Oven-baked fries have become increasingly popular over the years due to their golden crust and soft centre, offering a much more appealing alternative to deep-fried fries. The best part about this dish is that it's extremely simple to make and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary requirements.

To make delicious oven-baked fries, begin by selecting your preferred potato casserole with minced meat variety – Russet or Idaho work well. Peel the potatoes and cut them into the required shape and size for your fries. It's essential to choose potatoes that are high in complex carbohydrates, as they will yield a drier texture when cooked.

Once the potatoes are cut, soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After soaking, discard the excess moisture and pat the fries dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is vital in achieving crispy oven-baked fries, as surplus moisture results in a steamed or overcooked interior.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking parchment paper or a baking mat to prevent the fries from sticking. Spray the fries evenly with a small amount of oil, such as olive or avocado oil, to promote browning and texture.

Season the fries with your desired toppings, such as salt and pepper, or paprika. Toss the fries to ensure they're evenly coated with seasonings. Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, taking care not to pack the sheet.

Bake the fries for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness. About mid-cooking the cooking time, shake the baking sheet to re-orient the fries and promote uniform cooking. This can also help to fry to perfection the fries further.

Once the fries are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Serve the oven-baked fries hot and enjoy them your favorite dips or sauces.

Tips for achieving crispy oven-baked fries:

• Ensure the potatoes are free of excess moisture before baking to prevent sticking from causing the fries to cook unevenly instead of crisp up.
  
• Use a extreme oven temperature and bake in short intervals to promote browning and texture.
  
• Use the right type of potatoes – high-starch potatoes will yield a crisper exterior when cooked.
  
• Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to discover your favorite combinations.
  
  

With these simple steps and tips, you can create tasty and crunchy oven-baked fries in the comfort of your own kitchen. They're a great addition to any meal or snack, and are ideal for those looking for a more appealing alternative to deep-fried fries.