Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the magic of crinkle cut fries while attending culinary school, where we experimented with different cutting techniques. Over the years, I perfected the recipe by adjusting cooking times and seasoning blends to achieve the ultimate crispiness. Each batch brings back nostalgic memories of sharing fries with friends and family. Now, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you!"

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in creating mouthwatering snack recipes. His passion for food and commitment to quality ingredients results in dishes that delight the senses. He enjoys sharing approachable cooking techniques with home chefs to inspire them in the kitchen.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries served on a plate

Why This Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries Recipe Works

This Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries recipe stands out due to its unique crinkle-cut shape that enhances the fries' surface area, leading to extra crunch. The soaking process before frying is crucial as it removes excess starch and helps to achieve that signature crispiness. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch paired with a fluffy interior, making these fries irresistible.

The combination of seasonings elevates the flavor profile, ensuring that every fry is packed with taste. Using cornstarch not only aids in achieving a perfect texture but also helps the seasoning adhere better to the fries. This technique results in fries that are well-seasoned and delicious, setting them apart from your average fry.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest fries, ensure that your oil temperature is consistent and avoid overcrowding the frying pot. Fry in small batches to maintain the heat of the oil and achieve an even golden brown color. Additionally, letting the fries rest on paper towels after frying helps remove any excess oil for a perfect finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the crinkle cut fries in advance. After cutting the potatoes, soak them in cold water and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. For best results, fry them fresh when serving to maintain their crispiness. You can also par-cook them and freeze for later use, just remember to reheat in hot oil for that perfect crunch.

You can substitute vegetable oil with other high smoke point oils like canola oil, peanut oil, or even avocado oil. Each of these oils will provide a similar frying quality while adding a slight variation in flavor. Just ensure the oil you choose can withstand high temperatures without burning.

The fries are done when they turn a golden brown color and float to the top of the oil. You can test one fry for doneness by removing it and checking the texture. It should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quickly.

Absolutely! To freeze, allow the fries to cool completely after frying, then spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen for that freshly cooked taste and texture.

Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. They also complement burgers, sandwiches, and grilled meats, making them an ideal side dish for any meal. Enhance your snack experience by serving them alongside a refreshing beverage.

Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Microwaving them is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by cutting and soaking them in cold water. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. For optimal results, fry them fresh to enjoy their crisp texture. Par-frying and freezing is also an option for quick preparation later.

The best way to reheat Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries is in an oven or air fryer. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fries on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: Fries that turn out dry can be a result of overcooking or using low-quality potatoes.

Solution: To avoid dry fries, ensure you're using fresh russet potatoes and monitor the frying time closely. Cooking them for just the right amount of time will help retain moisture inside.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Fries that lack crispiness may not have been soaked long enough or may have been overcrowded in the frying pot.

Solution: Make sure to soak the cut fries for at least 30 minutes and fry them in small batches. This will help achieve that desired crunch on the outside.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Fries that are overcooked can turn dark and have a burnt taste.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the frying time and ensure the oil temperature is consistent. Regularly check the color of the fries during frying.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Fries with an undercooked center may be a sign of frying at too low of a temperature.

Recovery: Ensure that your oil is at the proper temperature (350°F) before frying. If fries are not fully cooked, you can return them to the oil for an additional minute or two.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Fries that burn on the outside but remain raw inside can occur from too high oil temperature.

Prevention: To prevent burnt fries, maintain the oil temperature around 350°F and avoid frying too many fries at once, which can lower the temperature.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the fries taste too sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt to elevate the savory flavors.

Too Salty: If the fries are too salty, you can balance the flavor by serving them with a creamy dipping sauce, which can help tone down the saltiness.

Bland: For fries that taste bland, try sprinkling more seasoning after cooking or serve with flavorful dips to enhance the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries

The key to perfect Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries lies in selecting high-quality potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy content, which leads to a fluffy interior and a crisp exterior when fried. Fresh seasonings enhance the flavor and are essential for achieving that restaurant-quality taste at home.

Using good-quality oil for frying is equally important, as it affects the flavor and texture of the fries. Always opt for oils with a high smoke point to prevent burning and ensure that your fries cook evenly. The right balance of spices can elevate your fries to a whole new level.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Russet Potatoes: Choose firm, fresh russet potatoes with no blemishes for the best results. Their high starch content is perfect for frying, giving you that ideal fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
  • Vegetable Oil: Opt for a high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil to fry your fries. This ensures they become crispy without absorbing too much oil, making them healthier and more enjoyable.
  • Sea Salt: Use coarse sea salt for seasoning your fries while they are still hot. This helps the salt adhere better and enhances the flavor without making them overly salty.
Cooking process for Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries is straightforward and rewarding. Start by prepping your potatoes, soaking them to remove excess starch, and ensuring they are dry before frying. Heating the oil to the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy finish.

Once the fries are in the hot oil, maintain the temperature and fry in small batches for even cooking. Toss them with seasoning immediately after frying to ensure all fries are flavorful and serve them hot for the best experience.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries

The most important technique for achieving perfect crispy crinkle cut fries is the soaking process. Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes removes excess starch, which can lead to soggy fries. This small step makes a significant difference in texture and helps create fries that are crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.

Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    For dipping sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
    Optional for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For added taste
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
    Optional for a kick
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For a fresh flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes
    Peeled and crinkle cut
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
    For frying
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    For color and taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    For crispiness

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes

    Peel and wash the russet potatoes. Cut them into crinkle fries using a crinkle cutter.

  2. Soak Potatoes

    Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

  3. Dry Potatoes

    Drain the fries and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

  4. Preheat Oil

    In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  5. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a bowl, combine sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cornstarch.

  6. Fry Potatoes

    Fry the potatoes in batches for about 4-6 minutes or until golden brown.

  7. Remove and Drain

    Remove the fries and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  8. Season Fries

    While still hot, sprinkle the fries with the seasoning mix and toss to coat.

  9. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with dipping sauces.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

For optimal freshness, store leftover Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. To maintain their texture, reheat them in an oven or air fryer. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to soggy fries.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Crinkle Cut Fries are delicious on their own, but they're even better when served with your favorite dipping sauces. Try pairing them with ketchup, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. They also complement burgers and sandwiches, making them a versatile side dish for any meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavor variations! Try adding different spices or herbs to the seasoning mix, such as cayenne pepper for heat or Parmesan cheese for a savory twist. You can also make loaded fries by topping them with cheese, bacon, and green onions for a hearty snack.