Imagine pulling a basket of golden, crisp fries from the oven or fryer, then showering them with a fragrant mix of sea salt, garlic, and paprika that smells like a nostalgic diner.
This blend is perfect for game night, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want restaurant style fries without the mystery ingredients.
SaveI first tested it after a late night craving and my friends fought over the last sprinkle, it is that addictive.
French Fry Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients
Measure out all the spices and cornstarch so everything is ready before you mix.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and cayenne until evenly blended.
- Add Cornstarch (Optional)
Stir in the cornstarch if you want the seasoning to stick to wet fries better and create a crispier crust.
- Taste and Adjust Salt
Tap a pinch of the blend onto your tongue and add a little more sea salt if it needs more savory depth.
- Sift for Smoothness
Run the whisk through the mixture one more time to break up any tiny clumps for a consistent finish.
- Store in an Airtight Jar
Transfer the seasoning to a small glass jar or spice bottle and label it with the date so you know when it is at peak flavor.
- Cool Completely Before Using
Let the jar sit at room temperature for an hour if you made it with warm spices, to avoid softening the salt.
- Sprinkle on Hot Fries
Shake a generous pinch over fresh fries right out of the fryer or oven for the brightest flavor and aroma.
- Shake Off Excess
Gently pat or shake off any loose piles of seasoning so the fries are coated but not overly salty.
- Enjoy or Gift
Serve in a bowl for dipping or spoon the blend into a small gift jar tied with twine for a cute homemade present.
Substitutions and variations
- Use kosher salt instead of fine sea salt if that is what you have on hand.
- Replace smoked paprika with sweet paprika for a milder flavor.
- Swap thyme and oregano with 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Leave out the cayenne pepper if you prefer no heat.
Chloe's tips
- For extra crispiness, dust the fries with a light coating of cornstarch before oil frying.
- Keep the seasoning in a cool, dark spot to preserve the fragrance of the garlic and paprika.
- If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne before storing and shake gently to distribute.
How to store it
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
- Avoid humidity by keeping the jar away from the stove or sink.
- Give the jar a quick shake before each use to recombine any settled spices.
Serving suggestions
Serve this zesty blend in a small ramekin alongside your fries for on demand sprinkling.
- Over loaded curly fries for extra surface area to cling to the seasoning.
- On sweet potato fries for a savory kick that balances the caramel notes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this seasoning in a larger batch?
Yes, simply multiply each ingredient by your desired amount and store in a larger airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Is this seasoning gluten free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten free, but double check your cornstarch if you have a sensitivity.
How long does it keep?
For best flavor and aroma, use within 6 months, though it remains safe to use for longer if stored properly.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs can be used but they add moisture; reduce the salt slightly and use about three times as much fresh herb, then dry the mix before storing.
Let's get cooking!
This French Fry Seasoning is quick to mix, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to turn simple fries into a crave worthy snack that everyone will love.
