Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes, cut into 1/4-inch thick fries
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Sea salt flakes, for finishing

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs or spatula

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel the russet potatoes (peeling is optional for a rustic look). Cut them into 1/4-inch thick fries, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.
  3. Season Fries: In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
  4. Bake Fries: Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through with tongs or a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Make Garlic Butter: While the fries are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
  6. Toss Fries: Once the fries are done, transfer them back to the mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the hot fries and toss gently to coat evenly. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the fries and toss again.
  7. Serve: Transfer the fries to a serving platter, sprinkle with sea salt flakes for extra crunch, and serve immediately while hot.

Tips

  • Crispy Fries: Soaking and drying the potatoes thoroughly is key to achieving crispy fries.
  • Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove of minced garlic to the butter.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or substitute rosemary for parsley for a different herb profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these garlic butter steakhouse fries alongside a juicy steak, grilled chicken, or as a standalone appetizer with a side of ketchup or aioli for dipping.