Crispy Western Fries
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
What Are Western Fries?
Western Fries are thick-cut potato wedges seasoned with bold spices and cooked until perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy and tender inside. Unlike traditional French fries, Western Fries retain the potato skin, giving them extra texture, rustic appearance, and delicious flavor. They pair wonderfully with burgers, grilled meats, sandwiches, fried chicken, or can be enjoyed as a snack with your favorite dipping sauces.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This homemade Western Fries recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple pantry ingredients. Whether baked, air-fried, or deep-fried, these wedges develop an irresistible golden crust thanks to a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and black pepper. They're easy to prepare, family-friendly, and customizable with your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and leave the skins on. Cut each potato lengthwise into evenly sized wedges. Soak the wedges in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat completely dry using paper towels.
2. Season the Fries
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, parsley, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and cornstarch. Toss the potato wedges until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
3. Bake the Western Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the wedges in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray without overlapping. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Air Fryer Method
Cook the seasoned wedges in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
5. Deep Fry Method
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato wedges in small batches for 6 to 8 minutes until deeply golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season with a little extra salt while hot.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with ketchup, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Western Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes the fries soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy Western Fries alongside juicy burgers, grilled steak, fried chicken, barbecue ribs, sandwiches, wraps, or loaded with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, jalapeños, and sour cream for loaded potato wedges.
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