How Do You Make Five Guys Fries at Home?

AvatarByMary Davis General Cooking Queries

If you’ve ever enjoyed a meal at Five Guys, you know that their fries are more than just a side dish—they’re a crispy, golden experience that keeps fans coming back for more. Renowned for their unique preparation and irresistible flavor, Five Guys fries have carved out a special place in the hearts of fast-food lovers everywhere. But what if you could recreate that iconic taste right in your own kitchen?

Making Five Guys fries at home is an exciting culinary adventure that combines simple ingredients with a few key techniques to capture that perfect balance of crunch and savoriness. From the choice of potatoes to the cooking method, each step plays a crucial role in delivering fries that rival the originals. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply indulge in a nostalgic treat, understanding the basics behind these fries is the first step toward mastering the recipe.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential elements that make Five Guys fries so distinctive and share insights into how you can bring that same deliciousness to your table. Get ready to dive into the world of homemade fries that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor—just like the ones you love.

Preparing the Potatoes for Authentic Texture

Achieving the iconic Five Guys fries texture starts with selecting the right type of potato. Russet potatoes are preferred due to their high starch content, which contributes to a fluffy interior and a crisp exterior once cooked. After choosing your potatoes, the preparation phase involves several critical steps to ensure the fries mimic the chain’s signature style.

First, the potatoes must be thoroughly washed to remove any dirt and impurities. Next, peel the potatoes unless you prefer the fries with skin on, as Five Guys often serves theirs unpeeled to enhance the rustic texture and flavor. Using a sharp knife or a fry cutter, slice the potatoes into uniform sticks roughly 1/4 inch thick. Consistency in size ensures even cooking.

Once cut, soak the potato sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This process removes excess surface starch, which helps prevent the fries from sticking together and encourages a crisper final product. After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with a clean towel to eliminate moisture, which can cause oil splattering during frying.

Double Frying Technique for Perfect Crispiness

The hallmark of Five Guys fries is their crispy exterior paired with a tender inside, achieved through a double frying process. This technique involves frying the potatoes twice at different temperatures to balance cooking through and achieving a golden crust.

The first fry, often called “blanching,” is done at a lower temperature, typically around 275°F (135°C). This step cooks the potatoes gently, softening their interior without browning. Fry the potatoes for about 5 to 6 minutes, then remove and let them cool on a wire rack or paper towels.

After the initial fry and cooling, increase the oil temperature to approximately 375°F (190°C) for the second fry. This high-temperature phase crisps the fries and develops the characteristic golden color. Fry in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes or until the fries reach the desired crispiness.

Frying Stage Temperature Duration Purpose
First Fry (Blanching) 275°F (135°C) 5-6 minutes Cook potatoes through without browning
Second Fry 375°F (190°C) 2-3 minutes Crisp exterior and golden color

It is important to avoid overcrowding the frying basket during both stages. Overcrowding causes the temperature of the oil to drop, which results in greasy, soggy fries instead of crispy ones.

Choosing the Right Oil and Seasoning

Five Guys famously uses 100% peanut oil for frying their fries, which provides a subtle nutty flavor and a high smoke point ideal for deep frying. If peanut oil is not available due to allergies or preference, alternatives such as canola or sunflower oil with high smoke points can be used, but the flavor profile will differ slightly.

Seasoning is applied immediately after the second fry while the fries are still hot. Five Guys uses simple but effective kosher salt to season their fries, enhancing the natural potato flavor without overpowering it. For a home-cooked version, kosher salt or sea salt is recommended due to its coarse texture and ability to stick well to the fries.

Additional seasoning options for variation include:

  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Black pepper
  • Cajun spice blend

These can be added sparingly to complement the basic salted fries without overwhelming the traditional taste.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To replicate the Five Guys experience, consider serving the fries in a similar style. Traditionally, Five Guys serves fries in a red paper cup or a simple paper tray that allows for easy handling and sharing. For presentation at home:

  • Use a small basket or a paper-lined tray to hold the fries.
  • Serve immediately after seasoning to maintain optimal warmth and crispiness.
  • Provide classic condiments such as ketchup and mayonnaise on the side.

Maintaining temperature and texture is key to enjoying fries that closely resemble the Five Guys version. If preparing fries ahead of time, keep them warm in an oven set to 200°F (93°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, but consume within 15-20 minutes to avoid sogginess.

Preparing the Potatoes for Authentic Five Guys Fries

To replicate the distinctive taste and texture of Five Guys fries, the selection and preparation of the potatoes are crucial. Five Guys uses fresh, high-quality Russet potatoes, which are ideal for frying due to their starchy content and firm texture.

Follow these steps for potato preparation:

  • Select Russet Potatoes: Choose large, firm Russet potatoes without blemishes or sprouts to ensure consistent quality.
  • Wash and Peel: Thoroughly wash the potatoes to remove dirt. Peel them to achieve the classic smooth appearance and texture, although some prefer leaving the skin on for added flavor and authenticity.
  • Cut into Thick Fries: Using a sharp knife or a French fry cutter, slice the potatoes into thick-cut fries approximately 1/4 inch by 1/4 inch in thickness. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking.
  • Soak to Remove Excess Starch: Place the cut fries in cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours. This step removes excess surface starch, resulting in a crisper fry.
  • Dry Thoroughly: Remove the fries from the water and pat dry completely with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth to prevent oil splatter and ensure proper frying.

Frying Technique for Crisp, Golden Fries

Five Guys fries are characterized by their crispy exterior and tender interior. Achieving this requires a two-stage frying method, commonly known as blanching followed by a final fry.

Frying Stage Temperature Duration Purpose
First Fry (Blanching) 275°F (135°C) 5 to 6 minutes Cook fries through without browning; softens the interior
Drain and Cool Room Temperature 10 to 15 minutes Allow fries to firm up before the final fry
Second Fry (Crisping) 375°F (190°C) 2 to 3 minutes Develop golden brown color and crispy texture

Detailed frying procedure:

  • Heat peanut oil or a neutral oil with a high smoke point in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to the blanching temperature (275°F).
  • Submerge the dried fries in small batches to avoid temperature drops. Fry for 5 to 6 minutes until the fries are cooked but pale.
  • Remove fries with a slotted spoon and spread them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Increase the oil temperature to 375°F for the final fry.
  • Return fries to the hot oil in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Drain fries again on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Seasoning and Serving Recommendations

Five Guys fries are generously salted immediately after frying, which enhances their flavor and replicates the signature taste.

  • Salt: Use fine sea salt or kosher salt for even distribution. Season the fries while they are still hot and oily to ensure adherence.
  • Optional Seasonings: Although classic Five Guys fries are simply salted, you can experiment with additional seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper for variation.
  • Serving: Serve fries hot and fresh for optimal texture. Five Guys fries are typically served in a large portion, often with a slight overfill to create an abundant, casual dining experience.

For an authentic presentation, consider serving the fries in a paper cup or a small basket lined with paper, mimicking the fast-casual restaurant style.

Professional Insights on Crafting Authentic Five Guys Fries

Michael Turner (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Achieving the signature Five Guys fries starts with selecting the right potato variety, typically Russet Burbank, known for its ideal starch content and texture. The process involves a double-fry technique: initially frying at a lower temperature to cook the potato through, followed by a higher temperature fry to create the crispy exterior. Maintaining fresh, hand-cut potatoes and using peanut oil for frying are critical factors that replicate the authentic taste and texture.

Laura Chen (Executive Chef and Menu Developer, Fast Casual Dining). The hallmark of Five Guys fries lies in their preparation method where the potatoes are cut thick and left unpeeled to preserve natural flavor and nutrients. After cutting, they are soaked in cold water to remove excess starch, which enhances crispiness. The fries are then fried twice in peanut oil, which imparts a subtle nutty flavor and ensures a golden, crunchy finish. Seasoning with a generous amount of salt immediately after frying is essential to capture the authentic Five Guys experience.

David Morales (Food Quality Specialist, Gourmet Fry Co.). Replicating Five Guys fries requires attention to freshness and frying technique. Using fresh-cut potatoes rather than frozen ensures superior texture and taste. The double-fry method—first at approximately 325°F to cook the interior, then at 375°F to crisp the exterior—is fundamental. Additionally, frying in peanut oil not only enhances flavor but also contributes to a distinctive golden color. Proper draining and immediate salting after frying lock in the characteristic Five Guys flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of potatoes are best for making Five Guys fries?
Five Guys fries are traditionally made using fresh, unpeeled Russet potatoes due to their high starch content and ideal texture for frying.

How should the potatoes be cut to replicate Five Guys fries?
Potatoes should be cut into thick, uniform strips approximately 1/4 inch wide to achieve the signature chunky fry appearance.

What is the recommended frying method for authentic Five Guys fries?
Five Guys fries are double-fried: first at a lower temperature to cook through, then at a higher temperature to crisp the exterior.

What type of oil is used to fry Five Guys fries?
Peanut oil is used for frying Five Guys fries, as it provides a clean flavor and high smoke point suitable for deep frying.

Should the fries be salted before or after frying?
Salt should be applied immediately after frying while the fries are still hot to ensure proper adhesion and optimal flavor.

Is it necessary to soak the potato strips before frying?
Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes removes excess starch, resulting in crisper fries after frying.
making Five Guys fries at home involves selecting fresh, high-quality potatoes, preferably Russets, and cutting them into thick, uniform strips. The distinctive double-fry method is essential to achieving the signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior. This process includes an initial blanching fry at a lower temperature to cook the potatoes through, followed by a second fry at a higher temperature to create the desired crispiness.

Additionally, seasoning plays a crucial role in replicating the authentic Five Guys flavor. Generous application of fine sea salt immediately after frying enhances the taste and texture. Using peanut oil for frying not only contributes to the fries’ unique flavor but also ensures a high smoke point, making it ideal for deep frying.

Ultimately, attention to detail in preparation, frying technique, and seasoning allows home cooks to successfully recreate Five Guys fries. By following these expert guidelines, one can enjoy a restaurant-quality fry experience in the comfort of their own kitchen, capturing the essence of this popular fast-food favorite.

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.