Oven-Baked French Fries

Step 1 -Preheat the oven to 475 degrees F.

Step 2 -Place the potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with hot tap water.

Step 3 -Soak the potatoes for 10 minutes.

Step 4 -Drizzle the oil onto a rimmed non-stick baking sheet, allowing the oil to coat it evenly.

Step 5 -Drain the potatoes.

Step 6 -Evenly spread the potatoes onto several layers of paper towels. Use more paper towels across the top and pat/press to dry them thoroughly.

Step 7 -Evenly sprinkle the oiled baking sheet with 3/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. If the oil has pooled in certain areas, tilt the pan to spread it evenly before salting.

Step 8 -Spread the potatoes into an even layer onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

Step 9 -Cover the baking sheet tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 10 -Bake the potatoes for 5 minutes, and remove the foil.

Step 11 -Continue to bake until the fries are spotty golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Step 12 -Scrape the fries loose from the pan with a thin metal spatula and flip them over. Make sure they remain spread evenly.

Step 13 -Continue to bake until the fries are fully golden, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 14 -Spread the fries on paper towels to drain.

Step 15 -Season with additional salt to taste.

Step 16 -Serve with your desired sauces.