Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1
Calorie Count per Serving: 250 kcal
I’ve been obsessed with Papas Fritas since I was a kid. There’s just something about a hot, crispy fry, fresh out of the oil, lightly salted, and impossible to stop eating. Growing up, they were a staple at family gatherings, late-night snacks, and pretty much any meal that needed a little extra comfort.
Now, they’ve become a favorite in my own house—especially with my daughter. She’ll take them any way she can get them: plain with salt, loaded with cheese, or dipped in just about anything. And honestly, I get it. Perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and ridiculously easy to customize, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest foods are the best.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For precise ingredient amounts, see the full recipe card below.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for achieving ultra-crispy fries with a fluffy interior. If you prefer a creamier texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative. Just be sure to slice them evenly for consistent frying.
Oil: A neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil is essential for deep-frying. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil works well too. Avoid olive oil, as it burns at high temperatures.
Salt: A simple seasoning, but crucial. Fine sea salt clings better to fries than coarse salt, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Garlic Powder: This optional addition gives the fries a subtle, savory depth. If you prefer a fresher taste, you can sprinkle them with finely minced garlic after frying.
Smoked Paprika: A touch of smoked paprika adds a mild, smoky flavor and a warm golden color. You can swap it for regular paprika or leave it out if you prefer classic fries.
Optional toppings: Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, black pepper, or a side of spicy mayo take these fries to the next level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by prepping the potatoes. If you like a more rustic fry, leave the skins on. Otherwise, peel them and slice into even strips about ¼ inch thick. The key to crispiness? Soaking. Transfer the cut potatoes to a large bowl of cold water and let them sit for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, helping the fries crisp up beautifully.
While the potatoes soak, get your frying setup ready. Pour about four cups of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. You’re aiming for about two inches of oil depth. Clip a thermometer to the side and heat the oil to 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop in a small piece of potato—it should sizzle immediately but not burn.
Now, drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness and can cause dangerous oil splatters. Working in batches, carefully lower a handful of potatoes into the hot oil. Fry for about three to four minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn pale golden. Remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining potatoes.
For extra-crispy fries, it’s time for a second fry. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F, then return the fries to the oil in batches. Fry for another one to two minutes, until deeply golden and perfectly crisp. Transfer to a fresh paper towel-lined plate and immediately season with salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. The heat helps the seasonings stick.
Serve hot with your favorite dips or sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan for an elevated twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These fries are everything you want in a homemade batch—golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned. The double-frying method guarantees a crunch that rivals your favorite restaurant fries, while the simple ingredients keep things easy and approachable.
You can customize them however you like. Go classic with just salt, add a smoky kick with paprika, or toss them in Parmesan for extra indulgence. They pair well with just about anything—burgers, steak, or a simple dipping sauce. Plus, they’re made with real potatoes, no preservatives, and no mystery ingredients. Just pure, crispy goodness.
Recipe Tips
Start with the right potatoes. Russets are the gold standard for crispy fries thanks to their high starch content, but if you prefer a creamier bite, Yukon Gold is a great alternative. Just be sure to cut them evenly—uneven fries cook at different rates, leading to some burning while others stay underdone.
Soak, dry, and fry. A quick soak in cold water washes away excess starch, which helps prevent soggy fries. But don’t skip the drying step—moisture is the enemy of crispiness and can cause dangerous oil splatters.
Fry twice for the ultimate crunch. The first fry cooks the potatoes through, while the second fry at a higher temperature crisps up the exterior. This is the secret to those golden, restaurant-quality fries.
Season immediately. The moment the fries come out of the oil, hit them with salt and any other seasonings you’re using. The residual heat helps everything stick, ensuring flavor in every bite.
Use the right oil. A neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil gives you that perfect crisp without any overpowering flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, avocado oil works well too. Just steer clear of olive oil—it burns too quickly at high heat.
Perfect Pairings
These fries don’t need much to shine, but they’re even better with the right sidekicks. A rich, garlicky aioli or classic ketchup is always a solid choice, but if you want to mix things up, try dipping them in chimichurri or a smoky chipotle mayo.
Need something more substantial? Serve them alongside a perfectly seared steak, a juicy burger, or a grilled chicken sandwich. They also make an excellent base for loaded fries—melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of ranch take them to the next level.
try them alongside a Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt. The smoky heat of the chipotle, creamy avocado, and crispy bread make it the perfect match for these golden fries. Serve them together for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
When to Make This Recipe
Anytime you’re craving real, homemade fries that beat anything from the drive-thru. They’re perfect for game nights, backyard cookouts, or as a simple, comforting side to elevate a weeknight meal.
They also work great for entertaining. Make a big batch, set out a variety of dips, and watch them disappear faster than you can fry the next round.
FAQ
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, but they won’t have quite the same crisp factor. To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F, toss the fries in a little oil, and spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
Fries are best fresh, but if you have extras, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To bring back the crispiness, reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes or bake at 400°F until hot. Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy.
Can I freeze homemade fries?
Absolutely. After cutting the potatoes, blanch them in boiling water for two minutes, then drain and let them dry completely. Freeze on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to fry, cook them straight from frozen—no need to thaw.
What’s the best oil for frying?
A neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, peanut, or avocado oil works best. Avoid olive oil—it burns at high heat and won’t give you the crisp texture you’re looking for.
Here are two must-have kitchen tools for making perfect Papas Fritas:
Must-have kitchen tools for making perfect Papas Fritas:
- Deep Fry Thermometer – Keep your oil at the perfect temperature for crispy fries every time. Check it out here.
- Mandoline Slicer – Get evenly cut fries quickly and effortlessly. Find it here.
Papas Fritas Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These crispy, golden Papas Fritas are the ultimate homemade fries. Made with simple ingredients and a double-frying method, they’re perfectly crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Serve them as a snack, side dish, or loaded with toppings for the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
3 large russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for a creamier texture)
4 cups vegetable oil (or avocado oil for a healthier option)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Toppings:
Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley
Black pepper
Spicy mayo or aioli
Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes (if desired) and cut them into even ¼-inch thick strips.
2. Soak for Crispiness:
Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch for a crispier texture.
3. Dry the Potatoes:
Drain and thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel to prevent oil splattering.
4. Heat the Oil:
Pour oil into a deep pot or fryer, filling it about two inches deep. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
5. First Fry – Cook the Potatoes:
Working in small batches, fry the potatoes for 3–4 minutes until just golden. Remove and place them on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Second Fry – Get Them Crispy:
Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes again for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and extra crispy.
7. Season Immediately:
Transfer fries to a bowl and toss with salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika while they are still hot.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings.
Notes
- Soaking the potatoes is optional but highly recommended for extra crispiness.
- Double frying is the secret to achieving restaurant-quality fries.
- To reheat leftovers, use an air fryer or oven at 375°F until crispy again.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Table Toppers
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
Keywords: homemade fries, papas fritas, crispy fries, deep-fried potatoes, double-fried fries, best fries recipe, golden fries
Homemade Papas Fritas are a game-changer. They are crispy, flavorful, and so easy to make. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, you will love the results. Try this recipe and let us know in the comments—what is your favorite way to season your fries?