Description
These Zesty Shoestring Fries are crispy, thin-cut potatoes with a bold, spicy seasoning that takes them to the next level! Perfect as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks (shoestring style)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (for extra zest)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Cut the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, matchstick-sized fries (about 1/8-inch thick). Use a mandoline or sharp knife for uniformity.
- Rinse & Dry: Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Bake: Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet (avoid overcrowding for crispiness). Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Optional Finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese immediately after baking for an extra zesty kick.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce (ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo). Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak the fries in cold water for up to 30 minutes, and ensure they’re fully dry before seasoning.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level—omit it for a milder flavor.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0g