If you’ve ever bitten into a hot, crispy French fry from McDonald’s, you know there’s something special about that first taste — it’s like a little piece of happiness! Today, I’m excited to share with you my own take on the famous Copycat McDonald’s French Fries. These fries are perfectly golden, delightfully crunchy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside. What makes these fries so irresistible is not just their amazing texture but also the delightful flavor that will beckon your taste buds, making it impossible to stop at just one. Fun fact: did you know that French fries initially gained popularity in Belgium, where locals call them “frites”? My beloved fries bring back fun memories of family outings and movie nights, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Plus, they’re simple to make and ready in a jiffy!
If you’re looking for another delicious recipe here, you might want to check out my homemade crispy onion rings, which share that same satisfying crunch! So roll up your sleeves; let’s dive into making these fantastic Copycat McDonald’s French Fries that everyone in your family will love!

What are Copycat McDonald’s French Fries?
Ah, Copycat McDonald’s French Fries — they’re like the rock stars of the fast-food world! But have you ever wondered why they’re called “Copycat”? It’s not because they mimic someone’s artwork or sneak into the drive-thru line! No, my friends, it’s because these crispy delights bring that iconic McDonald’s fry experience straight to your home kitchen. After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? And what’s better than serving up a plate of perfectly golden fries? You’re bound to make everyone happy with this simple yet fabulous recipe. Give them a try, and let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey!
Why You’ll Love Copycat McDonald’s French Fries
First and foremost, the highlight of this recipe is undeniably the perfect texture — that heavenly crunch followed by a warm, fluffy center is simply second to none! You won’t just savor every bite; you’ll find yourself reaching for another. Another wonderful perk of this recipe is that it’s super cost-effective! Instead of spending your hard-earned cash on fast food, you can whip up a plate of homemade fries just like the pros. Lastly, the flavorful toppings are endless; whether you enjoy them with a sprinkling of sea salt or your favorite dipping sauces, every fry can have its unique flair. Once you try these Copycat McDonald’s French Fries, there’s no going back! And if you’re on a quest to try more crispy goodness, don’t miss out on my baked sweet potato fries!
How to Make Copycat McDonald’s French Fries
Quick Overview
Making Copycat McDonald’s French Fries is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can replicate that fast-food magic in your own kitchen. What’s even better? These fries only take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making them a fantastic choice for a quick side dish. Enjoy the crispy taste and satisfying crunch with every bite — it’s comfort food at its finest!
Key Ingredients for Copycat McDonald’s French Fries
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 cups of vegetable oil (or enough for frying)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Start by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin fries (about 1/4 inch thick) to get that perfect shape.
- Soak the Fries: Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and results in a crispier fry!
- Drying Time: After soaking, drain the fries and use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to thoroughly dry them. Moisture can lead to less crispy fries, so make sure they are well dried.
- Heat the Oil: In a large heavy pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Fries: Carefully add a handful of potatoes to the hot oil. Cook in batches for about 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pot!
- Drain and Season: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. While they’re hot, sprinkle salt over the fries to your liking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your homemade fries hot, and pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for that McDonald’s experience!
What to Serve Copycat McDonald’s French Fries With
Now that you’ve perfected those crispy fries, it’s time to think about what to serve them with! Pair your delicious fries with a juicy homemade burger, classic grilled cheese, or even a fresh side salad to balance flavors and textures. For dipping, consider ketchup, mayonnaise, or even creamy ranch dressing — the possibilities are endless!
Top Tips for Perfecting Copycat McDonald’s French Fries
To ensure your Copycat McDonald’s French Fries turn out crispy and mouthwatering, here are some top tips to follow:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for fries because they have a high starch content, which gives you that fluffy texture inside.
- Soak Time Matters: Don’t skip the soaking step! This is crucial for creating that crunch.
- Don’t Skip Drying: Make sure to pat the fries dry thoroughly; excess moisture will result in soggy fries.
- Fry in Batches: Frying too many fries at one time can drop the oil temperature, leading to a less crispy fry. Fry them in small batches for the best results.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Copycat McDonald’s French Fries (though they’re likely to disappear quickly!), here’s how to store them: place cooled fries in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For reheating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the fries on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Enjoy your homemade fries even days later!
In summary, Copycat McDonald’s French Fries are not just an easy and straightforward recipe, but they are also a perfect way to experience that fast-food favorite from the comfort of your home. So what are you waiting for? Grab those russet potatoes and get frying – you’ll be the fry master in no time!

Copycat McDonald's French Fries
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin fries (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Drain the fries and thoroughly dry them with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a large heavy pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add a handful of potatoes to the hot oil. Cook in batches for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- While they’re hot, sprinkle salt over the fries to your liking.
- Serve your homemade fries hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces.

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