Garlic and Parmesan fries are the ultimate side dish! Crispy fries tossed in savory garlic and topped with grated Parmesan make them extra yummy.
They’re perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself (no judgment here!). I love serving them with some ketchup or mayo for dipping—such a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are ideal for fries because of their high starch content, which makes them fluffy inside and crispy outside. If you want a healthier option, you can use sweet potatoes, but keep in mind they have a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the fries get crispy. You can substitute it with avocado oil or even vegetable oil if you prefer. Avoid using extra virgin olive oil for baking, as it has a lower smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work too, but use about 1-2 teaspoons as a substitute to avoid overpowering the fries.
Parmesan Cheese: It gives a salty and nutty flavor. If you lack Parmesan, you could use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist—just sprinkle it on top once out of the oven!
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have it, you could leave it out or use dried parsley; just a little will suffice.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Fries?
The secret to crispy fries lies in a few key steps that are easy to follow. First, make sure to soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which leads to crispier fries.
- After soaking, pat the fries dry with a towel—moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing them out ensures they cook evenly and get that beautiful golden color.
- Flipping the fries halfway through baking is important to achieve consistent crispiness on all sides.
Finally, tossing them immediately in garlic oil after baking gives an added flavor while keeping them crispy. Enjoy your cooking!
Garlic And Parmesan Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. Just some quick chopping, tossing, and a little patience while they bake, and you’ll have delicious fries to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the fries don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Rinse the cut potato fries in cold water to help remove excess starch. This is key for achieving crispiness! After rinsing, pat the fries completely dry with a clean towel.
3. Coat the Fries:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every fry gets coated evenly so they bake beautifully!
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they aren’t overlapping, as this will help them cook evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they are crispy on all sides.
5. Add Flavor:
While the fries are baking, heat a small pan over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
6. Combine and Serve:
When the fries are done baking, toss them immediately in the bowl with the garlic oil to coat evenly. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the hot fries and toss gently to combine.
7. Enjoy:
Serve the fries hot with a side of ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Garlic and Parmesan Fries!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fries for convenience! Simply follow the package instructions for baking time and temperature. If using frozen, you might skip the soaking step since the fries are pre-fried before freezing.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1-2 teaspoons instead. Just remember that garlic powder has a different flavor intensity, so start with less and adjust to taste!
How Do I Make These Fries Healthier?
If you want a healthier version, consider using an air fryer instead of baking. You can reduce the amount of olive oil to 1-2 tablespoons and still achieve great results. You can also try using sweet potatoes for a nutritional boost!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
