Better Than Fries: Crispy, Delicious, and Effortlessly Easy

Ingredients for Better Than Fries

Here’s what you’ll need to create your crispy, golden, and better-than-fries:

• 4-5 medium-sized potatoes (or other veggies like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or carrots)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for a smoky kick)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional: dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese (for an extra cheesy twist)

How to Make Better Than Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that your “fries” will get nice and crispy without being soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and peel the potatoes (or other vegetables of your choice) if necessary. Cut them into thin strips or wedges, similar to how you would prepare traditional fries. The thinner the slices, the crispier they’ll be, so try to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

If you’re using sweet potatoes, zucchinis, or carrots, follow the same cutting technique. These vegetables will give you a delicious twist on the classic fry while still maintaining that crispiness.

Step 3: Season the Veggies

Place the cut veggies into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle in some dried herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fragrant, herby flavor. For an extra indulgent version, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top to give it a cheesy, savory boost.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. Spread the seasoned vegetable pieces in a single layer on the sheet. Avoid overcrowding the veggies, as this will cause them to steam instead of crisp up. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness on both sides.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your “fries” are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, sriracha mayo, or a garlic aioli.

Tips for Perfect “Better Than Fries”

1. Use Different Vegetables: While potatoes are the most common choice, try experimenting with different veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini for a twist on the classic fry. Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness, while zucchini gives a lighter, fresher flavor.
2. Get the Right Thickness: The thickness of your vegetable slices matters! If they’re too thick, they might not crisp up as well. Aim for about 1/4-inch thick slices for optimal texture. Thin slices will be crispy, while thicker slices will have a more hearty texture.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the fries plenty of space on the baking sheet. If they’re crowded, they’ll steam rather than crisp. Arrange them in a single layer, with space between each piece.
4. Crispier Results with a Lighter Oil Coating: Make sure to coat the vegetables evenly with oil. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven. You can also use a cooking spray for a lighter coating.
5. Use High Heat: To achieve that golden crispiness, a high baking temperature is key. 425°F (220°C) is perfect for crisping up the veggies while keeping them tender inside.
6. Try Dipping Sauces: While these crispy bites are delicious on their own, they’re even better with a tasty dipping sauce. Go for the classics like ketchup or mustard, or get creative with spicy mayo, cheese sauce, or a refreshing yogurt-based dip.

Variations to Try

1. Crispy Spicy Veggies: If you like a little heat, add some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika to the seasoning mix. This will give your “fries” a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with a cool dip.
2. Cheesy “Fries”: For an extra cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the veggies before baking. You can also toss the veggies in a mix of bread crumbs and cheese for a crunchy, cheesy coating.
3. Sweet and Savory: Try tossing your vegetables with a bit of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey before baking to add a sweet touch to the savory flavors. Pair with a tangy dip for a unique flavor combination.
4. Herb-Infused Fries: For a fresh, herby flavor, use a combination of fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to season the veggies. A little lemon zest can also add brightness to the dish.

Final Thoughts

These Better Than Fries are a fantastic way to enjoy all the crispiness and flavor of traditional fries, but with a healthier, more creative twist. They’re simple to make, full of flavor, and a great way to switch up your usual side dish routine. Whether you’re using potatoes, sweet potatoes, or zucchini, these crispy bites are bound to be a hit. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch them disappear in no time.

So the next time you’re craving something crispy and delicious, skip the fries and give this easy recipe a try—you won’t regret it!