Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into thin, even strips. Aim for approximately 1/4 inch thickness for the best texture.
Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
Drain the potatoes and pat them dry using a kitchen towel or paper towels.
In a separate bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
Place the dried potatoes in a large mixing bowl and drizzle them with vegetable oil. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated with oil.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the potatoes and toss again, ensuring that every fry is coated with the spices.
Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for better air circulation and results in crispier fries.
Bake the fries in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then carefully flip them over using a spatula. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the fries turn golden brown and crispy.
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the fries to cool for a few minutes. This will enhance their crispiness.
Serve your homemade crispy oven-baked French fries immediately as a delightful side dish or snack. They pair perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or even on their own with your preferred dipping sauce.