These Garlic and Parmesan Fries are crispy, tasty, and oh-so-addictive! With a perfect blend of garlic and cheesy goodness, they make a wonderful snack or side dish.
Warning: they might disappear faster than you can say “yum!” I love serving them with my favorite dipping sauce—it’s a great way to sneak a little extra flavor in!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture when baked. If you want, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes; just note that sweet potatoes may cook a bit faster.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. If you prefer or need a lighter option, you can swap it for canola oil or avocado oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds fantastic flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work too, but use about 1 teaspoon to start since it has a stronger taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that cheesy goodness. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, nutritional yeast can be a nice substitute for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Fresh Parsley: I love the fresh touch parsley adds! If you’re out, you can use dried parsley, but sprinkle it in after the fries come out of the oven for the best flavor.
How Do You Get Crispy Fries?
Achieving crispy fries is easier than you might think! Here’s the scoop:
- Soak the Potatoes: Soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, preventing them from sticking together and helping to achieve that crispy texture.
- Pat Them Dry: After soaking, make sure to dry the fries well. Any moisture left on the potatoes can lead to steaming rather than crisping in the oven.
- High Heat: Baking at 425°F (220°C) is key. This high heat helps the fries cook quickly and become golden without absorbing too much oil.
- Single Layer: Spread fries out on the baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate around each fry, giving them that crunchy finish.
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly crispy Garlic and Parmesan Fries every time!
How to Make Garlic and Parmesan Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 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: dipping sauce such as ketchup or aioli
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 1 hour to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 30 minutes soaking and prepping the potatoes, then around 30-40 minutes for baking until they’re crispy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will prevent the fries from sticking and make for easy cleanup!
2. Cut and Soak the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub your russet potatoes to remove any dirt. Next, cut them into thick fries, aiming for about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. For the best crunch, soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, which is key for crispy fries!
3. Dry and Season the Potatoes:
After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel. In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried potato sticks with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor!
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. It’s important not to overcrowd them. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning.
5. Toss with Garlic and Parmesan:
While your fries are baking, mix the minced garlic and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Once the fries are out of the oven, immediately toss them with the garlic-parsley mixture and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, letting the heat from the fries melt the cheese a bit.
6. Season and Serve:
Give the fries a final taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Garlic and Parmesan Fries hot with your favorite dipping sauces on the side—ketchup, aioli, or whatever you love!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Garlic and Parmesan Fries! They’re sure to be a hit.
Can I Use Frozen Fries Instead of Fresh Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen fries can be a great shortcut. Just toss them with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan as directed, but adjust the baking time according to the package instructions, since they often cook faster than fresh-cut fries.
How Should I Store Leftover Fries?
You can store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture. Microwaving can make them soggy, so the oven is preferable!
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with additional flavors. You can add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Cheddar cheese, bacon bits, or even a drizzle of truffle oil make excellent toppings, too!
Are These Fries Gluten-Free?
Yes, the ingredients for these Garlic and Parmesan Fries are naturally gluten-free! As long as you use plain oil and cheese without additives, they are safe for a gluten-free diet.
