The Ultimate Homemade Curly Fries Recipe: Crispy, Golden, and Totally Irresistible

There’s something uniquely satisfying about curly fries. Their twisty shape, crunchy texture, and flavorful seasoning make them a favorite at diners, fast-food joints, and now—your home kitchen. If you’ve ever wondered how to make restaurant-quality curly fries from scratch, you’re in for a treat. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a foolproof homemade curly fries recipe, share tips and tricks, and explain how to achieve that perfect crisp every time.

Whether you're planning a cozy weekend snack or a fun side dish for burger night, this curly fries recipe is sure to impress.

What Makes Curly Fries So Special?

Curly fries aren’t just regular fries in a different shape. Their iconic spiral form offers more surface area, which means more crunch and more seasoning. Plus, the playful texture makes them appealing to both kids and adults alike. They're the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, salty, and savory—a snack that rarely disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the process, let’s gather the essentials. This recipe yields about 4 servings of delicious homemade curly fries.

For the Fries:

4 large russet potatoes

Cold water (for soaking)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup water (adjust as needed to form a batter)

Tools You’ll Need

Spiralizer or curly fry cutter – This is essential to get those signature twists.

Large bowl (for soaking)

Medium bowl (for batter)

Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan

Slotted spoon or spider strainer

Paper towels (for draining)

Step-by-Step Curly Fries Recipe

Step 1: Spiralize the Potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes if desired. Many prefer to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Using a spiralizer or curly fry cutter, slice the potatoes into spirals. If you don’t have a curly fry cutter, you can slice them thinly and create ribbons, but for that classic shape, the spiralizer is your best friend.

Step 2: Soak the Spirals

Place the spiralized potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps make the fries crispier.

Pro Tip: If you want even crispier results, soak them overnight in the fridge.

Step 3: Make the Seasoned Batter

In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and all the spices: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Slowly add water and whisk until a smooth, thick batter forms—think pancake batter consistency.

This batter is the secret to achieving that crispy, flavorful coating on your curly fries.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches and maintains the right temperature. This prevents the fries from becoming greasy.

Step 5: Batter the Fries

Drain the soaked potatoes and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dip the spirals into the batter, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.

Step 6: Fry to Perfection

Carefully drop the battered curly fries into the hot oil in small batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan—this can reduce the oil temperature and lead to soggy fries.

Fry each batch for about 4-6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle with a pinch of extra salt while hot and serve immediately. Curly fries pair perfectly with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Alternative

Want a healthier version? Try air-frying your curly fries!

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Spray the basket with oil.

Toss battered fries in a light coating of oil and cook in batches for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

While they won’t be quite as crispy as deep-fried, they’re still delicious and far lower in fat.

Tips for the Best Homemade Curly Fries

1. Choose the Right Potato: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content and low moisture, which leads to crispier fries.

2. Soak the Potatoes: Don’t skip the soaking step—it’s crucial for achieving maximum crunch.

3. Spice It Up: Adjust the seasoning in the batter to match your preferences. Want a smoky flavor? Add more paprika. Love heat? Extra cayenne does the trick.

4. Fry Twice (Optional): For extra crispy fries, you can do a double fry—first at 325°F to cook through, then again at 375°F for a crispy finish.

Perfect Pairings for Curly Fries

Wondering what to serve with curly fries? They go well with:

Burgers or sliders

Chicken tenders or wings

Vegan patties

Grilled sandwiches

BBQ platters

Or just enjoy them on their own as a satisfying snack!

Final Thoughts

Making homemade curly fries isn’t just about taste—it’s about the fun of creating something unique and delicious from scratch. With a little prep and a few pantry staples, you can bring this restaurant favorite to your own kitchen and wow your family and friends.

So grab those potatoes, fire up the fryer, and get ready for some golden, spiral goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake curly fries instead of frying them?

A: Yes! Bake them at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be as crispy as fried but still taste great.

Q: What’s the best oil for frying curly fries?

A: Use neutral oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Q: Can I make curly fries ahead of time?

A: You can spiralize and soak the potatoes in advance, but for the best texture, fry them fresh before serving.