Cajun Spiced Fries Spicy Mayo

The smell of Cajun spices hitting hot oil always takes me back to my college apartment, where my roommate and I would experiment with spice blends on Friday nights. We started with store-bought seasoning mix, but nothing beat creating our own. These fries became our go-to comfort food during exam weeks, and I still make them when I need a little kick of nostalgia and flavor.

I brought these to a Super Bowl party last winter, and they disappeared before the halftime show even started. My friend Sarah, who usually avoids spicy food, kept sneaking back to the bowl. Now every time we have a gathering, someone asks if I am bringing those fries. I have learned to double the recipe.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes: Russets have the perfect starch content for crispy fries, and peeling them is totally up to your preference
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the seasoning cling and promotes even browning in the oven
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that gives these fries their deep, smoky undertone
• 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp onion powder: These aromatic foundations build layers of savory flavor
• 1 tsp dried oregano and 1 tsp dried thyme: Classic herbs that round out the Cajun profile beautifully
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper: Start here and adjust based on your heat tolerance
• ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for your dipping sauce, full fat works best here
• 1 tbsp hot sauce: Sriracha adds garlic heat, while Louisiana style brings more vinegar tang

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Soak those potatoes:

Place cut fries in cold water for 20 to 30 minutes, then drain and pat completely dry with towels

Build the coating:

Toss the dried fries with olive oil and all the spices until every piece is evenly coated

Bake to perfection:

Spread fries in a single layer and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden

Whisk up the magic:

Mix mayo, hot sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth

Dive in:

Serve those hot Cajun fries immediately with the spicy mayo on the side

Save

My three year old nephew surprised me all by reaching for a spicy fry, taking a bite, and demanding more. Now whenever I visit, he asks if Auntie brought the red fries. Watching him discover that food can be exciting and flavorful, not just safe, reminds me why sharing home cooking matters.

Making Them Extra Crispy

Soaking the potatoes removes excess starch, which is the secret weapon for restaurant style crispiness at home. I have found that giving them a really thorough pat down with paper towels makes the biggest difference. Any moisture left on the surface will steam the potatoes instead of crisping them.

Customizing Your Spice Level

Cajun seasoning is meant to have some heat, but the beauty of making your own blend is complete control. I usually keep the cayenne moderate in the fries and let people dial up the heat in their dipping sauce instead. That way everyone at the table can find their perfect balance.

Serving Ideas That Go Beyond

These fries shine alongside anything coming off the grill, from burgers to bratwurst to fried chicken sandwiches. But do not be afraid to pile them high with toppings like melted cheese, jalapeños, or even a fried egg for a loaded fry experience. They are hearty enough to stand up to almost anything.

• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the hot fries for color and fresh contrast
• Try sweet potatoes instead of russets for a naturally sweet and spicy variation
• Double the spicy mayo recipe because it goes faster than you expect

Save

There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a sheet of perfectly golden, spicy fries from the oven. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, forks at the ready.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make fries extra crispy?

Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 20–30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch, then pat dry well.

→ Can I adjust the heat level of the mayo?

Yes, increase or decrease the hot sauce to taste to control the spice level in the mayo dip.

→ Are sweet potatoes a good substitute?

Sweet potatoes can be used for a sweeter, earthier flavor and crisp texture when baked similarly.

→ What spices provide the Cajun flavor?

A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper creates the signature Cajun taste.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, but be mindful of allergens in mayonnaise and hot sauce.