Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ranch Fries pack tons of flavor with minimal effort. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with that signature cool, herby ranch taste everyone loves. They’re quick, kid-friendly, and made with pantry staples—perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Russet potatoes or frozen French fries
- Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
- Ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt (if needed, depending on your seasoning mix)
- Optional: melted butter or olive oil for tossing
- Optional toppings: chopped chives, shredded cheddar, cooked bacon bits
- Optional dipping sauce: ranch dressing, garlic aioli, sour cream
Directions
- Prepare the fries:
- If using fresh potatoes: Wash, peel (optional), and cut into fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and dry.
- Fry twice (300°F for 4–5 minutes, then 375°F for 2–3 minutes) or bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- If using frozen fries: Bake or air fry per package instructions until crispy.
- Season the fries:
- While the fries are still hot, toss them in a large bowl with ranch seasoning.
- For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of melted butter or olive oil over the fries before tossing with seasoning.
- Garnish and serve:
- Top with optional chopped chives, shredded cheese, or bacon bits.
- Serve hot with a side of ranch dressing or dip of your choice.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus optional soaking time)
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Ranch Fries: Top with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack and melt under the broiler.
- Bacon Ranch Fries: Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a hearty upgrade.
- Spicy Ranch Fries: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder with the ranch seasoning.
- Garlic Ranch Fries: Add garlic powder or minced garlic sautéed in butter before tossing with seasoning.
- Loaded Ranch Fries: Add cheese, bacon, green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a full-loaded version.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving as it softens the fries and dulls the flavors. You can re-toss with a bit of ranch seasoning after reheating if desired.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fries?
Yes, frozen fries work great and save time. Just bake or air fry until crispy, then season with ranch.
What’s in ranch seasoning?
Ranch seasoning usually includes dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can use store-bought or make your own.
Can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway, then toss with seasoning.
Are ranch fries spicy?
Not typically. They have a herby, tangy flavor. You can add spice with cayenne or chili flakes if you like.
Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning?
You can drizzle ranch dressing over the fries or serve it as a dip, but avoid tossing hot fries in dressing—it may make them soggy.
What kind of potatoes are best?
Russet potatoes work best for fries due to their starchy texture, which creates crispy outsides and fluffy insides.
How do I keep the fries crispy?
Double frying or baking in a single, uncrowded layer helps. Toss them with seasoning while hot and serve immediately.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your ranch seasoning is gluten-free and you’re not using battered fries. Always check labels to be sure.
Can I add cheese before baking?
Yes, adding cheese in the last few minutes of baking lets it melt nicely. You can also broil briefly to melt and brown the cheese.
What dips go best with ranch fries?
Classic ranch dressing is ideal, but garlic aioli, sour cream, or spicy mayo also pair well.
Conclusion
Ranch Fries are a flavorful, satisfying twist on a classic side dish, offering herby, tangy flavor in every crispy bite. Whether you’re serving them as a party snack or pairing them with a meal, these fries are always a hit. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
PrintRanch Fries
Ranch Fries are crispy French fries tossed in zesty ranch seasoning and optionally topped with cheese, bacon, or chives. They’re easy to make and bursting with herby, tangy flavor—perfect for parties, snacks, or sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes or 1 bag frozen French fries
- Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt, to taste (if needed)
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil for tossing
- Optional toppings: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped chives, 2 tablespoons cooked bacon bits
- Optional dips: ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or sour cream
Instructions
- Wash and peel (optional) the potatoes. Cut into fries and soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
- Fry at 300°F (150°C) for 4–5 minutes, then rest. Increase oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry again for 2–3 minutes until golden. Alternatively, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- If using frozen fries, cook according to package directions until crispy.
- While fries are hot, place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with melted butter or olive oil (if using), and toss with ranch seasoning until evenly coated.
- Top with optional garnishes like cheese, bacon, or chives.
- Serve immediately with ranch dressing or your favorite dip.
Notes
- Toss fries while hot to help seasoning stick.
- Double-frying yields extra crispy fries.
- Customize with spicy or cheesy add-ons.
- Serve with a variety of dips for extra flavor.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven to retain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
