Crispy Mashed Potato Fries (Printable)

Golden, crunchy exterior with fluffy seasoned mashed potato inside. Easy to make, perfect for snacking.

# What You'll Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 2.2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

→ Dairy & Eggs

02 - 1/4 cup whole milk
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 - 1 large egg

→ Seasonings

05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1 tsp onion powder
07 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
08 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ For Frying

09 - 2 cups vegetable oil (if frying)

→ Optional Garnishes

10 - Chopped fresh parsley
11 - Grated Parmesan cheese

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook for 15-18 minutes until fork-tender.
02 - Drain potatoes well and return to pot. Mash until smooth.
03 - Stir in butter and milk until fully incorporated. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cool for 10 minutes.
04 - Add egg to cooled mashed potatoes and mix thoroughly.
05 - Transfer mixture to piping bag fitted with large star tip, or shape by hand into fry-like sticks.
06 - For baking: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Pipe or arrange potato sticks on sheet. Lightly brush with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. For frying: Heat oil to 350°F. Carefully lower fries in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
07 - Serve hot, garnished with parsley or Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They transform humble leftovers into something that feels like restaurant food
  • The exterior crunch against that fluffy interior creates the most satisfying texture contrast
02 -
  • Cold mashed potatoes shape infinitely better than warm ones, so don't rush this step
  • Cornstarch dusted lightly before cooking creates that extra-crispy shell everyone loves
03 -
  • Dont overcrowd the pan when frying or the oil temperature will drop and you'll end up with soggy fries
  • A candy thermometer is worth the small investment for maintaining consistent oil temperature