Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for getting those fries crispy, so don’t skip this!

Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water. There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh potatoes! After washing, dry them with a kitchen towel.

Now, cut each potato in half lengthwise, then slice each half into wedges or sticks, depending on your preferred fry shape. Aim for uniformity in thickness to ensure even cooking.

In a large mixing bowl, add the cut potatoes. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the fries. Now for the fun part—use your hands to toss them around until every piece is lightly coated in oil. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.

Now it’s time for the spice magic. Sprinkle the smoky paprika, garlic powder, and rosemary over the fries. Add salt or zesty citrus pepper based on your preference. Again, toss everything together until the fries are well seasoned. You want every fry to have a bit of that flavor!

Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are not overcrowded; give them space to breathe for optimal crispiness. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning.

Once they're golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them right away for the best experience. Dipping sauces like ketchup or homemade garlic aioli enhance the flavor as well.