Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered my love for crispy fries during my culinary school days while experimenting with different cooking techniques. Perfecting the balance of seasoning was a delightful challenge, and after several trials, I nailed this recipe. Adding the garlic aioli was a game changer, creating a perfect dip that complements the fries wonderfully. Each batch reminds me of my journey into the world of American comfort food."

As a chef specializing in American cuisine, I have dedicated years to perfecting snack recipes. My passion lies in creating delicious, easy-to-make dishes that bring people together. With a focus on flavor and presentation, I aim to inspire home cooks to explore their culinary skills.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli served on a plate

Why This Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the delightful combination of flavors. The fries are baked to achieve a perfect crispiness without deep-frying, making them a healthier option. The seasoning blend adds depth, while the garlic aioli provides a rich, creamy dip that elevates the dish.

The technique of soaking the fries helps achieve maximum crispiness by removing excess starch, allowing for a perfect texture. Additionally, the balance of seasonings enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes, ensuring that each bite is a flavor explosion.

💡 Professional Tip

For extra crispy fries, consider double-baking them. After the first bake, let the fries cool for a few minutes before returning them to the oven for a second round. This will create an even crunchier texture that pairs beautifully with the garlic aioli.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the fries ahead of time. Just follow the recipe up to baking, then store the seasoned fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake them as instructed. The garlic aioli can also be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, just give it a good stir before serving.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the garlic aioli. It provides a similar creamy texture while adding a bit of tanginess. Another option is using avocado for a richer flavor, but be aware that it will change the color of the aioli.

The fries are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can check their doneness by piercing one with a fork; it should be tender inside. The garlic aioli is ready when it's well-mixed and creamy, with a strong garlic flavor.

You can freeze the fries before baking. Just spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. However, it's best to prepare the garlic aioli fresh for best flavor.

Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli pair perfectly with various dishes. They make an excellent side for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats. You can also serve them as a standalone snack for movie nights or gatherings, accompanied by other dips like ketchup or ranch for variety.

The baked fries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The garlic aioli lasts for about a week when stored properly. Just reheat the fries in the oven for best results before serving.

Yes, you can make the garlic aioli in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The fries can be prepared and stored in the fridge before baking. When ready, bake them fresh for a crispy texture.

The best way to reheat crispy fries is to place them on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your fries come out too dry, they may have been overcooked.

Solution: Ensure to monitor the cooking time and adjust your oven temperature if necessary. Adding a little extra oil before baking can also help maintain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Fries that are not crispy may not have been baked long enough or had too much moisture.

Solution: Make sure to soak and dry the fries thoroughly before baking, and spread them out evenly on the baking sheet. If needed, increase baking time or temperature slightly.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the fries are burnt or overly crispy, they may have been left in the oven too long.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, set a timer and check the fries a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends. Adjust the temperature for future batches if needed.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If your fries are crispy on the outside but raw in the center, they may need more cooking time.

Recovery: Try cutting the fries into smaller, even pieces for more uniform cooking. Baking at a lower temperature for a longer time can also help achieve a more evenly cooked fry.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of the fries is burnt while the inside remains undercooked, they may have been cooked at too high a temperature.

Prevention: Reduce the oven temperature and increase the cooking time slightly to ensure even cooking throughout.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the aioli is too sweet, consider balancing it with a bit more lemon juice or adding salt to enhance the flavor.

Too Salty: If the garlic aioli is too salty, dilute it with a bit more mayonnaise or yogurt to mellow the flavor.

Bland: To enhance bland garlic aioli, add more minced garlic or a splash of vinegar for acidity.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli

The key ingredients for this recipe are russet potatoes, known for their starchy content, making them ideal for crispy fries. The seasoning blends give each fry a burst of flavor, while the garlic aioli adds a creamy, garlicky kick that complements the fries perfectly.

Using fresh garlic and high-quality mayonnaise is crucial for the aioli. The better the quality of your ingredients, the more flavorful your final dish will be. Opt for organic potatoes for the best taste and health benefits.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for fries due to their high starch content, resulting in a fluffy interior and crispy exterior when baked. Look for firm, unbruised potatoes for the best results.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor of the aioli. Use freshly minced garlic instead of pre-minced for a more robust taste. Roasting garlic can also add a sweeter, milder flavor if preferred.
  • Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil not only aids in achieving crispiness but also adds flavor to the fries. Choose extra virgin olive oil for the best health benefits and taste.
Cooking process for Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli is straightforward and rewarding. Start by soaking the fries, which is key to achieving that perfect crunch. Seasoning the fries well enhances their flavor, and baking them allows for a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Monitoring the fries while baking is essential to ensure they reach the ideal level of crispiness. The garlic aioli is made easily by mixing ingredients, creating a delicious dip to complement the fries beautifully.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli

Soaking the fries in cold water before baking is the most important technique for achieving crispiness. This step removes excess starch and allows the fries to bake evenly, resulting in a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, fluffy interior.

Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    For the garlic aioli
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    Freshly minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
    To taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
    For garnish
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
    Optional

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes
    Peeled and cut into fries
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For coating fries
  • 1 tsp sea salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp paprika
    For color
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
    For heat

Instructions

  1. Prep the Potatoes

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse and soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

  2. Season the Fries

    Drain the fries, pat them dry with a kitchen towel, and place them in a large bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss well to coat.

  3. Bake the Fries

    Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip the fries and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

  4. Make the Garlic Aioli

    In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, parsley, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined. Adjust the consistency with water if necessary.

  5. Serve the Fries

    Once fries are crispy and golden, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve hot with garlic aioli on the side.

  6. Garnish and Enjoy

    Optionally, garnish the fries with additional herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover fries, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best quality, reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness. The garlic aioli can also be stored in the fridge for about a week.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Fries with Garlic Aioli are best served warm, as a snack or side dish. Pair them with burgers, hot dogs, or any grilled meats for a delicious meal. They can also be served at parties with a variety of dips for guests to enjoy.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings on the fries, such as Parmesan cheese or herbs. You can also add a twist to the garlic aioli by incorporating different flavors like sriracha for heat or herbs for freshness.