7 Best and 4 Worst Frozen French Fry Brands You Can Buy

Finding the best frozen French fries can make all the difference when you are craving a crispy, salty snack at home. With so many options in the freezer aisle, it is easy to end up with fries that are either perfectly golden and crunchy or disappointingly bland and soggy. Some brands manage to capture that restaurant-quality crispness, while others fall flat no matter how long you bake them. To help you get your money’s worth, here are some of the best (and worst) frozen fry to get or avoid!

Best: Ore-Ida Crispy Shoestrings

Ore-Ida’s Crispy Shoestrings are a solid choice for those who love thin, fast-food-style fries. Their small size allows for maximum crispiness, making them a great option for dipping. They have a light, salty flavor that pairs well with any meal. These fries cook quickly in both the oven and air fryer, making them convenient. While they do not have extra seasoning, their texture and taste make up for it. The crunch remains consistent even after cooling down slightly. These are a great alternative to traditional fast-food fries without the hassle of leaving home.

Worst: Checkers and Rally’s Famous Seasoned Fries

Despite being advertised as seasoned, these fries surprisingly lack strong flavor. The seasoning is inconsistent, leaving some fries tasting plain while others have too much spice. Their texture is also hit-or-miss, sometimes coming out too soft rather than crispy. They can turn greasy if not cooked just right, which makes them less appealing. Many people find that they do not live up to the fast-food version. While they can be improved with extra cooking time, they are not as reliable as other frozen fry brands. Overall, they do not capture the bold flavor Checkers and Rally’s is known for.

Best: McCain Craft Beer Battered Fries

These fries stand out because of their unique beer-battered coating. The crispy exterior has a slight malty flavor from the craft beer, adding an extra layer of taste. The inside remains soft and fluffy, creating a satisfying contrast. They have a thicker cut, which helps them hold up well to dips and sauces. The batter creates an extra crunch, making them different from regular fries. They take slightly longer to cook, but the texture is worth the wait. These fries are perfect for anyone looking for something a little different from the usual frozen fry options.

Worst: Strong Roots Crispy Skinny Fries

Despite their name, these fries are neither as crispy nor as skinny as expected. Their slightly thicker cut prevents them from achieving the crunch that skinny fries usually offer. The flavor is also quite bland, lacking both salt and seasoning. They take longer to crisp up in the oven, often coming out unevenly cooked. Even when cooked properly, they have a dry texture that is not very enjoyable. While they may appeal to those looking for a more natural fry, they are not as satisfying as other brands. Adding extra seasoning can help, but they still fall short of expectations.

Best: Signature Select Extra Crispy Fast Food Style Fries

These fries live up to their name by delivering an extra crispy bite. Their texture is remarkably similar to classic fast-food fries, making them a great at-home option. The golden exterior stays crunchy, while the inside remains soft and fluffy. They cook well in the oven or air fryer without needing additional oil. The flavor is simple but satisfying, allowing for dipping sauces to shine. While they are not heavily seasoned, they have a slight saltiness that enhances the taste. These fries are perfect for those who want restaurant-style fries at home.

Worst: Lamb Weston Hand Cut Style Fries

Lamb Weston’s Hand Cut Style Fries do not have enough standout qualities to make them memorable. While they have a decent texture, they are not particularly crispy or fluffy. Their flavor is also plain, requiring extra seasoning to make them enjoyable. They tend to fall in the middle, not bad, but not great either. Some people find that they cook unevenly, with some fries turning out too crunchy while others stay soft. They do not have the crispness that many people look for in frozen fries. While they are not the worst option, they are forgettable compared to better brands.

Best: Red Robin Seasoned Steak Fries

Red Robin’s steak fries offer a thick, hearty cut with plenty of seasoning. Their texture is fluffy on the inside while maintaining a crisp outer layer. The seasoning has a slightly garlicky and peppery flavor, which pairs well with burgers and steaks. They do take longer to crisp up in the oven, but the results are worth the wait. The generous cut makes them more filling than traditional fries. While they are already well-seasoned, they also pair well with dipping sauces. These are ideal for anyone who enjoys thick, restaurant-style fries with bold flavors.

Worst: 365 Organic Straight Cut Fries (Whole Foods)

These fries from Whole Foods prioritize organic ingredients but lack the taste and texture of better brands. They have very little salt, making them taste bland unless heavily seasoned. The texture is also underwhelming, as they tend to be soft rather than crispy. While they may be a healthier option, they are not very satisfying for those craving classic French fries. They cook unevenly, with some fries turning overly dry while others remain limp. The lack of crunch makes them a poor substitute for traditional fast-food fries. They are best suited for people who prioritize organic ingredients over taste.

Best: Arby’s Seasoned Curly Fries

Arby’s Seasoned Curly Fries bring their signature flavor straight to your kitchen. They have a perfect balance of crispiness and a well-seasoned, slightly spicy coating. The curly shape adds extra crunch, making every bite satisfying. These fries cook well in both the oven and air fryer, maintaining their crisp texture. The seasoning blend includes garlic, onion, and paprika, giving them a bold, savory taste. Unlike some frozen fries, they do not turn soggy quickly after cooking. They closely resemble the restaurant version, making them a favorite for fast-food lovers.

Best: Alexia Organic Yukon Select Fries

Alexia is known for its natural ingredients, but these fries do not deliver on taste. The Yukon Gold potatoes used in these fries give them a slightly different flavor, but they lack crispiness. They often turn out dry rather than fluffy on the inside. The lack of salt and seasoning makes them taste plain compared to other frozen fries. While they may work well for those who want a natural potato flavor, they are not great for people craving classic fries. They are best served with heavy seasoning or dipping sauces. Unfortunately, their texture and taste do not stand out in a competitive market.

Best: Trader Joe’s Seasoned Waffle Cut Fries

Trader Joe’s Seasoned Waffle Cut Fries bring a bold and crispy twist to traditional frozen fries. Their thick, waffle-shaped cut creates a satisfying crunch while allowing the seasoning to coat every bite evenly. The seasoning blend includes hints of garlic, onion, and paprika, adding a flavorful kick that does not require extra dipping sauces. These fries crisp up well in both the oven and air fryer, maintaining a golden-brown texture without turning too oily. The hearty size makes them perfect for pairing with burgers or enjoying on their own.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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