Ranking the Best Fast Food Fries: Experts Reveal the Top 13 Fries Based on Taste and Quality
When it comes to fast food, there’s one side dish that reigns supreme: fries. From crinkle-cut to curly, waffle to shoestring, fast food chains in America have perfected their own unique versions of this beloved snack. But with so many options available, which fries truly stand out from the rest?
Experts at Eat This, Not That! have ranked the top 13 fast food fries, based on taste, texture, and overall satisfaction. Whether you prefer crispy, salty, or loaded with flavor, this ranking will settle the debate on which fast food fries are worth the hype.
13. Arby’s Crinkle Fries
Calories: 250 | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 300mg | Carbs: 32g
Arby’s introduced its crinkle fries in 2021, offering a change from their iconic curly fries. Despite some initial skepticism, these fries have gained popularity for their “accordion-style grooves” that create a crispy exterior and soft interior. Lightly seasoned with kosher salt, they’ve become a fan favorite for their long-lasting heat and crunch.
Taste Test: While they might not have the same flair as Arby’s curly fries, the crinkle-cut fries deliver a reliable crunch that fry lovers crave.
12. In-N-Out Fries
Calories: 360 | Fat: 15g | Sodium: 150mg | Carbs: 49g
In-N-Out might be famous for its burgers, but its fries tend to divide opinions. Made from fresh Kennebec potatoes, these fries are only fried once, leading to a softer, less crispy texture. They cool down quickly, which might leave you unsatisfied if you don't eat them immediately.
Taste Test: Freshness is key here, but the lack of crispiness makes these fries rank lower on the list. However, for those who love the authentic taste of fresh-cut fries, these remain a top contender.
11. WingStop Fries
Calories: 495 | Fat: 21g | Sodium: 620mg | Carbs: 69g
WingStop’s fries are known for their unique seasoning blend, which includes a mix of chili powder, garlic, onion, sugar, and salt. This sweet and savory combination sets them apart from the competition and gives them a rich, bold flavor.
Taste Test: The seasoning adds an extra layer of flavor, making these fries stand out for those who prefer fries with a kick. They pair well with WingStop's signature sauces, enhancing the overall experience.
10. Sonic Groovy Fries
Calories: 290 | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 260mg | Carbs: 33g
Sonic’s groovy fries are a new addition, replacing their previous fries with a thicker cut featuring deep grooves. These grooves are perfect for dipping and hold onto sauces well, making them a great option for those who love to pair their fries with condiments.
Taste Test: While the texture is satisfying, some reviewers feel the fries could use more flavor. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, but may fall short if eaten on their own.
9. Five Guys Fries
Calories: 411 | Fat: 41g | Sodium: 962mg | Carbs: 131g
Five Guys is known for their hefty servings of fries, which are cooked in peanut oil for extra flavor. These fries are double-fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy outer layer and a soft, fluffy interior. They’re also served in generous portions, often spilling out of the bag.
Taste Test: The greasy, flavorful texture makes them both indulgent and satisfying, though they might not appeal to those looking for a healthier option.
8. Culver’s Crinkle Cut Fries
Calories: 220 | Fat: 9g | Sodium: 410mg | Carbs: 32g
Culver’s crinkle-cut fries have deep ridges that capture seasonings and hold dipping sauces better than most other fries. Their crispy shell and tender interior make them a great all-rounder for fry enthusiasts.
Taste Test: These fries are known for staying crispy even after cooling down, making them a perfect choice for on-the-go snacking.
7. Shake Shack Crinkle Cut Fries
Calories: 470 | Fat: 22g | Sodium: 740mg | Carbs: 63g
Shake Shack’s crinkle-cut fries are a fan favorite for their balance of crispiness and saltiness. They’re cooked at high temperatures to ensure a crunchy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. The generous use of salt gives them a bold flavor, especially when paired with ketchup.
Taste Test: The high salt content might be overwhelming for some, but if you’re a fan of salty, crispy fries, Shake Shack delivers.
6. Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Calories: 330 | Fat: 36g | Sodium: 770mg | Carbs: 36g
Taco Bell’s nacho fries are a unique twist on traditional fries, seasoned with Mexican spices and served with a side of nacho cheese. These fries have become a cult favorite for their bold flavors and versatility, often used in loaded fry dishes with cheese, beef, and jalapenos.
Taste Test: Perfect for spice lovers, these fries offer a flavorful kick that’s enhanced by the creamy nacho cheese dip.
5. Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries
Calories: 365 | Fat: 19g | Sodium: 246mg | Carbs: 35g
Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries are known for their large surface area, which makes them perfect for dipping. The crispy outside and soft inside create the perfect texture, and their mild flavor pairs well with a variety of sauces.
Taste Test: These fries are versatile and satisfying, offering a crunchy bite and the ideal structure for holding dipping sauces.
4. Burger King Fries
Calories: 300 | Fat: 13g | Sodium: 220mg | Carbs: 43g
Burger King’s fries are known for their thick-cut style, which offers a fluffy interior and a natural potato taste. A potato-based batter coats the outside, giving them a crunchy texture that holds up well against dipping sauces.
Taste Test: These fries stand out for their sturdiness and subtle flavor, making them a solid choice for those who prefer a classic, no-frills fry.
3. Arby’s Curly Fries
Calories: 410 | Fat: 22g | Sodium: 940mg | Carbs: 49g
Arby’s curly fries have a cult following for their fun shape, crispy texture, and bold seasoning. Coated in a flavorful blend of onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika, these fries offer a unique twist on traditional fries.
Taste Test: The seasoning and crunchy texture make them one of the most flavorful fries on the list, earning them a top-three spot.
2. Wendy’s Fries
Calories: 260 | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 420mg | Carbs: 35g
Wendy’s fries are known for their natural potato flavor, enhanced by their skin-on approach. The sea salt seasoning adds just the right amount of flavor, and Wendy’s offers a guarantee: if your fries aren’t crispy, they’ll replace them.
Taste Test: These fries are crispy on the outside and packed with potato flavor on the inside, offering a satisfying balance between texture and taste.
1. McDonald’s Fries
Calories: 230 | Fat: 11g | Sodium: 190mg | Carbs: 31g
It’s no surprise that McDonald’s takes the top spot with their classic shoestring fries. Lightly salted and fried to a perfect golden crisp, McDonald’s fries have achieved legendary status for their addictive taste and texture.
Taste Test: Crisp, salty, and satisfying, McDonald’s fries are the gold standard of fast food fries and have consistently ranked as the favorite across multiple surveys.
Whether you prefer crinkle-cut, curly, or shoestring fries, there’s no denying that fast food chains have perfected the art of frying potatoes. While McDonald’s reigns supreme, other contenders like Wendy’s and Arby’s are close behind with their unique takes on this iconic side dish. So, next time you’re craving fries, you’ll know exactly where to go for the best taste and quality.
