National French Fries Day | From classic to curly: french fry styles and pairings

Whether you call them fries, chips or the original pommes frites, the french fry has been a reliable side in American cuisine for decades. In honor of National French Fries Day this July 12, here are eight ways that you can pair your favorite potato snack with almost any meal:

Keep it classy with Classic Fries:

Served hot and seasoned typically with just salt, classic fries are the traditional, straight-cut potatoes that are of the most popular in the U.S. This drive-thru staple even wins over serious foodies, like Food Writer Julia Moskin, who called the standard American fry, ‘a slim, golden thing of beauty.’ With incredible versatility, these fries go best with a classic, juicy burger or any other hardy sandwich. They also go great dipped in ketchup, mayonnaise, or a tangy mix of the two.

Get extra saucy with Waffle Fries:

These waffle-cut potato slices have a more unique texture and offer extra surface area compared to classic fries. Perfect for dipping in melted cheese or barbeque sauce, the extra crispiness also pairs well with grilled or fried chicken sandwiches. For an even saucier take, try the Zia Fries at an Emmy Squared Pizza in New York City. 

Spice it up with Curly Fries:

The distinctive orange hue of these spiral-cut fries is a testament to the blend of spices that give them a slightly spicy kick. These fries pair nicely with seasoned chicken and a classic hot dog. You can also turn the heat of these fries up or down by dipping them in a spicy aioli or ranch dressing. 

Save room for Sweet Potato Fries:

With a softer texture and sweeter flavor, sweet potato fries are a subtle spin on classic fries. Seasoned with a touch of cinnamon or chili powder, these fries pair well with dishes that have a bit of sweetness or tang. From broiled seafood to barbeque pulled pork sandwiches, these fries also go great with a maple or honey dipping sauce. 

Soak it up with Steak Fries:

The soft, fluffy interior and crispy exterior of these thick-cut wedges are a natural match for their namesake. From ribeye to skirt, almost any steak compliments the herbs and spices that cover steak fries. And with the perfect heft and texture, steak fries soak up and go great with steak juices and sauces in a classic steak frites meal.

Get fancy with Truffle Fries:

This more recent and popular form of french fry has been all the rage across the U.S., especially on social media. The earthy and luxurious truffle flavor pairs nicely with gourmet, wagyu beef burgers, roast beef sandwiches with horseradish cream and au jus and thick-cut steaks like filet mignon. You can even add an extra layer to rich and creamy pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo with sauteed mushrooms or a classic carbonara with a side of truffle fries. 

Have nostalgia with a side of Tater Tots:

Enjoyed on their own or with a variety of meals, these crispy balls of shredded potato are another classic American take on the french fry. Enjoyed at any time of day, tater tots go great with breakfast burritos, casseroles, hot dogs, and its traditional, school lunch partner the sloppy joe sandwich. Tater tots can even be their own dish when mixed with buffalo sauce and dipped in blue cheese or ranch dressings.

Please the crowd with Loaded Fries :

These fries are perfect for parties and sharing as a game-day snack. Topped with a variety of savory ingredients, loaded fries make a great meal of their own. Using any type of french fry as the base, this style of fries can be made exactly to your liking. Popular variations of loaded fries include cheese/chili cheese fries, bacon ranch fries, poutine and carnitas fries. Loaded fries pair well with other shareable dishes like wings, sliders and barbeque dishes. 

What is your favorite style of and pairings for french fries? This National French Fry Day, share your favorite combination on social media.