Fries don’t have to come from a bag or stick to plain potatoes. This list rounds up a mix of homemade, air-fried, oven-baked, and over-the-top loaded fry recipes, plus a few smart veggie swaps for when you want something a little different. From sweet potato and jicama to eggplant and okra, these recipes hit all the textures, crispy, soft, golden, and everything in between. You’ll also find loaded options with chicken alfredo or carne asada, plus truffle-sprinkled batches and spice-heavy versions that make fries the main event. They work as snacks, sides, or full-on meals, and no deep fryer required.

Homemade Sweet Potato Fries

Homemade Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

These fries bake into crisp edges and soft, fluffy middles. Natural sweetness comes through with just a touch of salt and oil. They work with any dip, from garlic mayo to chipotle ketchup. A strong option when you’re skipping the drive-thru.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Sweet Potato Fries

Oven-Roasted French Fries

Oven-Roasted French Fries. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Thick-cut and golden, these are everything you want from homemade fries. A hot oven gives them a satisfying crunch without deep-frying. Toss them with sea salt or a dusting of smoked paprika. Great for piling next to a burger or sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Roasted French Fries

Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

A plate of air-fried sweet potato fries sprinkled with salt.
Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Quick to make and full of flavor, these come out crispy on the outside and soft inside. The air fryer helps them keep texture without too much oil. Sprinkle with chili powder or cinnamon sugar depending on your mood. A smart way to skip the oven on hot days.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Jicama Fries

Jicama Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mild and slightly sweet, jicama gives a fresh take on traditional fries. These hold their shape well when baked or air-fried. Season them with lime and chili powder for a snack with bite. They’re crunchy from the start and don’t go soggy fast.
Get the Recipe: Jicama Fries

Air Fryer Green Bean Fries

Crispy air fryer green bean fries with yogurt dip on a plate.
Air Fryer Green Bean Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lightly coated and crisped up, green beans become surprisingly addictive. These make a solid side dish or appetizer with ranch or spicy dip. Quick cooking keeps them tender without turning soft. A fun way to switch up vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Fries

Portobello Fries

Portobello Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Earthy mushrooms sliced and baked or fried until golden. Their meaty texture holds up under breadcrumbs or parmesan. Serve with garlic aioli or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These bring something a little richer to the table.
Get the Recipe: Portobello Fries

Parmesan Truffle Fries

Parmesan Truffle Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Classic fries tossed in truffle oil and finished with finely grated parmesan. The flavor is bold and salty with an upscale feel. Best served hot and crisp with a creamy dip. These are ideal for sharing, though you might not want to.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Truffle Fries

Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries with dill dip on a plate.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Thick batons of halloumi cheese fried until golden and melty inside. Salty, chewy, and deeply satisfying with a squeeze of lemon. Serve with sweet chili sauce or a cooling yogurt dip. A strong snack option when you want something indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Eggplant Fries

Eggplant Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thin slices of eggplant coated and baked until tender with a crisp shell. These soak up flavors well, so season generously. Pair them with marinara or a herby yogurt sauce. A different way to use eggplant that doesn’t involve pasta.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Fries

Cottage Fries

An overhead image of cottage fries arranged on a plate.
Cottage Fries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Round, thick potato slices baked until browned and crispy. These hold up well to dips and loaded toppings. A slight variation on classic fries but with more surface area for crunch. Serve them straight up or layer with cheese and bacon.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Fries

Masala Fries

Masala Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Tossed in bold Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and chili. These are deep in flavor and a little spicy without being overwhelming. Great with chutneys or a drizzle of lime. They stand out next to grilled meats or as a snack on their own.
Get the Recipe: Masala Fries

Rutabaga Fries

Rutabaga Fries serves in a glass.
Rutabaga Fries. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

A little earthy and slightly sweet, rutabaga gives a different twist. These crisp up nicely in the oven or air fryer. Season with garlic powder and pepper for balance. A quieter fry that still satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries

Grilled Chicken Alfredo Fries

Waffle fries on a red plate topped with grilled chicken, alfredo sauce, and white cheese.
Grilled Chicken Alfredo Fries. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Fries loaded with shredded grilled chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s rich, hearty, and built like a full meal. Add parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan for contrast. This is a fork-and-knife kind of fry dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Alfredo Fries

Louisiana Voodoo Fries

Louisiana Voodoo Fries. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Seasoned fries covered with Cajun-spiced cheese sauce and chopped bacon. Spicy, cheesy, and smoky all at once. Popular at certain fast food chains, but easy to do at home. Keep napkins close—these are messy in the best way.
Get the Recipe: Louisiana Voodoo Fries

Air Fryer Okra Fries

Spiced air fryer okra fries served with a yogurt dip on a plate with fresh parsley.
Air Fryer Okra Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crisped okra without the usual slimy texture. A crunchy coating brings out the best in this Southern staple. Serve with remoulade or a spicy aioli. Great for anyone who wants to try okra a different way.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Okra Fries

Sweet Potato Fries

A basket of seasoned sweet potato fries with a bowl of ketchup in the background.
Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Sliced thin and baked or fried until golden. These balance sweetness and salt in every bite. Delicious on their own or dipped in something creamy. An easy switch-up when you’re over white potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Zucchini Fries

Crispy air fryer zucchini fries in a dish with aioli.
Zucchini Fries. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Zucchini spears coated and baked until crisp outside and tender inside. These soak up seasoning well, so go heavy on the garlic and herbs. Pair them with marinara or ranch dressing. A go-to when zucchini is in season.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fries

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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