Super Crispy Cheesy Fries
Components:
Regarding the Fries:
- Four big russet potatoes
- Two to three teaspoons of canola or vegetable oil
- One tsp salt
- half a teaspoon of pepper, black
- Half a teaspoon of paprika
- half a teaspoon of powdered garlic
- Half a teaspoon of powdered onion
- One-fourth teaspoon of baking powder (for added crunch)
Regarding the Cheese Topping:
- Two cups of grated cheddar cheese (or a combination of mozzarella and cheddar)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, half a cup
- (Optional) 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
- Two teaspoons of finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish only)
Guidelines:
Prepare the potatoes:
- If you would rather not have skin on your potatoes, peel them. Cut them into wedges or thin fries that are between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick.
- To get rid of extra starch, soak the sliced potatoes in a big dish of cold water for at least half an hour. This contributes to the added crispness.
- Warm up the oven and get the baking sheets ready.
- Set the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
- Baking sheets can be lightly oiled with cooking spray or lined with parchment paper.
- Pat the potatoes dry and coat:
- After draining, use paper towels to pat the potatoes dry.
- The potatoes should be evenly covered after being mixed with vegetable oil, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and baking powder in a big bowl.
Cook the fries:
- Arrange the coated potato slices onto the baking sheets that have been preheated in a single layer. To guarantee they cook evenly and are crispy, make sure they are not packed too closely together.
- Fries should be baked for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating them halfway through, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Include the cheese garnish:
- Take the fries out of the oven when they are crispy.
- Evenly distribute the grated Parmesan and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the fries. Sprinkle the bacon bits on top as well, if using them.
- Put the fries back in the oven and continue to bake for a further five to seven minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Serve and garnish:
- After taking the fries out of the oven, allow them to cool somewhat.
- If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve right away, ideally with your preferred dipping sauces.
These cheesy, crispy fries are great as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a fun main entrée. The soaking and the baking powder, which contribute to the texture’s golden crunch, are essential to the crispiness. Have fun!