Oven Baked Cheesy Potatoes

Step 1

In a small mixing bowl,combine cornstarch and water. Stir well,until cornstarch dissolved. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan,combine melted butter and all-purpose flour. Cook over medium high heat,stirring,for 5 minutes,until mixture turns golden brown. Add chopped garlic and continue to cook for a further 30 seconds.

Step 3

Add beef and chicken broth and,stirring,bring to a boil. Stir in cornstarch mixture,then reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens. Season to taste with black pepper and salt if necessary. Set sauce aside and keep warm.

Step 4

Place potato sticks in a large pot. Add enough cold water to cover by 2 inches (5 cm). Add vinegar and bring pot to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and place cooked potato sticks on paper towel to absorb moisture. Move potatoes to a wire rack,in a single layer,and allow to dry completely.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 435 F (215 C) with the racks in the upper and lower third of the oven. Arrange dried potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss well to coat. Spread potatoes evenly onto 2 baking sheets,leaving some space between potato sticks.(be sure you place them in a single layer)

Step 6

Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes,then turn the fries over and rotate the baking sheets top to bottom. Bake for a further 20-30 minutes,then rotate pan top to bottom once more, until golden brown.

Step 7

In a large bowl,combine fried potatoes and reserved warm sauce. Toss well to coat. Sprinkle with cheeses and fresh herbs. Toss well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper. Serve hot.