Crispy Baked Red Potato Fries

Crispy Baked Red Potato Fries

A healthier, easier alternative to traditional French fries that doesn’t sacrifice flavor

KEY INFO

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-free
• Cost: $5-8

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Kitchen towel
• Alternative: Air fryer

INGREDIENTS

• 2-3 pounds red potatoes (900g-1.4kg)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (45ml)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5g)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (5g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (5g)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (5g)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary (5g)
• 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (2.5g)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5g)

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C)
2. Wash potatoes and cut into even wedges (about 1-inch thick)
3. CRUCIAL STEP: Pat wedges completely dry with kitchen towel
4. In large bowl, combine olive oil and all seasonings
5. Add potato wedges to bowl, tossing until evenly coated
6. Line baking sheet with foil or parchment paper
7. Arrange wedges in single layer (don’t overcrowd!)
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway
   Look for: Golden brown exterior, fork-tender interior

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Never skip drying the potatoes – moisture is the enemy of crispiness
• Space wedges evenly – overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping
• Cut wedges in similar sizes for even cooking
• Serve immediately while hot and crispy

STORAGE & VARIATIONS

Storage: Airtight container in fridge (3 days max)
Reheating: 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes

AIR FRYER VERSION

• Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
• Time: 20 minutes
• Shake basket halfway through

COMMON MISTAKES

• Using wet potatoes
• Overcrowding the pan
• Not flipping during cooking
• Setting temperature too low

VARIATIONS

• Garlic Parmesan: Add ¼ cup grated parmesan before serving
• Spicy: Double chili powder, add cayenne
• Mediterranean: Use oregano, basil, and top with lemon zest
• Ranch Style: Sprinkle with ranch seasoning mix

Because life’s too short for soggy fries! These crispy beauties are your new go-to side dish that’s healthier than deep-fried versions but just as satisfying.