Cottage Fries
Cottage fries are crispy, seasoned potato slices baked to perfection, offering a simple, flavorful side dish that pairs well with any meal and appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Coat a baking sheet with Pam or non-stick spray.
- Cut potatoes into 1/2-inch slices and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle generously with paprika.
- Bake at 400°F for 12 minutes.
- Turn the potatoes over.
- Sprinkle with more paprika.
- Bake for another 12 minutes or until lightly brown and fork-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider soaking the sliced potatoes in water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. If you want to spice things up, try adding garlic powder or onion powder alongside the paprika. For a healthier twist, use olive oil instead of non-stick spray for a bit of richness. Be sure to cut the potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Cottage fries make a perfect side dish for a variety of meals, especially alongside Lemon-Fried Chicken or as a hearty snack with your favorite dipping sauce. Serve them with a fresh salad or pair them with Raw Broccoli And Fantastic Dip for a delightful contrast. They also complement burgers or grilled meats beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the cottage fries cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness, instead of using a microwave, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cottage Fries contains roughly 247 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of potassium (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes for cottage fries?
Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal for their starch content, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for different textures and flavors. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of potato used.
How can I make these fries spicier?
To add heat, mix cayenne pepper or chili powder with the paprika before sprinkling it on the fries. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce, such as chipotle mayo, to elevate the flavor profile and satisfy those who enjoy a kick.
Can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely! To make cottage fries in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then arrange the potato slices in a single layer. Cook for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden. This reduces the oil needed and gives you a healthier option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).