Learn how to make the best homemade french fries in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. This easy-to-follow pan fry recipe will show you how to achieve the perfect golden brown fries with an irresistible crispy texture.
Pan Fry French Fries On Stovetop
Discover the secret to making perfect french fries with a cast iron skillet. This easy-to-follow recipe will teach you how to achieve crispy and golden brown fries that rival your favorite restaurant’s offerings.
Pan-fried to perfection, these cast iron skillet french fries are the best!
Say goodbye to greasy deep frying and hello to a healthier yet equally satisfying option. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply craving a tasty snack, this crispy fry recipe will surely become a favorite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you love homemade french fries, this recipe prepared in a cast iron skillet will quickly become your go-to. Here is why you will love it:
- Easy Preparation – Minimal prep work. Chop, pan-fry, and season. Chilling the potatoes or letting them soak in water is unnecessary.
- Healthier Option – Pan-fried in coconut oil instead of hydrogenated oils like canola or vegetable oil.
- Delicious – These crispy french fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
- Versatility: – Perfect as a side dish, snack, or party food.
- Budget-Friendly – Economical and cost-effective compared to store-bought alternatives.
- Family Friendly – Kids and adults alike will devour these tasty fries.
Ingredients
To make the best homemade fries, you will need the following ingredients:
- Potatoes – Choose your preferred variety, such as Russet, for the best taste and texture.
- Oil – Use tallow, lard or refined coconut oil for healthier frying of french fries. These oils have high smoke points, unlike olive oil, which should be avoided due to its lower smoke point.
- Salt – Use Celtic salt or sea salt to season the fries. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
- Optional Seasonings – Add seasonings to customize the flavor of your fries. Some popular options include pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Kitchen Essentials You May Need
Here are some essentials you may need for making the best homemade french fries in a cast-iron skillet:
- Cutting Board and Knife (or french fry cutter)
- Large Cast Iron Skillet (or a dutch oven)
- Spider Spoon (or tongs)
- Paper Towels
How to Make Homemade French Fries in a Skillet
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fry french fries in a cast iron skillet:
Peel and Cut the Potatoes
- Start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes to remove any dirt. Peeling the potatoes is optional, but I prefer to leave the peel on since I use organic potatoes.
- Then, cut the potatoes into slices slightly over 1/4″ thick. It is important to try to cut them about the same size to ensure even cooking.
Preheat the Oil
- Place a cast iron skillet on the stove top and add the oil. Preheat the oil to around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit (use a frying thermometer) for the ideal frying conditions.
- To check if the oil is ready, gently drop a small piece of potato into the skillet. The oil temperature is right if it sizzles and begins to fry immediately. If not, allow the oil to heat longer and test again.
Pan Fry the Potatoes
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add a batch of potatoes to the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer, not overcrowded.
- Fry the potatoes in the hot oil for 8 to 10 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Adjust the heat if needed to maintain a steady temperature.
- Continue frying the fries until they reach your desired level of golden brown crispiness. This may take an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fries.
Drain and Season
- Transfer the cooked fries to a paper towel-lined plate with a slotted spoon or tongs. Allow the towels to absorb the excess oil.
- Sprinkle the freshly cooked hot fries with salt or your preferred seasonings. Gently toss the fries to ensure even distribution.
Serve
- Transfer the seasoned fries to a serving dish and serve them immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
- Pair them with ketchup, mayonnaise, honey mustard sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Best Oil For Homemade Healthy French Fries
When it comes to the healthiest choices for frying french fries, these are excellent options to consider:
- Beef Tallow
- Lard
- Coconut Oil
These three options have a high smoke point for frying and provide health benefits such as vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Recipe FAQs
Do You Have to Soak Potatoes Before Frying?
Soaking potatoes before frying is not necessary. Having personally tried both methods, I noticed little difference in the outcome. Therefore, you can skip the soaking step and directly pan fry the french fries.
Can You Fry French Fries in Coconut Oil?
Yes, you can fry french fries in coconut oil. It is important to use refined coconut oil because it has a higher smoke point and less noticeable coconut flavor than unrefined or virgin coconut oil.
How Long to Fry French Fries?
As a general guideline, french fries usually take about 8 to 10 minutes to fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
What Potatoes are Best for French Fries?
Idaho or Russet potatoes are the best potatoes for making french fries. They have a high starch content and low moisture, resulting in crispy fries.
What to Serve With French Fries
Here are some delicious recipes to serve with cast iron skillet french fries:
- Enjoy your homemade fries alongside a juicy burger for a classic combination.
- Enjoy a bowl of creamy mac and cheese as the perfect side dish alongside a juicy burger and crispy skillet french fries.
You can easily make the perfect french fry at home. Choose fresh potatoes and use a cast iron pan to cook them in. These homemade cast iron skillet french fries are the perfect addition to a meal.
So, get ready to enjoy crispy and fluffy home fries right from your kitchen!
Printable Recipe Card
Homemade French Fries in Cast Iron Skillet
Learn how to make the best homemade french fries in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. This easy-to-follow pan fry recipe will show you how to achieve the perfect golden brown fries with an irresistible crispy texture.
Ingredients
- 6 medium to large russet potatoes cut into french fry shape
- 1/2 cup organic unrefined coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon celtic salt or sea salt
Instructions
- Start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes to remove any dirt. Peeling the potatoes is optional, but I prefer to leave the peel on since I use organic potatoes.
- Then, cut the potatoes into slices slightly over 1/4″ thick. It is important to try to cut them about the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Place a cast iron skillet on the stove top and add the oil. Preheat the oil to around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit (use a frying thermometer) for the ideal frying conditions.
- To check if the oil is ready, gently drop a small piece of potato into the skillet. The oil temperature is right if it sizzles and begins to fry immediately. If not, allow the oil to heat longer and test again.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add a batch of potatoes to the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer, not overcrowded.
- Fry the potatoes in the hot oil for 8 to 10 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Adjust the heat if needed to maintain a steady temperature.
- Continue frying the fries until they reach your desired level of golden brown crispiness. This may take an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fries.
- Transfer the cooked fries to a paper towel-lined plate with a slotted spoon or tongs. Allow the towels to absorb the excess oil.
- Sprinkle the freshly cooked hot fries with salt or your preferred seasonings. Gently toss the fries to ensure even distribution.
- Transfer the seasoned fries to a serving dish and serve them immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
- Pair them with ketchup, mayonnaise, honey mustard sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Here are some essentials you may need for making the best homemade french fries in a cast-iron skillet:
- Cutting Board and Knife (or french fry cutter)
- Large Cast Iron Skillet (or a dutch oven)
- Spider Spoon (or tongs)
- Paper Towels
About the Author
Sarah is the author behind Rocky Hedge Farm. With a passion for simple, healthy recipes, gardening, and remodeling her manufactured home, she shares her experiences and knowledge to inspire others. Go here to read her story, “Living a Life of Contentment and Joy: Simple Living at Rocky Hedge Farm.” If you want to message Sarah, visit her contact page here.