Types of Fries
Not all fries are cut the same, and the cut changes the crunch, the soft center and how well a fry holds sauce. Here are the main types of fries, how they differ, and what to order them with. Freddy’s serves shoestring fries, so we also look at what makes that cut stand out.
If you want ideas for toppings and dips, see our guides to Freddy’s Chili Cheese Fries and Freddy’s Fry Sauce.
Types of Fries at a Glance
| Type | Shape | Texture | Great With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoestring | Very thin straight sticks, about 1/4 inch | Very crisp and light | Burgers, fry sauce, chili and cheese |
| Classic straight cut | Medium sticks, about 3/8 inch | Crisp outside, fluffy inside | Everyday side for any meal |
| Steak fries | Thick, wedge-like cuts | Soft and fluffy with a lighter crust | Sandwiches and thick dips |
| Crinkle cut | Wavy ridged sticks | Extra crisp edges that hold sauce | Dipping and cheese sauce |
| Waffle fries | Lattice with open holes | Crisp and airy | Loaded toppings |
| Curly fries | Spiral cuts, often seasoned | Crunchy and spicy | Snacking |
| Potato wedges | Skin-on wedges | Hearty and soft | Sour cream and ranch |
| Sweet potato fries | Sticks of orange sweet potato | Sweeter and softer | Spicy or smoky sauces |
Sizes are approximate and vary by restaurant. Tater tots are shredded and formed potato pieces, so they are a cousin of fries rather than a fry cut.
Why Shoestring Fries Stand Out
Thin cuts have more surface area compared with their soft middle, so they turn crisp quickly and stay light. The tradeoff is that shoestring fries cool fast and are best eaten right away. They also pair well with strong toppings because the fry itself does not overpower a sauce. You can read how they work with chili and jalapeño cheese sauce on the chili cheese fries page.
Best Potatoes for French Fries
Russet potatoes, often sold as Idaho potatoes, are the usual choice for French fries. Their high starch and low moisture give a fluffy center and a crisp outside. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamier texture and a slightly buttery flavor, but they brown a little differently. For the crispest home fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water, dry them well and fry them twice.
How to Choose Your Fry
Pick a thin cut for crunch, a thicker cut for a softer bite and a ridged or waffle cut when you plan to add sauce. Menu details change by restaurant, so check the official Freddy’s menu for what is currently offered.
Types of Fries by Cooking Method
The types of fries on a menu are not only about the cut. Cooking method matters too. Deep-fried fries have the crispest crust, oven-baked fries are lighter, and air-fried fries land in between. Battered or coated fries stay crunchy longer because the coating forms a shell around the potato.
| Method | Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Deep fried | Crisp outside, fluffy inside | Restaurant-style fries |
| Oven baked | Lightly crisp, drier | Easy home cooking |
| Air fried | Crisp with less oil | Quick snacks |
| Battered or coated | Extra crunchy shell | Delivery and takeout |
Seasonings and Toppings for Every Fry Cut
Different types of fries pair with different extras. Thin fries suit simple salt and a dip like Freddy’s Fry Sauce, while thick cuts and wedges hold up to chili, cheese or sour cream. Waffle and crinkle fries have more surface area, so they catch more sauce.
If you like loaded styles, try Freddy’s Chili Cheese Fries. For something crunchy and shareable, the Freddy’s Onion Rings page covers another popular side. Knowing the types of fries helps you match the cut to the topping.
Conclusion
The best fry is the one that matches your meal: shoestring for a crisp side with a burger, crinkle or waffle for dipping, and wedges when you want something hearty. Knowing the types of fries helps you order with confidence. Anyone managing a food allergy should check the official nutrition and allergen information before ordering.
