Creative fries recipes are a fun way to make a basic side dish even more fun. Although French fries are popular, there are a number of delicious alternatives to the traditional fries. Whether you're craving cheesy nacho fries, creamy avocado fries, healthy carrot fries or crispy halloumi fries, there is something for everyone.

Additionally, those who want to reduce the amount of oil they use will prefer to make fries in the air fryer. These inventive fries ideas can transform a regular meal into a memorable and delicious one whether it's a party, a family dinner or a weekend snack.

Fun Ways to Give Classic Fries a Tasty New Twist

Try different toppings, vegetables, spices, cheeses and cooking methods to make everyday fries more exciting. These simple ideas are great for sharing or serving with meals.

Nacho fries

Great for sharing, these loaded nachos elevate the beloved side dish into a truly gourmet snacking experience. To create this dish: you toss frozen French fries with taco seasoning and bake them according to the packet directions.

When they turn golden and crisp, sprinkle them with fresh tomato salsa and jalapeños, then cover everything with your favorite cheese sauce (from a jar or homemade!) and a generous layer of grated Cheddar or Jack. Brown them in the oven until the cheese bubbles hot and oozes deliciously! Finally, top the nachos with fresh coriander and serve them alongside sour cream and guacamole.

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Avocado fries

And here’s an alternative way to eat avocado, if you normally just mash yours up for toast. Crunchy and creamy in equal measure, avocado fries come with a wow-factor. Halve your ripened (but still slightly firm) avocado, remove the stone and cut into wedges. Dip each piece of avocado into whisked egg, ensuring each piece is coated on both sides let the excess drip back into the bowl and then roll each one in panko breadcrumbs to completely coat.

Place them in a single layer on a baking tray and grill under a pre heated grill (high) at 220C/200C fan/425F/gas mark 7 for 18 minutes, turning the avocado mid-way. Sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper, and serve with hot sauce.

Carrot fries

An easy recipe featuring highly nutritious, sweet-tasting carrots with a crispy exterior makes the carrot fries ideal for accompanying any dish. You will need: 1 lb 2 oz (510 g) of carrots, 2 tbsp of corn flour, black pepper, 4 tbsp of grated mature Parmesan, and 2 tsp of chopped tarragon. First, peel the carrots, and then cut them into slices that are 1 cm thick. Next, place the slices in a bowl and toss them with the cornflour and a generous amount of black pepper.

Spread the carrot slices on a baking sheet in a single layer, then drizzle them with oil and cook them in the oven at 200°C/180°C fan/400°F/gas mark 6 for 40 minutes, turning them midway through the cooking time. Finally, remove the carrot fries from the oven, add the remaining ingredients, and mix everything well.

Salt and pepper fries

For 4 people, you should peel, cut into wedges, and pre-cook 4 big floury potatoes, then drain them and put them onto a baking tray with 4 tbsp of vegetable oil. Bake them in the oven for 25 minutes at 220C/200C fan/425F/gas mark 7.

Next, you should place 1 tbsp of vegetable oil into a frying pan over high heat, then toss in 1 chopped onion, 1 chopped green pepper, 2 chopped cloves of garlic, and 1 sliced red chili. Stir-fry the mixture for about 8 minutes. After that, mix 1 tsp each of Chinese five-spice, caster sugar, crushed Sichuan peppercorns, and salt in a bowl. Toss the chips into the pan with the vegetables, sprinkle the seasoned salt over everything, and then serve the delicious dish.

Air fryer fries

How to make healthier air fryer French fries If you are seeking the perfectly crispy outside and fluffy inside natural French fry, with only a third of the oil used in traditional chips, then look no further. For the most delicious air fryer natural French fry results, you should peel your potatoes, slice them into wedges, and soak them for five minutes in a bowl of cold water.

After draining, place the potatoes in boiling water and leave them for 10 minutes, then drain again, dry them thoroughly, and season well. Next, fry your natural French fries at 180°C in your air fryer for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp, and then serve them directly. We promise you will really notice the difference.

Patatas bravas-inspired fries

You can equally make the ultimate version of this dish of crunchy golden roasted potato chunks with tomato sauce with French fries. Fry a small, diced onion gently in olive oil until tender, then add two chopped garlic cloves, a 227g can chopped tomatoes, 1 tbsp tomato purée, 2 tsp sweet paprika, and 1 tsp of chilli powder and sugar. Simmer this mixture for 10 minutes until thick and pulpy, then scoop your hot sauce onto a bowl of French fries with masses of aioli spread on top.

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Halloumi fries

Grilling halloumi creates a delicious flavor, but the absolute best way to prepare it is by deep-frying! To make enough halloumi chips that can feed four people (along with dip and a refreshing salad), you should slice a 400g (14oz) pack of squeaky cheese into strips, resembling chunky chips.

Next, toss the strips in a bag with 2 tablespoons of plain flour and 1 teaspoon of paprika until they are nicely coated. After that, fill a saucepan about one-third full of sunflower oil and bring it up to temperature by plunging in a piece of bread; the oil is ready in about 30 seconds when the bread turns golden. Then, tip in the halloumi and cook it for 2 minutes, or until it turns golden all over.

Once it is ready, fish out the halloumi with a slotted spoon and leave it to drain on kitchen paper until you’re ready to serve. Finally, serve the crispy halloumi with a vibrant, fresh salad and the best tomato dip for dunking.

FAQs

1. What are creative fries recipes?

Creative fries recipes are different versions of traditional fries made with new ingredients, toppings, seasonings or cooking methods.

2. Which creative fries are good for parties?

Nacho fries are a great party choice because they can be loaded with cheese, salsa, jalapeños, coriander, sour cream and guacamole.

3. Are air fryer fries healthier than regular fries?

Air fryer fries can use less oil than traditional deep-fried fries, making them a lighter option.

4. Can carrots be used to make fries?

Yes. Carrots can be cut into fry shapes, coated with cornflour and seasoning, then baked until crisp.

5. What can be served with halloumi fries?

Halloumi fries work well with a fresh salad and tomato-based dipping sauce.