Who doesn’t love a batch of crispy, golden fries? They’re the ultimate comfort food, and when you take them up a notch with bold, spicy Cajun seasoning, they become irresistible! Spicy Cajun Fries strike the perfect balance between crunchy, flavorful, and just the right amount of heat. The best part? You don’t need a deep fryer or complicated techniques. This easy homemade recipe will have you serving up restaurant-style fries in no time!
Whether you’re looking for the perfect sidekick to a burger, a snack to share, or a plate of fries to devour on your own, this recipe is a winner for fry lovers. Grab your appetite, and let’s get started!
Ingredients
To whip up a plate of these mouthwatering Spicy Cajun Fries, you’ll need just a handful of basic ingredients.
For the Fries
- 4 large russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for a slightly creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
For the Cajun Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika if you prefer a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired spice level)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus extra to taste)
Optional toppings and dip ideas:
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese
- Ranch dressing, aioli, or spicy mayo for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
- Start by washing and scrubbing your potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut them into thin, even strips – aim for about ¼-inch thickness for perfectly crispy fries. If you prefer wedges, go a little thicker.
- Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, which helps prevent soggy fries.
Step 2: Preheat and Parboil
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or if you’re using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C).
- While the oven (or air fryer) heats up, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add your sliced potatoes and parboil them for 3-4 minutes. This step ensures they cook evenly and get extra crispy later on.
- Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 3: Season and Bake
- Place your dried potato slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the vegetable oil and toss to coat every piece evenly.
- Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning generously over the fries, along with the cornstarch. Toss again until the fries are evenly coated with that gorgeous spice mixture.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For maximum crunch, make sure they're not crowded on the tray.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Air Fryer Option: Place the fries in your air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket midway.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once your fries are beautifully crisp and golden, sprinkle them with a little extra salt, chopped parsley, or even a touch of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Serve hot alongside your favorite dip – spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or classic ketchup are all crowd-pleasers.
Tips for Perfect Spicy Cajun Fries
Adjust the Heat: Love an extra kick? Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the Cajun seasoning. Want something milder? Cut the cayenne in half.
Double Batch: Make a double batch and freeze the seasoned, uncooked fries for later! Just spread them out on a tray, freeze for an hour, and then store them in a freezer bag.
Experiment with Toppings: Crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can take these fries to the next level. Be creative and make them your own!
Healthier Version: For a super guilt-free option, use an air fryer and go easy on the oil. You still get all the crunch and flavor without the extra calories.
These Spicy Cajun Fries are everything that fries should be – crispy, flavor-packed, and totally addictive. Whether you're snacking solo or feeding a crowd, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for easy homemade fries. Give it a try, and get ready for a treat that checks all the boxes. Enjoy!
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