I’ve tested steak fries every way imaginable over the years, and this baked method is the one I keep coming back to. It makes crispy edges and a fluffy center without deep frying or extra oil.

Looking for more potato recipes? Try our Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges, Oven Roasted Rosemary Potatoes, and Baked Potato Fries! 

steak fries on a white oval platter. this recipe

Steak fries are a type of thick-cut French fry or potato wedge. Traditionally, they’re deep-fried until crisp on the outside and soft and pillowy in the center.

For this recipe, I skip the deep-frying method and use a baked approach that I make regularly. The key to avoiding soggy fries is starting with a hot baking sheet and a properly heated oven, which creates crisp edges right from the start while keeping the centers fluffy.

I’ve tested this method with both Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes, and both turn out delicious. I bake the fries directly on the pan without lining it, which gives the best browning and texture.

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What are Steak Fries?

Steak fries are a type of thick French fry or potato wedges. Typically deep-fried they’re crisp on the outside yet soft and pillowy in the center.

However, for this recipe, we bake them using a hack that will make the most crispy fries without deep frying. Most often, you will find steak fries seasoned with salt, pepper, and savory herbs and spices. 

Why are they called steak fries?

There is not a clear answer as to how steak fries got their association with the popular meat. However, it is likely because they are typically served with large steaks at steakhouses whereas shoestring fries and French fries are often reserved for burgers. 

Why You’ll Love These Seasoned Steak Fries

  • Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
  • Oven baked: All the steakhouse-style flavor without deep frying.
  • Goes with anything: The perfect side for steak, burgers, chicken, or just about any meal.

Homemade Steak Fries Recipe Ingredients

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

ingredients for steak fries.
  • Potatoes: I like to use Russet or Yukon gold potatoes for homemade steak fries. Both types of potatoes crisp up nicely while remaining soft in the center. Yukon gold potatoes have a slightly more buttery flavor while Russet potatoes are milder and take on the flavor of the seasonings nicely. 
  • Olive Oil: I prefer the stronger flavor of olive oil for this steak fries recipe, but avocado oil also works well. 
  • Seasonings: I like to use homemade steak fries seasoning to add savory flavor with a hint of spice. See below for details, or use any seasonings you like best. 

Homemade Steak Fries Seasoning Ingredients

You can usually find pre-made seasonings in the spice section of your local grocery store, but I much prefer to make my own! It allows you to control the flavor of your steak French fries and is often much more budget-friendly. 

The important thing is to use a blend with chunks of spices. They stick to the fries more easily, add little bursts of flavor and a bit of crunch. Here’s what you need: 

  • Smoked Paprika
  • Garlic Powder
  • Onion Powder
  • Dried Thyme
  • Dried Parsley
  • Kosher Salt
  • Black Pepper

How to Make Steak Fries

You’ll need a rimmed baking sheet for this recipe. The recipe card below has all the details you need. 

tossed potato wedges with spices in a bowl.

Step 1: Toss potato wedges with spices.

raw potato wedges on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Add onto a hot baking sheet and bake until crisp and tender, flipping halfway.

How to Cut Steak Fries

For the best steak fries recipe, cut the potatoes into equal-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly. To do so: 

  1. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise. 
  2. Lay each cut side down, and slice again lengthwise, creating ¾-inch thick wedges. 
  3. Cut the wedges in half if they are long, creating smaller, bite-sized pieces. 

Baked Steak Fries Recipe Variations

  • Garlic parmesan: Toss the hot fries with freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley right after baking.
  • Spicy steak fries: Add chili powder or a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
  • Air fryer method: Cook the fries in a preheated air fryer at 380°F, shaking halfway through, until golden and crisp, about 12-15 minutes.

What to Serve with Steak Fries

This steak fries recipe makes for a great appetizer or snack with dipping sauces like ketchup, barbecue sauce, Ranch, aioli, Greek yogurt onion dip, or avocado dip. 

Or, enjoy it as a side dish with all your favorite main courses such as: 

close up of steak french fries.

How to Store and Reheat Steak Fries

  • To store: Let fries cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
  • To reheat: Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer until hot and crisp, about 5-10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it makes the fries soggy instead of crispy.

Homemade Steak Fries Recipe FAQs

Should I soak potatoes before making steak fries?

Soaking isn’t needed here because the fries bake up extra crispy as is.

Can you make steak fries in the air fryer?

Yes. Cook the steak fries in a preheated air fryer at 380°F, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden, about 12-15 minutes.

How are steak fries different from other fries?

Steak fries are thicker cut, with a soft, fluffy center and crisp edges.

Are these steak fries gluten free?

Yes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

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close up of steak french fries.

Homemade Steak Fries Recipe

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  • Author: Katya
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 35 min
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 1x
  • Category: Side
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

Learn how to make the crispiest steak fries in the oven with a crispy exterior, soft center, and savory flavor in every bite!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • ½ tsp. onion powder
  • ¼ tsp. dried thyme
  • ¼ tsp. dried parsley
  • 1 ½ tsp. kosher salt
  • ½ tsp. black pepper
  • Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Place a rimmed baking sheet inside the oven on the middle rack and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F with the baking sheet in it.
  2. Rinse and dry the potatoes. Feel free to leave the skin on or peel the potatoes. Cut potatoes lengthwise into ¾-inch-thick wedges, then cut the wedges in half crosswise if they are long.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil and spices until well coated.
  4. Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and spray it with a non-stick spray. Do not cover with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
  5. Spread the potatoes on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer with some space around each potato. Bake for 20 minutes then flip the potatoes and baking 12-15 minutes longer or until browned and crispy.
  6. Serve the steak fries hot, with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, crema, aioli, or ranch dressing.

Notes

  • Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4-6 ounces
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1.3 g
  • Sodium: 319.9 mg
  • Fat: 7.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27.3 g
  • Protein: 3.3 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg