Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by washing the potatoes well under running water. Scrub the skins to remove any dirt since the skins add extra texture and flavor when baked. Slice the potatoes into even sticks about ¼ to ½ inch thick so they cook evenly in the oven. If the fries vary too much in size, some pieces will finish earlier than others. Try to keep the shapes as similar as possible for the best texture.
Soak the Potato Sticks: Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl filled with cold water. Let them soak for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch from the potatoes and helps them become crisp during baking. After soaking, drain the potatoes and dry them thoroughly using kitchen towels or paper towels. Removing moisture is very important because wet potatoes tend to steam rather than crisp.
Preheat the Oven: Turn the oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to heat completely before baking the fries. A hot oven helps the outside of the potatoes brown properly while the inside cooks through. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. This prevents sticking and also helps the fries cook evenly.
Season the Potatoes: Place the dried potato sticks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss everything together until every piece looks lightly coated with oil and seasoning. The coating helps the fries roast instead of drying out.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Spread the fries across the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave small spaces between the pieces so hot air can circulate around them. Crowding the pan can cause the fries to soften instead of crisp, so using a large baking sheet or two smaller ones works best.
Bake the Fries: Slide the tray into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. After that time, carefully flip the fries with a spatula so both sides cook evenly. Return them to the oven and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crisp.
Finish with Extra Flavor: Once the fries come out of the oven, sprinkle a little extra salt, parmesan cheese, or fresh parsley over the top while they are still hot. That final touch melts slightly into the fries and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Serve Immediately: Transfer the fries to a serving bowl or plate and enjoy them right away while they are hot and crisp. Fresh oven fries always taste best straight from the tray. Add your favorite dipping sauce on the side and watch them disappear quickly.
