Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers/Rally's feature crispy, golden-cut potatoes generously coated with a signature blend of bold, zesty seasonings, delivering a flavorful and crunchy snack that perfectly complements any meal.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (optional, for oven preparation)
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Colander (for rinsing potatoes, if making from scratch)
- Knife (for cutting potatoes, if making from scratch)
- Cutting board (if making from scratch)
- Measuring spoons (for seasonings)
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 cups vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
When preparing seasoned fries similar to Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries, using large russet potatoes is essential for achieving the ideal crispy texture. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a perfect coating that enhances crunchiness during frying. Carefully measuring spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper ensures a balanced bold and zesty flavor profile. Utilize fresh seasonings and maintain oil temperature at around 350degF for the crispiest results. Your homemade version will closely replicate the bold taste and crunch of Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries from the Checkers/Rally's copycat menu.
Instructions
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes (if desired); cut them into fry shapes.
- Rinse cut potatoes in cold water using a colander to remove excess starch.
- Pat fries dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, sugar, oregano, parsley, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and baking powder.
- Toss dried potato fries in the dry seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry potatoes in batches, using fry baskets, for 3-5 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Remove fries with tongs and transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Substitution
Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers/Rally's copycat menu deliver the same bold, zesty seasoning and crispy texture as the original, transforming simple russet potatoes into a flavorful snack. If you don't have a deep fryer, you can achieve a similar crunch by baking the fries on a baking sheet at 450degF, flipping occasionally for even crispiness. Using a mix of cornstarch and flour creates a light coating that crisps up well, but you can substitute either with rice flour for a gluten-free option. If fresh potatoes are unavailable, frozen fries with added seasoning can work as a convenient alternative. To maintain maximum crispiness, always drain fries on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil before seasoning.
Tips
Ensure your russet potatoes are patted completely dry after rinsing to prevent excess oil splatter during frying. Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain oil temperature precisely at 350degF (175degC) for optimal crispness without sogginess. Toss the fries evenly in the seasoned flour mixture to guarantee balanced flavor on every bite. When removing fries from oil, use tongs carefully and allow them to drain on paper towels to keep your Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries crispy and delicious.
Nutritions
Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries are primarily made from russet potatoes, providing a source of carbohydrates and some dietary fiber. The fries are deep-fried in vegetable oil, which increases their calorie and fat content, including unsaturated fats depending on the oil type used. The seasoning blend, containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs, adds minimal calories while enhancing flavor and offering small amounts of antioxidants and vitamins. You should consider portion size to balance the fries' indulgent taste with your nutritional goals, as they are high in sodium and fats.
Storage
To maintain the crispy texture and bold flavor of Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries, store any leftover fries in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess. Keep the container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, reheating them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 400degF (200degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore crunchiness. Avoid storing fries at room temperature to preserve freshness and prevent bacterial growth, ensuring your snack stays delicious when enjoyed later.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, try substituting sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes to add a natural sweetness and boost your intake of vitamin A. You can also experiment with baking the fries on a preheated baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway to achieve a crispy texture without deep frying. Adjust the seasoning blend by including smoked paprika or cumin for an earthier flavor profile. Lightly spraying the fries with oil before baking helps ensure a golden finish similar to the deep-fried version.
Allergies
Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries contain wheat-based all-purpose flour, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to gluten or with wheat allergies. The seasoning blend includes garlic and onion powder, common allergens that can cause discomfort for those with related sensitivities. Your health is important, so review ingredient labels carefully if you have known food allergies before enjoying these fries.
Why this recipe?
Checkers Famous Seasoned Fries are celebrated for their bold seasoning blend that delivers a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors, making them a standout choice among fast-food fries. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior create a satisfying texture that keeps customers coming back for more. Your copycat version allows you to replicate that irresistible taste and crunch at home, saving money while enjoying a favorite snack anytime. Replicating this recipe showcases your culinary skills and offers a delicious, homemade alternative to a popular fast-food treat.