The Core Components of Arby's Homestyle Fries
Arby's homestyle fries stand out on the menu for their simple, classic preparation. Unlike the batter-coated curly fries or the seasoned crinkle fries, the homestyle version prioritizes the potato's natural flavor. While Arby's does not publish a separate, definitive ingredient list for each fry variant, the components can be determined by their general preparation methods and the information provided in their nutritional guides.
Potatoes
The primary ingredient is, of course, potatoes. For the homestyle fry, the potato is cut into a classic, straight-cut shape and prepared for frying. The goal is a hot, golden-brown fry with a fluffy interior, a stark contrast to the denser, pre-battered alternatives. Arby's prioritizes the quality of their potato products, even for their simpler offerings.
Cooking Oil Blend
All of Arby's fried items, including the homestyle fries, are cooked in a specific blend of vegetable oils. This blend is crucial to achieving the desired crispness and color. As of a recent review, the oil consists of:
- Corn Oil
- Soybean Oil
- Canola Oil
- Hydrogenated Soybean Oil
- Dimethylpolysiloxane (an anti-foaming agent)
Seasoning
For the homestyle fries, the seasoning is minimal. A simple sprinkle of salt is applied after frying to enhance the flavor without masking the taste of the potato itself. This is a key differentiator from the complex spice blend found on the curly fries and the specific kosher salt used on the crinkle fries.
Comparison: Homestyle vs. Other Arby's Fries
Understanding the ingredient profile is easiest when comparing the homestyle fries to Arby's other famous fry options. The primary difference lies in the application of a batter and complex seasonings.
| Feature | Homestyle Fries | Curly Fries | Crinkle Fries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Potato Cut | Straight Cut | Spiral Cut | Crinkle Cut |
| Cooking Oil | Corn, Soybean, Canola Blend | Corn, Soybean, Canola Blend | Corn, Soybean, Canola Blend |
| Batter? | No | Yes (Wheat flour, corn meal) | Yes (Rice flour, corn/potato/tapioca starch) |
| Main Seasoning | Salt | Salt, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Spices | Kosher Salt |
| Key Additives | Anti-foaming agent in oil | Leavening, Paprika coloring | Leavening, Color retention, Turmeric |
Potential Allergens and Dietary Notes
For individuals with dietary concerns, it's important to be aware of the ingredients in Arby's frying oil. The oil blend contains soybean oil, which is a major food allergen. Arby's notes that items may be cooked in the same oil as other allergens, and they use highly refined soybean oil. While highly refined soy oil is typically exempt from allergen declaration, those with severe soy allergies should consult their doctor. The absence of a wheat-based batter in the homestyle fries is a key difference from the curly fries and makes them a potential option for those with a wheat sensitivity, though cross-contamination is always possible in a shared kitchen.
Sourcing and Preparation
Arby's commitment to quality starts with the potatoes themselves. After being cut, the raw fries are often blanched (partially cooked) and frozen before being sent to restaurants. The final frying step at the restaurant is what gives them their signature golden-brown exterior. This dual-cooking process is a standard industry practice to ensure consistency and a high-quality product every time.
Conclusion
While they may not get the same fanfare as their curly cousins, the simplicity of what are the ingredients in Arby's homestyle fries is its biggest strength. These fries offer a pure, classic potato flavor, seasoned with just enough salt to satisfy. The preparation focuses on the potato itself, cooked in a consistent vegetable oil blend that includes corn, soybean, and canola oils. For those seeking a less complex, un-battered fry option, Arby's homestyle fries are a perfect choice. For the most up-to-date and official nutritional information, including detailed allergy warnings, it is best to refer to the official Arby's ingredients guide.
Arby's Nutrition, Allergen, Ingredients & Gluten Free Guides
References
EWG's Food Scores | Arby's Crinkle Fries. (2022). ewg.org. Retrieved October 9, 2025, from https://www.ewg.org/foodscores/products/043301612008-ArbysCrinkleFries/ Are Arby's Fries Vegan?. (2022). ZardyPlants. Retrieved October 9, 2025, from https://zardyplants.com/lifestyle/vegan-101/are-arbys-fries-vegan/ Arby's Sides & Sidekickers. arbysmodesto.com. Retrieved October 9, 2025, from https://www.arbysmodesto.com/sides.html Arby's Nutrition, Allergen, Ingredients & Gluten Free Guides. arbys.com. Retrieved October 9, 2025, from https://www.arbys.com/nutrition/ nutrition.pdf - Arby's RVA. (2016). arbysrva.com. Retrieved October 9, 2025, from https://arbysrva.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/nutrition.pdf