Crispy Mashed Potato Fries Recipe
Crispy Mashed Potato Fries are a delicious twist on traditional fries, made by shaping creamy mashed potatoes into fry shapes and then baking or frying them until golden and crunchy. This recipe offers a satisfying texture contrast with a soft interior and crisp exterior, perfect as a snack or side dish.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or as needed for frying/baking)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-cooked, smooth, and cooled to room temperature. This will help in forming the fries without them falling apart.
- Form the Fries: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mashed potatoes into fry-like sticks about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place them on a clean plate or baking sheet to set.
- Season the Fries: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Lightly brush the fries with vegetable oil to help them crisp and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over them.
- Choose Cooking Method: You can either bake or fry the fries. For baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If frying, preheat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Fries: Arrange the fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy on the edges.
- Fry the Fries: Gently place fries into the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the crispy mashed potato fries hot with your favorite dipping sauces and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- You can add shredded cheese to the mashed potatoes before forming fries for added flavor.
- Using day-old mashed potatoes or letting them chill can make the fries easier to shape.
- For extra crispiness, consider lightly dusting the fries with a small amount of cornstarch before cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—smoked paprika or chili powder can add a nice kick.
- These fries are best enjoyed fresh for the optimal crispy texture.
Keywords: mashed potato fries, crispy potato fries, baked mashed potato fries, potato side dish, vegetarian fries, easy snack