Looking a side dish that’s fail-proof in uniting your family around the table? These oven-roasted French fries may be exactly it. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, expect to crave a second serving!

French fries are believed to go back to the late 1600s in Belgium and didn’t make their way to America for another 200 years. Today, they’re the favorite of many in their various interpretations, from thick-cut steak fries to slender shoestring potatoes.

I have a friend who says she’s never met a French fry she didn’t like, and while I tend to agree, this is my family’s favorite of all French fry recipes. It is the one I grew up with and instantly brings back memories when I smell the irresistible aroma as they bake. A delicious blend of potatoes, garlic and paprika fills the air to where you can barely wait for dinner.

What to serve with oven-roasted French fries

French fries may be the ultimate among easy side dishes. They go great with everything from burgers and steaks to roasted vegetables. They are a tasty sidekick for almost any meal while bringing a sense of fun to your plate.

I recommend pairing these baked fries with my stove-cooked burger recipe for an easy weeknight meal when you may not have time to fire up the grill. (But if you do, by all means, grill those burgers if you want.)

Are we talking about a family cookout? Then do burgers, these fries, and add this creamy cucumber salad and my mom’s best apple pie recipe. Unfurl a gingham table cloth and small bowls of homemade ice cream, and it will feel like the Fourth of July any time.

For a lighter lunch that still delivers starchy comfort, pair a serving of these fries with a simple side salad.

Ingredients needed to make oven roasted French fries

Baking Potatoes: Starchy Idaho russet potatoes are the best for crisping up nicely when roasted. Yukon golds are another good option!
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes for a savory taste.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor, sharpness and aroma.
Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor, with a beautiful golden-red hue. To go heavier on the smoky side, use smoked paprika.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings stick to the fries while helping them crisp up in the oven, too.
Optional Herbs, Spices & Toppings: These alternative spices and toppings are optional and not included in my recipe but can bring different flavors to suit your tastes – black pepper, onion powder, sea salt, parmesan cheese, parsley and garlic.
Optional Dipping Sauces: These oven baked French fries are flavorful enough on their own, but if you’re a dipper, go for your favorite – ketchup, honey mustard, ranch dressing, aioli and fry sauce are some of my favorite dip picks.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Baking Sheet
Cutting Board
Knife

Frequently asked French fries questions

Whenever I share this recipe, I get some of the same questions. Here are the most popular ones that people ask! If you have a question that isn’t listed here, please leave it in the comments, and I’ll answer as soon as possible.

Why bake instead of fry?

Baking french fries in the oven is a healthier alternative to deep frying because it uses so much less oil. With baking, you also get a more evenly cooked fry, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Plus, it’s easier to make a large batch of fries in the oven so there’s plenty to go around.

Why are my french fries not crispy in the oven?

If your french fries aren’t crispy, it’s probably one of three things: You used too much oil, too little oil, or overcrowded the baking sheet.

To avoid these mishaps, make sure the fries are spread out in a single layer on the pan and tossed in just enough oil to coat them lightly. Give your oven plenty of time to preheat to between 425°F and 450°F for the best odds of crispy perfection.

Some say to use parchment paper for your prepared baking sheet, but I’ve not had to do that to get crispy fries with my method described in the recipe below.

Why do you soak fries in water before baking?

Another tip people swear by (but I do not do every time) is to soak your cut fries in cold water before baking. It removes some excess starch, which can prevent fries from getting crispy even when you follow every other type of guidance. You can soak them about half an hour, pat them dry thoroughly before adding oil and seasonings, then bake.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes

If you loved these oven roasted French fries, here are a few other recipes that you should try! They are all delicious and grandma-approved.