Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers feature crispy, golden potato strips generously coated with a zesty blend of savory spices, delivering a flavorful and crunchy snack that perfectly complements any meal.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (for seasoning)
- Paper towels
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Russet potatoes are ideal for achieving the crispy, golden texture typical of Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers. Using a precise blend of spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, ensures the signature zesty flavor. Cornstarch helps create an extra-crispy coating when frying, so don't skip it. Make sure the oil temperature is properly maintained in your deep fryer to prevent greasy or undercooked fries. You can recreate the taste of Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers at home by carefully following this seasoning and frying technique.
Instructions
- Wash, peel (optional), and cut russet potatoes into fries using a cutting board and chef’s knife.
- Soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes; drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, black pepper, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, white pepper, and cornstarch.
- Toss dried fries in the spice and cornstarch mixture until well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the seasoned fries in batches using fry baskets until golden and crispy, about 3–5 minutes per batch.
- Remove fries from oil with tongs or basket, and drain on paper towels.
- If needed, sprinkle a little extra seasoning while still hot.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers copycat menu replicates the iconic crispy potato strips coated in a bold and savory spice blend. If you don't have russet potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes can serve as a great alternative, providing a slightly creamier texture while still crisping well. When measuring spices, feel free to adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference, ensuring your fries match your desired flavor profile. You can also bake the fries instead of deep frying to reduce oil usage, but expect a less crispy texture. Use paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying, which helps maintain that sought-after crunch.
Tips
Soaking your cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes removes excess starch, ensuring your fries turn out crispier. Pat the fries completely dry before coating them in the spice mixture to help the seasoning stick better and avoid oil splattering during frying. Maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) to achieve a perfect golden crisp without greasy fries. Use tongs or fry baskets to handle the fries safely, and drain them on paper towels to prevent sogginess before serving your favorite seasoned fries hot.
Nutritions
Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers are rich in carbohydrates, primarily from the russet potatoes, providing a quick source of energy. The spice blend adds negligible calories but enhances flavor without added sugars or unhealthy fats. These fries are deep-fried in vegetable oil, contributing to their fat content, including both saturated and unsaturated fats. Be mindful that the seasoned salt increases sodium levels, which may impact your daily intake depending on portion size.
Storage
To preserve the crispy texture of your Famous Seasoned Fries, store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause sogginess; instead, keep the container at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving later. Reheat fries in a preheated oven or air fryer at 400degF (204degC) to restore crispiness before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a natural sweetness that pairs well with the spicy seasoning blend. Instead of deep frying, try baking the fries on a baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway to maintain crispiness and reduce oil use. To intensify the flavor, mix the spices with a tablespoon of olive oil before tossing the fries, ensuring an even coating. Experiment with adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder to introduce a smoky depth that complements the existing zesty profile.
Allergies
Famous Seasoned Fries contain common allergens such as cornstarch, which may cause reactions in individuals with corn allergies, and vegetable oil, which varies by source and could trigger sensitivities if derived from soy or peanut oil. The spice blend includes paprika, garlic, and onion powder, ingredients that might provoke allergic reactions or intolerances in sensitive individuals. Your risk of allergic response increases if you have known sensitivities to any of these components, so reviewing ingredient sources and labels is essential before consumption.
Why this recipe?
People enjoy the Famous Seasoned Fries from Checkers for their unique blend of savory spices that create a crispy, flavorful experience unlike typical fast food fries. The perfectly balanced seasoning enhances the natural potato taste while providing a satisfying crunch, making each bite irresistibly addictive. Attempting to make a copycat version allows you to customize the spice blend and achieve that same crave-worthy texture in your own kitchen. Your homemade version can capture the essence of Checkers' beloved fries while offering freshness and control over ingredients.