These Garlic and Parmesan Fries are crispy, golden, and full of flavor! Tossed in fresh garlic and sprinkled with cheesy Parmesan, they’re a tasty treat for any occasion.
Who can resist the smell of fries cooking? I always make a little extra because they disappear fast. Perfect for sharing—if you’re feeling generous! 😄
I love serving these fries alongside a burger or just enjoying them as a snack. They’re so easy to make and always hit the spot when I crave something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which makes them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. If you can’t find russets, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, though they might be creamier.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil if you’re looking for a more neutral taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) in its place, but fresh will always give that zing!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful cheesy kick, but feel free to swap with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness, but if you don’t have parsley, you can use other fresh herbs like oregano or basil for a different twist.
How Do You Make the Crispiest Fries?
To get those perfect crispy fries, soaking them is key. This step removes excess starch, leading to a crunchier texture. Follow these important steps:
- Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to draw out the starch.
- After soaking, drain the potatoes and dry them thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Spread the fries in a single even layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Don’t skip flipping them halfway through baking. This helps all sides get evenly golden and crispy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be enjoying the crispiest Garlic and Parmesan Fries in no time!
Garlic and Parmesan Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 30 minutes for baking. You’ll need to soak the potatoes, so make sure to account for that 30 minutes, but the steps are easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your fries will be nice and crispy once they hit the heat!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash your russet potatoes thoroughly and peel them if you prefer (peeling is optional). Cut them into even sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.
3. Soak the Potato Sticks:
Place the cut potato sticks into a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. Soaking removes excess starch, giving you that perfect crispiness.
4. Dry the Potatoes:
After soaking, drain the potatoes well. Then, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them very dry. Moisture can lead to soggy fries, so this step is really important!
5. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss your dried potato sticks with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until they’re well coated. Make sure every piece gets some love!
6. Bake the Fries:
Spread the potato sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Spacing them out helps them crisp up better. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the edges.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once baked, take the fries out and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley evenly over the hot fries. Toss them gently to combine, so that the cheese melts a little bit.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Garlic and Parmesan Fries hot, with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce on the side if you like. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
These Garlic and Parmesan Fries are sure to be a hit—crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-yummy!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Recipe?
While fresh russet potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen fries as a shortcut! Just skip the soaking step and bake them according to the package instructions, then add garlic and Parmesan right after baking.
How Do I Make These Fries Spicier?
For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes to the oil when tossing the fries. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika on before baking to give them an extra spicy flavor!
Can I Store Leftover Fries?
Yes! Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Get creative! You can add toppings like crumbled bacon, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or switch out Parmesan for other cheeses like cheddar or feta for a unique twist!
