Crispy Mashed Potato Fries: A Golden-Crunchy Side Recipe

Crispy potato fries spark a delightful culinary adventure that will make you crave something extraordinary.

Comfort meets innovation in this reimagined side dish.

Creamy interiors contrasted with golden-brown exteriors create an irresistible texture.

Kitchen experiments often lead to magical moments of deliciousness.

Traditional mashed potatoes transform into a crunchy, addictive treat that surprises everyone at the table.

Simple ingredients come together with minimal effort to produce maximum flavor.

You won’t believe how easy it is to create these magical potato bites that promise to steal the spotlight at any meal.

FAQs

• Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, but fresh potatoes provide better texture and flavor. Instant mashed potatoes might result in less creamy and less authentic fries.

• How do I ensure my mashed potato fries stay crispy?

Coat them thoroughly in breadcrumbs and fry at the right temperature (around 350-375°F). Make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crisp exterior.

• What type of breadcrumbs work best for this recipe?

Panko breadcrumbs are ideal because they create a crunchier, lighter coating compared to traditional breadcrumbs. You can also season them with herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries That Everyone Will Crave

• Reinvent Classic Comfort: Transform traditional mashed potatoes into a crunchy, exciting dish that surprises your taste buds with a delightful texture twist.
• Quick Family Crowd-Pleaser: Easily prepare a fun side dish that kids and adults will love, making mealtime more enjoyable and interactive.
• Versatile Cooking Technique: Discover a simple method to turn leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, golden treat that elevates your regular potato game with minimal cooking skills required.
• Budget-Friendly Creativity: Repurpose ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary snack or side dish that maximizes your kitchen resources without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

• Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that form the base of this crispy fry recipe.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy exterior coating for the mashed potato fries.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth mashed potato texture.
• Milk: Helps to create a creamy consistency when mashing potatoes.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the potato fries.

• Vegetable Oil: Used for frying to achieve a golden and crispy exterior.
• Paper Towels: Helps drain excess oil from the fried potato fries.

How to Make Perfectly Crispy Mashed Potato Fries

Step 1: Boil Potatoes to Perfection

Grab your potatoes and give them a good wash.

Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a rolling boil.

Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

You’ll know they’re ready when a knife slides in smoothly without resistance.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

• Butter
• Milk
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.

Make sure there are no lumps for the perfect texture.

Step 3: Shape Potato Fries

Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly so they’re easy to handle.

Using your hands, carefully shape the mixture into long, thin fry-like strips.

Place them on a clean baking sheet.

Step 4: Create Crispy Coating

Prepare a shallow dish with breadcrumbs.

Roll each potato fry in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they’re completely covered.

This will give them an amazing crunchy exterior.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer.

Carefully place the breaded potato fries into the hot oil.

Fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the fries from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

These potato fries are perfect with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips for Crispy Fries Every Time

• Pat boiled potatoes completely dry to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy fries.
• Refrigerate mashed potato mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to help fries hold their form during frying.
• Select panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and a lighter, more delicate coating on the potato fries.
• Maintain oil at 350-375°F for perfect golden-brown exterior and crispy texture without burning.
• Mix herbs or spices into breadcrumbs for added flavor, like garlic powder, paprika, or dried parsley.

Delicious Variations for Mashed Potato Fries

• Herb-Infused Potato Fries: Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the mashed potato mixture for extra flavor and aromatic depth.
• Cheesy Potato Crisp Sticks: Mix grated cheddar or parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes before forming fry shapes for a rich, tangy variation.
• Gluten-Free Potato Fries: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond meal for a crispy coating that suits gluten-sensitive diets.
• Spicy Southwestern Potato Fries: Incorporate chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika into the mashed potato mixture for a zesty, bold flavor profile.

Serving Ideas to Complement Mashed Potato Fries

• Dip-tastic Party Platter: Serve these crispy potato fries with a variety of dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo, tangy barbecue, or classic ketchup for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Burger's Best Friend: Pair these golden fries alongside juicy burgers or sandwiches as a delicious alternative to traditional french fries, adding a unique texture and homemade touch.
• Brunch Buddy Combo: Top these crispy potato fries with a soft-poached egg, sprinkle of chives, and a dash of hot sauce for an incredible breakfast or brunch side dish that will wow your guests.

How to Store Mashed Potato Fries for Freshness

• Store leftover mashed potato fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual fries in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain best quality and texture.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread fries on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
• Warm fries at 370°F for 3-4 minutes, shaking basket midway to restore original crunchiness and prevent sogginess.

Crispy Mashed Potato Fries Recipe

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4.6 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy mashed potato fries elevate classic comfort food with a golden, crunchy exterior and creamy interior. Seasoned with herbs and spices, these fries offer a delightful twist you’ll crave as a perfect side or snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) milk

Seasonings:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Coating and Frying:

• 1 cup (240 grams) breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly wash potatoes and remove skin using a peeler, then cut into uniform chunks for even cooking.
2. Submerge potato pieces in salted water and boil at medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain potatoes completely and return to pot, allowing excess moisture to evaporate for 2-3 minutes.
4. Mash potatoes with softened butter, incorporating milk gradually to achieve smooth, creamy consistency.
5. Season mashed potatoes with salt and ground black pepper, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors.
6. Allow mashed potatoes to cool slightly, then shape into elongated fry-like strips using wet hands to prevent sticking.
7. Spread breadcrumbs on a flat surface and carefully coat each potato fry, ensuring complete and even coverage.
8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 375°F, creating a consistent, shimmering surface.
9. Carefully lower breaded potato fries into hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan to maintain crisp texture.
10. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until exterior reaches a golden-brown, crunchy finish.
11. Remove fries using a slotted spoon and place on paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
12. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or additional seasoning.

Notes

• Chill the mashed potato mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping to help fries hold their form better.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness and a lighter texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed cornflakes or almond meal.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb coating for an extra flavor boost and enhanced crispiness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg