Nothing beats a summer BBQ with hot, crispy fries on the side. You want that perfect salty, savory crunch every single time. This French fry seasoning is the secret to restaurant-quality flavor at home. It is so much better than those salty store-bought packets.
It takes only five minutes to mix this up in your kitchen. You likely have all the ingredients in your pantry right now. This simple blend will make your family feel like they are at a fancy bistro. Get ready to transform your regular potatoes into something truly special.
Why This French Fry Seasoning Is a Winner
This blend uses simple pantry staples you already have on hand. It is budget-friendly and much healthier than pre-made mixes from the store. You can control the salt and the spice levels yourself. It adds a beautiful golden color to every single fry.
Your holiday guests or weekend visitors will absolutely love the smoky flavor. It is the perfect way to elevate a simple side dish without extra stress. Plus, it is naturally gluten-free and vegan for everyone to enjoy. You will never want plain salt on your fries ever again.
Simple Method
Making this spice blend is incredibly easy and fast for any cook. You just measure, whisk, and store it for your next meal. Even a total beginner can master this in under five minutes. There is no cooking required to get this bold, savory flavor. It is a foolproof way to make dinner more exciting tonight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are mostly pantry staples that bring a perfectly balanced flavor to your potatoes.
- 2 tablespoons Kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Step-by-Step
- In a small, dry mixing bowl, combine the Kosher salt and smoked paprika.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and ground black pepper.
- Mix in the celery salt and the cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously for 30 seconds until the color is uniform.
- Ensure any clumps in the garlic or onion powder are fully incorporated.
- Transfer the spice blend into an airtight glass jar or spice shaker.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Sprinkle this over hot fries right out of the air fryer. It also tastes amazing on roasted potato wedges or crispy tater tots. For a fun snack, try it on warm buttered popcorn during movie night. Serve your seasoned fries with a side of creamy ranch or spicy mayo. Your kids will keep asking for more of these flavorful bites!
Storage & Reheating
Keep your seasoning in a small glass jar or a dedicated shaker. Store it in a cool, dry pantry for the very best taste. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to six months easily. Just give it a quick shake before you use it each time. This makes it a great recipe for your weekend meal prep routine.
Recipe Tips
- Apply the seasoning while the fries are still glistening with hot oil.
- Use a whisk to break up any tiny clumps of garlic powder.
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika for that deep, rich restaurant color.
- Double the batch if you are hosting a big summer backyard party.
- Store in a glass jar to keep the spices smelling fresh longer.
- Shake the jar well before every use to redistribute the fine salt.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper if you want a milder or spicier blend.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Omit the cayenne pepper if your kids prefer zero heat at all.
- Add a pinch of brown sugar for a sweet and smoky vibe.
- Swap parsley for dried oregano for a Mediterranean twist on your potatoes.
- Use fine sea salt instead of Kosher salt for a different texture.
Common Questions
Can I use this on frozen fries?
Yes, this works perfectly on frozen fries baked in the oven. Just sprinkle it on as soon as they come out of the heat. The warmth helps the French fry seasoning stick to the surface.
Is this seasoning very spicy?
It has a very tiny kick from the cayenne and black pepper. If you are sensitive to heat, simply leave the cayenne pepper out. It will still taste savory and delicious without the spice.
How much should I use per batch?
I recommend using about one tablespoon for every pound of cooked potatoes. You can always add more if you love a bold flavor profile. Start small and taste as you go!
I hope this simple spice blend brings a little extra joy to your table. It is the small touches that make home cooking so special. Give it a try and enjoy those crispy bites!
— Lidia

Best Ever French Fry Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a small, dry mixing bowl, combine the Kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, ground black pepper, celery salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously for 30 seconds until the color is uniform and any clumps in the garlic or onion powder are fully incorporated.
- Transfer the spice blend into an airtight glass jar or a dedicated spice shaker.
- Store the seasoning in a cool, dark, and dry environment to preserve the volatile oils of the spices for up to 6 months.
- To apply, sprinkle approximately 1 tablespoon of the seasoning over 1 pound of hot, freshly cooked French fries immediately after they exit the fryer or oven while the surface oil is still active.
