This Homemade French Fries recipe creates golden, crispy fries that are soft inside and perfectly seasoned. Made from fresh russet potatoes and double-fried for ultimate crunch, perfect as a snack, side dish, or game-day treat.

Ingredients

4 pounds russet potatoes
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil recommended)
Salt, to taste

Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:
Slice the potatoes into ½-inch thick sticks, leaving the peel on for extra texture. Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness.
Dry the Potatoes:
Rinse the soaked potatoes with cold water and pat dry thoroughly using paper towels. Ensure they are completely dry to prevent oil splatter during frying.
First Fry (Blanching):
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or deep fryer to 300°F (150°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Second Fry (Crisping):
Increase the oil temperature to 400°F (205°C). Fry each batch again for 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Season:
While still hot, sprinkle with salt and any additional desired seasonings. Serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Homemade French Fries are golden, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Making fries from scratch ensures better texture and flavor compared to frozen alternatives, perfect for snacks, sides, or game-day treats.

Tips

Soaking potatoes: Helps remove starch for crispier fries.
Double frying: Ensures fries are perfectly crispy without being greasy.
Oil temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature.
Batch frying: Avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent soggy fries.

Variations and Substitutions

Sweet potato fries: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes.
Seasonings: Try garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, or Parmesan for flavor twists.
Oven-baked option: Toss in oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air fryer fries: Cook at 400°F (205°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.

FAQs

Can I make fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can blanch fries in advance and refrigerate them until ready to fry for crispier results.

What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best due to high smoke points.

How do I keep fries crispy?
Drain well on paper towels and fry in batches. Serve immediately for best texture.

Can I freeze homemade fries?
Yes, after the first fry, cool completely and freeze in a single layer. Fry a second time straight from frozen.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve these Homemade French Fries with ketchup, aioli, cheese sauce, or your favorite dipping sauces. Perfect as a side for burgers, sandwiches, or alongside grilled meats.