission.

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    Classic seasoned French fries Pinterest pin.

    Homemade Seasoned French Fries are crispy, fluffy, and delightfully flavorful. Learn how to make these easy fries with a handful of our favorite seasonings and serve them with our Cast Iron Skillet Burger at your next barbeque!

    Classic seasoned french fries with garlic powder, dried basil, paprika, and ketchup on a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    These mouthwatering golden fries are seasoned with basil, paprika, and garlic powder for lots of flavor. Pair them with a delicious dipping sauce like our spicy aioli, truffle aioli, or wasabi mayo for extra flavor!

    Homemade seasoned fries can be made year round and go with so many lunch and dinner recipes. Try these yummy fries with Cast Iron Skillet Burger, Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, or as a base for Animal Style Fries.

    Jump to:
    • About Homemade French Fries
    • Ingredients
    • Substitutions
    • Variations
    • Instructions
    • What to Serve with Homemade Fries
    • Recipe FAQs
    • Dipping Sauces for Fries
    • Storage
    • Cooking Tips
    • Other Types of Fries
    • Related Recipes
    • Did You Like This Recipe?
    • 📖 Recipe

    About Homemade French Fries

    • Taste - These crispy French fries are earthy and savory. The garlic powder, basil, and smoked paprika also add an herbaceous and slightly spicy seasoning.
    • Texture - The fries are crispy and fluffy.
    • Effort - You only need to fry the potatoes then lightly season them. If you want to streamline the process, use store-bought fries instead of making them yourself.
    • Time - You need to chill the potatoes for about 30 minutes then it takes about 15 minutes to cook the potatoes twice and season them.

    Ingredients

    Ingredients for classic seasoned French fries.
    • Potatoes - Yukon and russet potatoes have pleasant flavor. When fried, both get crispy on the outside while maintaining a fluffy interior.
    • Frying oil - Canola oil, peanut oil, and vegetable oil are great for deep frying potatoes because they all have a high smoke point. Olive oil has a lower smoke point and is not ideal for frying.
    • Paprika - Paprika adds a light spiciness to the fries.
    • Garlic powder - Garlic powder adds the quintessential aroma to the fries without overpowering the other ingredients.
    • Dried Basil - Basil brightens up the fries with herbaceous flavor.

    See recipe card for quantities.

    Substitutions

    • Minced garlic - Used minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust garlic aroma.
    • Black or White Truffle oil - Truffle oil has a robust aroma and slightly garlicky taste.
    • Parmigiano-reggiano cheese - Parmigiano-reggiano is an aged Italian cheese made of cow's milk. It is full of umami flavor and the perfect cheesy topping for fries.
    • Frozen Fries - In order to make this recipe with frozen fries, just follow the instructions on the packaging, then add our seasoning blend.
    • Potatoes - Idaho or Russet potatoes are a good replacement for Yukon golds because they have a high starch content and will also maintain their fluffy interior when fried.
    • Air fryer - Make the fries in an air fryer instead of over the stove.

    Variations

    • Extra spicy - Add smoked paprika or chili powder to the seasoning to make these classic seasoned French fries extra spicy.
    • Onion Powder - Add onion powder for a pungent and sweet flavor.
    • Parsley - Parsley adds a bright and herby flavor.
    • Cajun fries - Check out our Cajun Fries for uniquely flavored fries.
    • Parmesan truffle fries - Parmesan Truffle Fries are a rich and unique spin on traditional fries.
    • Caramelized Onions - Top these fries with Caramelized Onions for rich flavor.

    Instructions

    Steps to make classic seasoned French fries.
    • Chill potatoes - Place the cut potatoes in a bowl bowl in the refrigerator and soak potatoes for at least 30 minutes and as long as overnight. When ready to fry, drain the water completely and place the sliced potatoes on a clean kitchen towel or on paper towels then pat dry right before frying. (Photo 1 and 2)
    • Heat oil for frying - Add about 3 inches of oil to a large pot or dutch oven and heat the oil to 300ËšF. If the oil starts to bubble against the spoon, it’s ready for frying. (Photo 3)
    • First fry - Add a third of the potatoes to the oil and cook for 5 minutes, until the potatoes turn light golden brown. Remove from the oil, carefully shake the excess oil into the pot, and place the fries on a rack. Return the oil back to 300ËšF between each batch to ensure the fries are cooking evenly. (Photo 3 and 4)
    Steps to make classic seasoned French fries.
    • Second fry - Once all of the fries have cooked once, increase the heat of the oil to 400ËšF. Repeat the process and add a third of the fries to the oil and fry until they become deep golden brown. (Photo 5)
    • Season fries - Remove the fries from the oil, shake off the excess oil, and place in a mixing boil. Season with garlic powder, basil, paprika, salt and pepper. Gently toss and serve immediately. (Photo 6, 7, and 8)

    Pro tip: You can use store-bought frozen fries instead of frying them yourself then just add our fry seasoning. While we prefer the taste and texture of our fries, store-bought fries will save you time and effort.

    What to Serve with Homemade Fries

    These homemade fries are an easy side that taste delicious with a main course. Check out these dinner recipes that pair perfectly with fries:

    • Cast Iron Skillet Burger
    • Pesto Swiss And Turkey Skillet Sliders
    • Cheese Quesadilla with Pan Roasted Vegetables
    • BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs (Baked in Oven)
    • Bavette Steak (Broiled Garlic Flank Steak)

    Recipe FAQs

    Why are they called French fries?

    The origin of French fries is disputed, but many claim that the fries originated in Belgium in World War I. The story goes that there was a French speaking town in Belgium where the townspeople ate fried potatoes. When American soldiers encountered the French speaking townspeople and the fried potatoes, they called the potatoes French fries.

    Are homemade French fries healthy?

    While we wouldn't consider them very healthy, homemade French fries typically have less fat, sodium, and carbohydrates than their fast food counterparts.

    What's the difference between French fries and chips?

    Both French fries and chips are fried potatoes. French Fries are popular in the US while chips are popular in the UK. Chips are typically made of thicker cut potatoes and are usually only cooked once at a lower temperature.

    Why do you fry fries twice?

    We fry them the first time at a lower temperature to soften the potatoes and create a water tight barrier so their inside stays moist when they are fried again. We fry them the second time to make them crispy.

    Can dogs eat French fries?

    No, we do not recommend feeding your dog fries since they are somewhat high in fat, sodium, and carbohydrates. All of which are unhealthy for your dog.

    Dipping Sauces for Fries

    These fries are perfect with dipping sauce. Check out these:

    • Ketchup - Ketchup is a classic fry dipping sauce. The sauce is sweet, vinegary, and slightly tomatoey.
    • BBQ sauce - BBQ sauce is a rich sweet and savory sauce. We prefer a smoky BBQ sauce with no artificial flavors or colors.
    • Ranch dressing - Ranch dressing has a rich buttermilk and herby flavor.
    • Chipotle mayo - Chipotle Mayo is a smoky sauce consisting of mayo, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic powder, and lime.
    • Truffle Aioli - Truffle Aioli is a rich and creamy dipping sauce featuring mayo, truffle oil, garlic, and lemon.
    • Honey mustard - Mustard has a pungent flavor, the honey adds sweetness. Try our honey dijon for another tasty honey based sauce.
    • Wasabi Mayo Aioli - Wasabi Mayo Aioli Sauce is a zesty, creamy spread with hints of pungent wasabi, garlic, and soy sauce.
    • Spicy kewpie Mayo - Spicy Kewpie Mayo is a tangy and flavorful Japanese sauce made with creamy Kewpie mayo, spicy sriracha, togarashi, mirin, and sesame oil.
    • In-N-Out Sauce - Similar to Thousand Island Dressing, In N Out Sauce is creamy and tangy. Try pouring the sauce over the fries to make them animal style.

    Storage

    Store these homemade French fries in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. In order to reheat the fries, heat the oven to 300°F and bake fries on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy. These fries don't stand up well to freezing.

    Cooking Tips

    • Cut fries evenly - Cut the fries so they have the same width. This will help them cook evenly in the oil.
    • Leftover oil - Wait for the oil to cool then pour it into a sealed bottle or jar. You can either reuse the oil or throw it out.

    Other Types of Fries

    The seasoning used for these fries also tastes delicious with these other types of fries:

    • Sweet potatoes fries - Sweet potato fries are slightly sweeter than French fries.
    • Waffle fries - Waffle fries are dense yet still crispy like regular French fries.
    • Crinkle fries - Crinkle fries are crinkled and are slightly crunchier and crispier than normal fries.
    • Curly fries - Curly fries are usually made with onion and garlic powder seasoning, and as a result are golden orange.

    Related Recipes

    • Parmesan truffle friends on a tray with truffle lemon aioli.
      Parmesan Truffle Fries with Truffle Aioli
    • Bacon cheddar hasselback potatoes topped with sour cream, bacon, and chives on a parchment paper-lined board for serving.
      Bacon Cheddar Hasselback Potatoes
    • Breakfast hash with sweet potatoes in a white Le Creuset braiser/skillet with eggs and avocado.
      Breakfast Hash with Sweet Potatoes and Eggs
    • Roasted garlic yukon mashed potatoes with parmigiano-reggiano, sour cream, creamy roasted garlic, and chives in a striped blue and white bowl.
      Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Fluffy & Creamy)

    Did You Like This Recipe?

    Love these vegan french fries? Please leave a 5-star rating in the recipe card below & consider leaving a comment below. Thanks in advance!

    Sign up for THP's newsletter and keep in touch on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. If you make this recipe, tag #theheirloompantry so we can see your homemade fries!

    📖 Recipe

    Classic seasoned french fries with garlic powder, dried basil, paprika, and ketchup on a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Homemade Seasoned French Fries

    Homemade Seasoned French Fries are crispy, fluffy, and delightfully flavorful. Learn how to make these easy fries with a handful of our favorite seasonings and serve them with our Cast Iron Skillet Burger for your next barbeque!
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time10 minutes mins
    Refrigerate time30 minutes mins
    Total Time45 minutes mins
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: American
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 175kcal
    Author: Kathleen Higashiyama

    Equipment

    • 1 Tongs
    • 1 knife
    • 1 cutting board
    • 1 dutch oven
    • 1 oil thermometer
    • 1 baking sheet
    • 1 mixing bowl

    Ingredients 

    • 1 quart frying oil canola, peanut, or vegetable oil
    • 2 Yukon gold or russet potatoes cut into matchsticks or wedges
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • sea salt
    • pepper
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions

    • Chill potatoes - Place the cut potato in a large bowl and fill with cold water. Place the bowl in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes and as long as overnight. When ready to fry, drain the water completely and place the sliced potatoes on a clean kitchen towel or on paper towels to dry right before frying.
      2 Yukon gold or russet potatoes
    • Heat oil for frying - Add about 3 inches of oil to a large pot or dutch oven and heat the oil to 300ËšF. If you don’t have a thermometer, take the end of a wooden spoon and dip it in the oil. If the oil starts to bubble against the spoon, it’s ready for frying.
      1 quart frying oil
    • First fry - Add a third of the potatoes to the oil and cook for 5 minutes, until the potatoes turn light golden brown. Remove from the oil, carefully shake the excess oil into the pot, and place the fries on a rack. Return the oil back to 300ËšF between each batch to ensure the fries cook evenly.
    • Second fry - Once all of the fries have cooked once, increase the heat of the oil to 400ËšF. Repeat the process and add a third of the fries to the oil and fry until they become deep golden brown.
    • Season fries - Remove the fries from the oil, shake off the excess oil, and place in a mixing boil. Season with garlic powder, basil, paprika, salt and pepper. Gently toss and serve immediately.
      1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon paprika, sea salt, pepper

    Notes

    Storage
    • Store these homemade French fries in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. In order to reheat the fries, heat the oven to 300°F and bake fries for 5-10 minutes, or until crispy. These ingredients don't stand up well to freezing.
    Cooking tips
    • Cut fries evenly - Cut the fries so they have the same width. This will help them cook evenly in the oil.
    • Leftover oil - Wait for the oil to cool then pour it into a sealed bottle or jar. You can either reuse the oil or throw it out.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 175kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 12mg | Potassium: 924mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 83IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 2mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @theheirloompantry or tag #theheirloompantry!

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    About the Author

    Kat Higashiyama and Alec Totto are recipe developers, food photographers, and the authors behind The Heirloom Pantry. Since 2017, they have shared recipes inspired by their Japanese and Italian heritage and California and Hawaii roots. They reside in San Jose with their two dogs, Peeps and Paisley. Read More…

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    Alec and Kat with Paisley and Peeps on the beach

    We're Kat and Alec, the culinary duo behind The Heirloom Pantry, where family recipes from our Italian and Japanese heritage meet fresh California ingredients and Hawaiian sunshine. Our chef-tested dishes help you conquer weeknights and wow guests with effortless entertaining. Join us on this delicious journey – let's cook up confidence, together!

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