Description
This Crispy Cajun Fries recipe offers perfectly seasoned, golden fries baked to a crisp in the oven. Using a blend of Cajun spices and olive oil, these fries are flavorful and healthier than traditional fried versions. Soaking the potatoes before baking removes excess starch, resulting in a delicious, crunchy exterior and fluffy interior. Ideal as a snack or side dish, these fries pair wonderfully with your favorite dips.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes and Oil
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix (optional)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes if desired, then cut them into fries about 1/4 inch thick. Place the fries in a large bowl of water and soak for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness when baked.
- Season the Fries: Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean towel. Transfer the fries to a clean bowl and drizzle with the olive oil, tossing to coat evenly.
- Add the Cajun Seasoning: Sprinkle the 1 ½ teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and onion powder over the fries. Toss again to ensure the fries are well coated with the spice mixture.
- Bake the Fries: Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation for crisping. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. Bake until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve: Remove the fries from the oven once crispy and golden. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce such as ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Notes
- Soaking potatoes removes starch and helps create crispy fries when baked.
- Dry fries thoroughly before seasoning to ensure crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to promote even cooking and crisping.
- Flip fries halfway through baking to achieve uniform crispiness.
- Adjust cayenne pepper in Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- Use a convection oven if available for even crispness and reduced cooking time.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes (includes 30 minutes soaking)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
