Cajun Spiced Fries Spicy Mayo

The smell of these fries baking takes me back to a tiny apartment kitchen where my roommate and I would accidentally set off the smoke detector while experimenting with spice blends. We were trying to recreate something we had at this hole-in-the-wall pub downtown, and after three attempts with different potato cuts and spice ratios, we finally nailed it. Now whenever I make Cajun spiced fries, I remember that night, dancing around the waving kitchen towel and eating batch after slightly-burnt batch anyway.

I made these for a Super Bowl party a few years ago, not expecting much since they were just fries, but they disappeared before anything else. My friends brother actually asked for the recipe, which never happens, and now he makes them for his kids who call them the red fries. There is something about that combination of smoky, spicy, and creamy that just makes people happy.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes: Russets have the perfect starch content to get that fluffy inside and crispy exterior we are after
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the spices adhere and promotes even browning in the oven
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides that beautiful red color and adds mild sweetness to the spice blend
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Essential savory depth that makes the coating taste restaurant quality
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile and adds a subtle sweetness
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal note that balances the heat
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a Mediterranean undertone that makes the spices more complex
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: This is your heat source so adjust up or down based on your spice tolerance
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and enhances all the other spices
• 1 teaspoon salt: Crucial for bringing out all the flavors and seasoning the potatoes themselves
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for our dipping sauce, use real mayo for best results
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Sriracha adds garlic notes while Louisiana hot sauce is more vinegary
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Cuts through the richness and adds brightness to the sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a smoky depth to the mayo that pairs perfectly with the fries
• Pinch of salt: Just enough to bring all the sauce flavors together

Instructions

Preheat and prepare your baking surface:

Set your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Cut your potatoes into uniform fries:

Slice the peeled potatoes into 1/4-inch thick sticks so they cook evenly and have the perfect crispy-to-soft ratio

Soak the cut potatoes:

Place the fries in a large bowl of cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and dry them thoroughly

Coat with oil:

Toss the dried fries with olive oil in a large bowl until every piece has a light sheen

Mix your spice blend:

Combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl

Season the fries:

Sprinkle the spice mix over the oiled fries and toss until they are evenly coated with the red seasoning

Arrange for maximum crispiness:

Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overcrowding

Bake until golden:

Cook for 20 minutes, flip each fry, and bake for another 12 to 15 minutes until crispy and lightly browned

Whisk together the spicy mayo:

Combine mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl

Serve them hot:

Plate the crispy Cajun fries immediately with the spicy mayo on the side for dipping

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These fries have become my go-to when I need to feed a crowd because they are impressive enough to feel special but familiar enough that everyone digs in. Last summer my niece asked if I could make the spicy fries for her birthday party instead of ordering pizza, which felt like the ultimate compliment.

Getting the Crispiest Results

Convection bake is your friend here if you have it because the circulating air creates an even crunch on all sides. If you do not have convection, try flipping the fries more frequently or finishing them under the broiler for just a couple of minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.

Making It Your Own

Sweet potatoes work beautifully with this same spice blend if you want something slightly sweeter and more colorful. You can also dial the heat up or down by adjusting the cayenne in the spice mix and the hot sauce in the mayo to suit your crowd.

Perfect Pairings

These fries shine alongside burgers, sandwiches, or even as part of a spread with other appetizers. The spicy mayo also works as a spread for sandwiches or a dipping sauce for onion rings if you have leftovers.

• Double the spice mix and keep it in a jar for quick weeknight potato seasoning
• Try the spicy mayo on grilled fish tacos for an unexpected flavor twist
• Make extra fries because they reheat surprisingly well in a hot skillet or air fryer

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These are the fries that convert people who think oven fries cannot possibly compete with fried ones. Hope they become a regular in your kitchen too.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make fries extra crispy?

Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water removes excess starch, while coating them evenly with oil ensures crispiness. Baking at a high temperature and flipping halfway helps achieve a golden crust. For added crunch, use convection bake or broil briefly.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of the Cajun mix?

Yes, simply vary the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun spice blend to your preferred heat level. The spicy mayo's hot sauce can also be adjusted for a milder or hotter dip.

→ What can I substitute for russet potatoes?

You can use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, softer fry variation. They should be cut similarly and may require slightly different baking times.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the mayo dip?

Yes, you can substitute regular mayonnaise with a plant-based or egg-free mayo to keep the dip creamy and flavorful while avoiding animal products.

→ What is the best way to bake fries evenly?

Arrange the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between pieces. Flip them halfway through baking to ensure even browning and crisp texture.