Del Taco Crinkle Cut Fries
Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 servings
Del Taco is one of the few fast food spots that serves crinkle cut fries instead of straight-cut, and honestly, it’s a power move. The ridges hold more seasoning, they get crispier edges, and they’re just more fun to eat. The seasoning is a simple blend of garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne.
The oven method here gets them remarkably close to the real thing. The trick is high heat, a single layer, and tossing them in oil before the seasoning so everything sticks.
Crinkle Cut Fry Secrets
- Frozen is fine — actually, it’s better. Del Taco uses frozen fries too. The ice crystals on frozen fries create steam pockets that help the interior stay fluffy while the outside crisps up.
- The wire rack trick. Elevating the fries on a wire rack over the baking sheet lets hot air hit all sides. It’s the difference between crispy fries and soggy fries.
- Don’t thaw them first. Straight from the freezer to the oven. Thawing makes them waterlogged and limp.
Budget Breakdown
A medium fry at Del Taco costs around $2.50. A two-pound bag of frozen crinkle cut fries costs $3-4 and makes about four servings. That’s $0.75-1.00 per serving with the seasoning included. You’ll also have leftovers.
