I will show you how to make simple baked spicy fries with a garlic cheese sauce. These fries are crispy, spicy, and easy to eat. If you like baked snacks, also try the Baked Brie with Fig Jam recipe for a sweet side.
Why make this recipe
This recipe uses simple ingredients and no deep frying.
It gives you spicy, crispy fries with a creamy garlic cheese sauce.
It is fast to make and great for sharing.
How to make Baked Spicy Fries With Garlic Cheese Sauce
You cut potatoes into fries, coat them with egg whites and spices, and bake until golden.
Then you melt cream cheese and shredded cheese with garlic and a little milk to make a smooth sauce.
Serve the sauce over hot fries.
Ingredients :
- 7 to 8 medium Idaho baking potatoes
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- coarse sea salt to taste
- 2 ounces light cream cheese
- a splash of milk
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 1 ounce good quality shredded cheese of choice
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 430°F.
- Wash and dry the potatoes.
- Cut the potatoes into french fry sized strips about 3/4 inches wide.
- Pour egg whites over the fries.
- Add chili powder, seasoning salt, smoked sweet paprika, cayenne, and coarse sea salt and stir to combine.
- Place a large sheet of parchment paper over each baking sheet.
- Scoop the potatoes onto the parchment paper, avoiding leftover egg whites.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove the parchment paper and slide the fries directly onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for another 5 to 8 minutes.
- Stir the fries carefully.
- Repeat the bake-and-stir process until the fries are puffy and golden brown (about 25 to 35 minutes total).
- For the cheese sauce, melt the cream cheese in the microwave for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in a splash of milk, minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt, and 1 teaspoon oil until smooth.
- Add the shredded cheese and melt for another 20 to 30 seconds.
- Whisk until smooth, adding more milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the fries and enjoy.
How to serve Baked Spicy Fries With Garlic Cheese Sauce
Serve the fries hot with the garlic cheese sauce poured on top or on the side for dipping.
Add extra coarse salt or fresh herbs if you like.
How to store Baked Spicy Fries With Garlic Cheese Sauce
Store leftover fries and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge.
Use within 2 days for best texture.
Reheat fries in the oven at 400°F for 5 to 10 minutes to crisp them. Reheat sauce gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk.
Tips to make Baked Spicy Fries With Garlic Cheese Sauce
– Cut fries the same size so they cook evenly.
– Do not crowd the baking sheet. Use two sheets if needed.
– Remove parchment after the first bake so fries brown directly on the pan.
– Taste the sauce and add more salt or milk to get the right flavor and texture.
Variation (if any)
You can use sweet potatoes for a sweeter version.
Try different shredded cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella for new flavors.
Add fresh chopped parsley or green onion on top.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another potato type?
A: Yes. Russet or Yukon gold work well. Idaho baking potatoes are ideal but not required.
Q: Can I skip the egg whites?
A: You can skip them, but the egg whites help the spices stick and help crisp the fries.
Q: How do I make the sauce less thick?
A: Add a little more milk and whisk until you reach the texture you want.
Q: Can I bake the fries on foil instead of parchment?
A: You can, but parchment helps keep fries from sticking and makes transfer easier.
Conclusion
For the original recipe and photos, see the Baked Spicy Fries with Garlic Cheese Sauce recipe on Pinch of Yum.