Waffle Potato Fries from Chick-fil-A feature crispy, golden-brown potato slices cut into a distinctive crisscross pattern, delivering a perfect combination of crunchy edges and soft, fluffy interiors seasoned with a hint of savory salt.
Equipments
- Mandoline slicer with waffle (crinkle-cut) blade
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep fryer or heavy-duty pot
- Frying thermometer
- Slotted spoon or frying spider
- Paper towels
- Baking sheet or tray
- Colander
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Kosher salt
- 2 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Kosher salt
Russet potatoes are ideal for making Waffle Potato Fries due to their high starch content, which ensures a crispy exterior and fluffy interior after frying. Using a mandoline slicer with a waffle or crinkle-cut blade is essential to achieve the signature crisscross pattern that differentiates these fries. Vegetable oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil, is recommended for deep frying to maintain consistent heat and produce evenly golden fries. Seasoning the fries with kosher salt immediately after frying enhances their savory flavor without overpowering the natural potato taste. Your homemade Waffle Potato Fries from Chick-fil-A copycat menu will deliver the perfect balance of crunch and softness, replicating the original iconic side dish.
Instructions
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes.
- Slice potatoes into waffle shapes using the mandoline slicer (rotate the potato 90 degrees after each slice).
- Place sliced potatoes in a large mixing bowl and rinse under cold water.
- Drain potatoes in a colander.
- Soak potatoes in fresh cold water for 20-30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and pat potato slices thoroughly dry with paper towels.
- Pour vegetable oil into deep fryer or heavy-duty pot; heat oil to 350°F (175°C) using frying thermometer.
- Fry potato slices in batches, without overcrowding, for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove fries with slotted spoon or spider, transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet or tray to drain excess oil.
- Immediately season hot fries with kosher salt.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Waffle Potato Fries from Chick-fil-A copycat menu replicate the iconic crispy, golden-brown potato slices with a unique crisscross cut, offering crunchy edges and soft interiors. If a mandoline slicer with a waffle blade is unavailable, you can manually cut potatoes into thin, evenly sized slices and use a crinkle cutter to mimic the texture. Vegetable oil is ideal for deep frying to achieve the perfect crispiness, but you may substitute with peanut or canola oil depending on flavor preference or dietary needs. Maintaining the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF is crucial for frying evenly without absorbing excess oil. After frying, draining on paper towels and seasoning immediately with kosher salt ensures your fries stay crispy and flavorful for your enjoyment.
Tips
Use a mandoline slicer with a waffle blade for even, crisscross-cut potato slices that cook uniformly and crisp up well. Thoroughly soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 20-30 minutes to remove excess starch, preventing fries from sticking together and achieving optimal crispiness. Make sure to pat your potato slices completely dry before frying to avoid dangerous oil splatter and to ensure they fry evenly. Fry in small batches at a steady 350degF (175degC) to maintain oil temperature and prevent soggy fries, seasoning immediately after frying to maximize flavor absorption.
Nutritions
Waffle Potato Fries from Chick-fil-A are made from russet potatoes, offering a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber essential for energy and digestive health. Frying in vegetable oil adds calories from healthy fats but should be enjoyed in moderation to maintain balanced nutrition. Kosher salt enhances flavor but increases sodium content, which may impact blood pressure if consumed excessively. You can enjoy these crispy fries as an occasional treat while balancing your overall diet with nutrient-rich foods.
Storage
Store your Waffle Potato Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Before reheating, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 400degF (205degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid storing fries in a sealed plastic bag without ventilation, as this can cause sogginess due to trapped moisture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutrient-rich variation. Try seasoning your fries with a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to add smoky, savory, and spicy notes to your fries. For a healthier cooking method, consider baking the waffle-cut potatoes on a greased baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, to achieve a crispy texture without frying. Using an air fryer set to 375degF (190degC) can also yield crispy fries with less oil, preserving the potato's natural flavor and texture.
Allergies
Waffle Potato Fries from Chick-fil-A contain potatoes and vegetable oil, which are generally safe but may pose allergy risks if the oil is derived from common allergens like soybean or peanut oil. Cross-contamination with other allergens can occur during preparation in shared kitchen environments. Always check ingredient labels and inform staff about your allergy to ensure safe dining.
Why this recipe?
Waffle Potato Fries from Chick-fil-A offer a unique texture with crispy edges and a tender interior, delivering a satisfying crunch and flavor that sets them apart from regular fries. Their distinctive waffle shape maximizes surface area, enhancing crispiness and seasoning absorption, making each bite flavorful. The fries are seasoned just enough to complement Chick-fil-A's iconic sauces, creating a perfect balance that your taste buds will appreciate. Trying to make this copycat recipe at home lets you enjoy that crave-worthy taste while customizing seasoning to your preference and controlling ingredient quality.