How To Make French Fries Recipe
Introduction
French fries are a beloved classic side dish known for their crispy exterior and tender inside. Making them at home allows you to enjoy fresh, perfectly cooked fries without any preservatives or additives.

Ingredients
- 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes
- Vegetable or peanut oil, for frying
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cover a large baking sheet with paper towels to absorb excess oil later. Slice the potatoes lengthwise into ¼-inch rounds, then cut each round lengthwise into sticks to form fries.
- Step 2: Place the cut potatoes into a Dutch oven and pour in enough oil to just cover them. Turn the heat to high and bring the oil to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Without stirring, let the potatoes cook for 15 minutes. Then, use tongs to gently loosen any fries stuck to the pan and continue cooking until the fries turn golden and crispy, approximately 10 minutes more.
- Step 4: Use a large slotted spoon to transfer the fries to the paper towel-lined baking sheet. Immediately season with kosher salt while they are still hot.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before frying to remove excess starch, then pat dry thoroughly.
- Try seasoning your fries with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Use peanut oil for a higher smoke point and a subtle nutty flavor, ideal for deep frying.
Storage
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to help restore their crispiness; avoid microwaving as it can make fries soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for fries?
Yes, Russet potatoes are a popular choice due to their high starch content, which makes fries crispy. Yukon Golds work well too, offering a creamier texture.
How do I avoid greasy fries?
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes, and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the temperature. Drain fries on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil.
PrintHow To Make French Fries Recipe
Crispy, golden French fries made from fresh Yukon Gold potatoes fried to perfection in vegetable or peanut oil. This recipe provides a straightforward approach to achieving crispy homemade fries with a deliciously tender interior and lightly salted finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes
Oil
- Vegetable or peanut oil, enough to cover potatoes for frying (about 4-6 cups)
Seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Cover a large baking sheet with paper towels. Slice the Yukon Gold potatoes lengthwise into ¼-inch thick rounds, then cut each round lengthwise into sticks to form the fries.
- Heat Oil and Start Frying: Place the cut potatoes in a Dutch oven and pour in vegetable or peanut oil until the potatoes are just covered. Turn the heat to high and bring the oil to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Cook Fries Initially: Without stirring, cook the potatoes for 15 minutes to allow them to start crisping on the bottom.
- Loosen and Continue Cooking: Use tongs to gently loosen any fries stuck to the pan. Continue cooking the fries until they turn golden and crispy, approximately another 10 minutes, turning occasionally as needed to ensure even cooking.
- Drain and Season: Use a large slotted spoon to transfer the fries to the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with kosher salt while the fries are hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Using Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a creamy interior with a crispy outside.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
- Peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.
- Drain fries well on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Season fries immediately after frying to help salt adhere better.
- Be cautious with hot oil to avoid burns or splashes.
Keywords: French fries, homemade fries, crispy fries, potato fries, fried potatoes, Yukon Gold fries

