Sides
Chick-fil-A Inspired Waffle Fries
Thick lattice-cut potatoes soaked, dried, and fried twice for fluffy centers, crisp golden ridges, and plenty of surface for dipping sauce.
Inspired by Chick-fil-A
Prep
25 min + soak
Cook
15 min
Serves
4 servings
Difficulty
Medium
Cooking Tools
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Uses the current servings and temporary recipe changes.
Missing 4 ingredients
- • 4 large russet potatoes
- • Cold water for soaking
- • Peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying
- • 1 teaspoon fine salt
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- 4 large russet potatoesMissing
- Cold water for soakingMissing
- Peanut oil or vegetable oil for fryingMissing
- 1 teaspoon fine saltMissing
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Method
Recipe notes
The rotating mandoline cut creates the lattice, while soaking removes surface starch that otherwise encourages sticking. Complete the first fry for every batch before raising the oil for the final crisping fry.
Planning, storage, and serving
Storage and reheating
Refrigerate cooled fries for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 400 F oven or air fryer until crisp; freezing once-fried, cooled potatoes works better than freezing finished fries.
Make-ahead tips
Cut and soak potatoes in the refrigerator up to 8 hours. Drain, dry, and complete the first fry up to 2 hours ahead, then finish at 375 F just before serving.
What to serve with it
- - Chicken sandwiches
- - Chick-fil-A Inspired Sauce
- - Fresh lemonade
Equipment needed
- - Mandoline with waffle blade
- - Heavy pot and frying thermometer
- - Wire rack and sheet pans
Difficulty explained
The specialty cut and two-stage oil temperatures require attention, but the ingredient list is short.
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Nutrition facts
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Alternatives
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Canola oil
Use canola oil in the same amount for high-heat frying.
Yukon Gold potatoes
Use an equal weight of Yukon Gold potatoes.
Canola oil
Use canola oil in the same amount.
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Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- A mandoline is extremely sharp; always use its hand guard and stop before the potato becomes too small.
- Wet potatoes cause dangerous oil splatter and prevent crisp browning.
- Overcrowding drops the oil temperature and makes the lattice slices limp.
Nutrition Context
- Potatoes provide carbohydrate and potassium, while deep-frying adds most of the fat and energy.
- A smaller portion alongside protein and vegetables creates a more balanced meal than fries alone.
FAQ
How do I make the waffle shape?
Use a crinkle or waffle mandoline blade and rotate the potato a quarter turn between every slice.
Why soak the potatoes?
Soaking removes excess surface starch, helping the fries separate and crisp more evenly.
Can I skip the first fry?
The double fry gives fluffy centers and crisp ridges; one fry often browns outside before thick centers soften.
What oil should I use for a peanut allergy?
Use fresh vegetable or canola oil and check all labels and cross-contact information appropriate to your needs.
How do I keep them crisp?
Drain on a rack rather than paper towels and hold briefly in a 225 F oven without covering.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Good pairings include Chicken sandwiches; Chick-fil-A Inspired Sauce; Fresh lemonade. Choose one or two based on how substantial you want the meal to be.