These crispy Garlic and Parmesan Fries are a tasty side dish you’ll love! They’re perfectly seasoned with garlic and topped with cheesy, nutty Parmesan.
Every bite is a crunchy delight that makes you want more. I can’t help but serve them with dips—what’s your favorite? 🍟
Making these fries is super easy! Just bake or fry them until golden, sprinkle on the garlic and cheese, and enjoy! They’re perfect for sharing or, you know, not. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the go-to for fries due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior. If you’re in a pinch, Yukon Gold potatoes work too, giving a buttery flavor.
Olive Oil: Using olive oil adds a nice flavor, but if you don’t have it, vegetable oil or canola oil is a great substitute. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available. Just use about 1/8 tsp of garlic powder per clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish. If unavailable, Pecorino Romano can be substituted for a stronger taste, or you could use pre-grated varieties for convenience.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a fresh touch. For a different flavor, consider using fresh basil or chives. Dried herbs can work in a pinch too, but use them sparingly.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Getting crispy fries can take a little extra effort, but it’s worth it! The main secret is soaking the potatoes. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cutting the potatoes into fries, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch.
- Drain and thoroughly dry the fries with a towel. Moisture will prevent crispiness.
- If frying, keep the oil temperature consistent. Fry in small batches so the temperature doesn’t drop.
- If baking, spread the fries evenly on the sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping.
Finally, remember to toss the fries with the garlic oil while they’re hot. This helps the flavors stick and enhances the crunch!
How to Make Garlic and Parmesan Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil for frying)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: ketchup or garlic aioli for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic and Parmesan Fries recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes for soaking and either 20-25 minutes for baking or about 10 minutes for frying. The total time will be around 1 hour, giving you perfect fries to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Once they are clean, cut them into thin, uniform strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Soak the Fries:
Place the cut fries into a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps make the fries crispy. After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel to remove any moisture.
3. Cook the Fries:
You can choose to either fry or bake your fries:
- If frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in small batches for about 3-4 minutes until they are lightly golden but not fully cooked. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
- If baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the dried fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
4. Prepare Garlic Oil:
In a small pan, gently heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but isn’t browned. Remove it from the heat.
5. Final Fry / Crisping:
Return the fries to the fryer or oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are fully crispy and golden brown.
6. Season the Fries:
Quickly toss the hot fries in a large bowl with the garlic oil, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to ensure even coating.
7. Serve:
Serve your Garlic and Parmesan Fries warm. Feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for a finishing touch! They pair beautifully with ketchup or garlic aioli for dipping.
Enjoy your crispy, savory Garlic and Parmesan Fries!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Russet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes make a tasty alternative for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so watch them closely while baking or frying.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic. Just remember that the flavor won’t be quite as robust!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C) to revive their crispiness, or enjoy them in a microwave if you don’t mind them being softer.
Can I Make These Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cut fries and soak them in water ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to drain and pat them dry before cooking for the best results!
