Tired of takeout and craving a delicious, yet simple, homemade meal? Then look no further! These crispy homemade potato sticks are the perfect answer for a quick dinner, a satisfying snack, or a fun addition to your next gathering. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced home chefs looking for a delicious, healthy meal option. Get ready to elevate your snack game!
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and washed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, cut the potatoes into even sticks, approximately ¼ inch thick. Consistency in size ensures even cooking.
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Toss with Seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the potato sticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the sticks are evenly coated with the seasoning mix. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
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Arrange and Bake: Spread the seasoned potato sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the sticks halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the potato sticks cool slightly before serving. They are delicious on their own, or as a side dish with your favorite dips like ketchup, mayonnaise, or a homemade aioli.
Tips for Extra Crispy Potato Sticks:
- Soaking: For extra crispy potato sticks, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in a crispier texture.
- Thinly Sliced: The thinner the potato sticks, the crispier they will be. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure the potato sticks are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Double Baking: For exceptionally crispy sticks, consider a two-stage baking process: bake for 15 minutes, then remove, flip, and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Sticks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Parmesan Perfection: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potato sticks during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
These crispy potato sticks are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. They’re a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the best part? They're completely homemade, offering a delicious and satisfying alternative to processed snacks. Enjoy!