Garlic and Parmesan fries are the perfect side dish! Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries are tossed in tasty garlic and topped with cheesy Parmesan.
They are super simple to make, and I can’t help but munch on them while they’re hot. Pair them with your favorite dip, and you’ll be in fry heaven! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet potatoes: Russets are great because they come out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. If you can’t find them, other potatoes like Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes can work. Just adjust the baking time slightly!
Olive oil: This adds flavor and helps the fries crisp up. You can substitute with canola or vegetable oil if you prefer. If you’re a fan of flavor, avocado oil is another great option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in taste. If you have garlic powder instead, use about 1 teaspoon. But fresh is always best for that punchy garlic flavor!
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that cheesy goodness. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar flavor. Just check for meltability!
Fresh parsley: Use parsley for freshness and color. If you don’t have it, you can skip this or substitute with some dried Italian herbs or basil.
How Do I Make Sure My Fries Are Extra Crispy?
Getting crispy fries is all about moisture and even cooking. After cutting your potatoes, rinse them under cold water to remove the excess starch, which helps them become crispier in the oven. Pat them dry thoroughly—moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Preheat your oven well. A hot oven ensures they start cooking right away.
- Spread the fries in a single layer, avoiding crowding to let the heat circulate around each fry.
- Turn them halfway through baking. This helps achieve that golden brown all over.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy Garlic and Parmesan fries every time!
How to Make Garlic And Parmesan Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake, so in total, set aside about 40 minutes to enjoy your delicious Garlic and Parmesan fries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help your fries get extra crispy! While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with oil.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and peel them if you prefer. Now, cut them into thin, even sticks that look like classic fries. Aim for a uniform size so they cook evenly.
3. Remove Excess Starch:
After cutting the potatoes, rinse them under cold water to get rid of some of the starch, which can help them crisp up in the oven. Once rinsed, dry the potatoes thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
4. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the cleaned and dried fries with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure every fry is coated well so they all get that delicious flavor!
5. Bake the Fries:
Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have space around them; this helps them to get crispy all over. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through so they don’t stick and cook evenly.
6. Add the Toppings:
Once the fries are golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the hot fries so they melt slightly and stick on.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Gently toss the fries to combine the cheese and parsley without breaking them. Serve hot with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious, crispy, garlicky, cheesy fries!
Can I Use Frozen French Fries Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen French fries instead of fresh potatoes! Follow the cooking instructions on the package for baking them, but add the garlic and Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the flavors to meld without burning.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic and Parmesan Fries?
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and pop them back in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 10 minutes to get crispy again.
Can I Make These Fries in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Toss the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your fries! Try adding paprika, cayenne for heat, or Italian seasoning for more flavor. Freshly cracked pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can also elevate their taste!
