Ingredients:

  • 2 lb (900 g) russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) sticks
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) water, for steaming
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil, for coating
  • 1 tbsp (8 g) cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp (3 g) fine salt
  • 2 tbsp (18 g) Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp (16 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, warmed
  • 4 oz (113 g) sharp cheddar, freshly shredded (about 1 cup)
  • 1/4 tsp (0.6 g) cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) hot sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) ranch dressing
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) sticks. Rinse in cold water for about 1 minute, until the water looks less cloudy.
  3. Drain the potatoes and pat them very dry with a clean towel.
  4. Place the potatoes in a large microwave-safe bowl, add 2 tbsp (30 ml) water, and cover. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, until the edges look slightly translucent and a fork slides in with gentle resistance.
  5. Drain the potatoes and spread them on a towel for 2 minutes. Pat them dry, then toss with the oil, cornstarch, and fine salt until a light, dry coating clings to each stick.
  6. Spread the fries in one layer on the prepared sheet, leaving space between them. Use a second sheet if they do not fit in one layer.
  7. Bake for 12 minutes. Flip each piece with a spatula, then bake 10 to 13 more minutes, until deep golden and crisp at the edges.
  8. While the fries bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until it smells slightly nutty.
  9. Slowly whisk in the warm milk. Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  10. Remove the pan from the heat. Add the cheddar in handfuls, whisking until smooth after each addition. Stir in the cayenne, garlic powder, and hot sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk.
  11. Move the hot fries to a large bowl. Sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning and toss until evenly coated.
  12. Arrange the fries on a platter. Drizzle with the warm cheese sauce and the ranch, then scatter the green onions on top. Serve right away while the fries are crisp.