Frozen Fries: The Guide to Finding the Perfect Side Dish

Finding a quick, simple side dish that the whole family will love can be a challenge. Frozen fries stand out as the ultimate convenient solution. But when faced with an aisle overflowing with options—thin cut, thick cut, oven-ready, unique alternatives—how do you choose? We'll help you sort through the noise to select the ideal product for your meals, appliances, and cravings, without falling for marketing traps.

How to Choose the Best Frozen Fries

To make the right choice in the freezer aisle, here are a few key criteria to keep in mind.

1. Cooking Method: Oven, Deep Fryer, or Air Fryer?

The cooking method is crucial for the final result on your plate.

• Oven-baked fries: Specially designed for this cooking method, they are often pre-cooked and lightly coated to guarantee crispy, golden fries without deep-frying. This is the ideal option for reducing fat and cooking odours.
• The traditional deep fryer: For purists seeking that authentic chip shop taste. Most classic frozen fries are perfectly suited for this.
• Air fryer fries: A star in modern kitchens, the air fryer delivers an incredibly crispy texture with very little oil. Most "oven-ready" fries produce excellent results in an air fryer.

2. The Cut and Variety: Beyond the Classic Fry

The world of frozen sides is much more diverse than you might think.

• Classic fries: Thin and quick to cook, they are a reliable choice that kids always love.
• Steakhouse fries: Thicker and more generous, they offer a delightfully fluffy centre and a rustic texture. They are perfect with a fine cut of beef or a gourmet burger.
• The alternatives: For a bit of variety, consider frozen dauphine potatoes, which are light and fluffy, or get creative with cassava fries for a milder flavour and a surprising texture.

Our Recommended Frozen Side Dishes

We've selected a few tried-and-true favourites and new discoveries, chosen for their taste and simplicity.

MC CAIN Classic Oven Fries 810 g

Why we love them These fries from McCain are the gold standard for a perfect oven-baked result. They deliver a golden exterior and a soft interior, with less fat than deep-frying. Simply a reliable choice.

Advantages

• Made from specially selected potatoes.
• Simple and quick to bake in the oven, with no extra oil needed.
• The perfect balance of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Who are they for? Ideal for everyday family meals, as a side for meat or fish, or simply as a comforting treat.

Goya Cassava Fries (Yuca Fries) 454 g

Why it's a great find Looking for a change from traditional potato fries? These Goya fries, made from cassava (or yuca), are an excellent alternative. Cassava has a surprisingly mild, almost sweet flavour and a unique texture that is both dense and tender.

Advantages

• A unique way to shake up your routine.
• Stunning texture: crispy on the outside, tender and never mealy on the inside.
• Versatile cooking: suitable for the pan, oven, or air fryer.

Who is it for? For the adventurous, fans of Latin American flavours, or anyone looking to surprise guests at a dinner party.

Findus Dauphine Potatoes 200 g

The classic, reinvented Findus's frozen dauphine potatoes are a staple of French cuisine. When cooked, these bites made from mashed potatoes and choux pastry puff up to become incredibly light and airy, with an unmistakably fluffy centre.

Advantages

• The indulgence of a traditional recipe.
• Unmatched lightness and crispiness.
• Perfect with roasted poultry, a dish with sauce, or for festive meals.

Who are they for? For those who want to add a touch of elegance to their dishes effortlessly. A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

McCain Just Oven Steakhouse Fries 810 g

For big appetites These steakhouse fries are specially designed for oven baking. Their thick, rustic cut preserves a fluffy and flavourful centre, while a light coating of sunflower oil ensures perfect crispiness.

Advantages

• A thick cut for maximum fluffiness.
• A light coating guarantees crispiness in the oven.
• A Nutri-Score of B, which is a plus for an indulgent product.

Who are they for? Essential for serving with a homemade burger, a quality steak, or fish and chips. Their generous size makes them a hearty and flavourful side.

Looking for Other Varieties?

Our selection is just a glimpse of what's available. Sweet potato fries, potato noisettes, seasoned potato wedges… the freezer aisle is full of hidden gems. Explore our full range to find your perfect match.

Discover our full range of frozen fries and sides

Frozen Fries: Your Questions Answered

How do I get frozen fries perfectly crispy in the oven?

The secret is a well-preheated oven set to the temperature indicated on the package. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they don't overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate freely and brown them on all sides. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking for an even result.

Can you cook frozen fries in an air fryer?

Absolutely, and the results are often stunning! Most "oven-ready" or dedicated air fryer fries are perfect for this cooking method. Just like with an oven, preheat your appliance, don't overcrowd the basket, and shake it halfway through. The cooking time is often shorter, so follow your appliance manufacturer's instructions.

What's the difference between classic fries and steakhouse fries?

It's all about the size! Classic or shoestring fries are thin (around 7-9 mm thick) and therefore very crispy. Steakhouse fries, which are much wider (often over 10 mm), offer a more rustic texture with a generous, ultra-fluffy centre.