Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are the perfect side dish for nearly any meal. They offer the crispy texture you love from traditional fries, but with a burst of savory flavor thanks to the rich combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Unlike deep-fried fries, these baked fries are lighter but still deliver a satisfying crunch, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. The blend of garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of fresh herbs elevates the humble potato to something truly special. Whether you’re serving them as a side to burgers, fried chicken, or simply enjoying them on their own, these fries are sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for fries because of their high starch content, which makes them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside when baked. Be sure to cut them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to coat the fries, helping them to crisp up in the oven. It also adds a bit of rich, smooth flavor to the fries.
Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced, infuses the fries with a deep, aromatic flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on your preference for garlic intensity.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the garlic perfectly. It’s essential for that rich, cheesy topping that sticks to the fries.
Dried Oregano: Dried oregano brings a Mediterranean flair to the fries, enhancing the garlic and Parmesan with a warm, earthy note.
Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings enhance the flavors of the fries and ensure they’re well-balanced. Adjust according to your taste.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the fries, as well as a mild herbaceous flavor that brightens up the rich garlic and cheese.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes (if preferred), and cut them into even-sized strips (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick) to ensure uniform cooking.
- In a large bowl, toss the potato strips with olive oil until evenly coated. Then, add minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, and toss again to ensure the potatoes are fully coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the seasoned potato strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure the fries are not overcrowded to allow for even baking and crisping.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot fries, allowing the cheese to melt and adhere to the fries.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
- Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Equipment Needed:
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish. The total cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, including prep time and baking time. It’s a quick and easy recipe that makes for a perfect side with dinner or as a snack.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them back up. You can also reheat them in a skillet on medium heat, flipping occasionally until they regain their crispiness.
Variations and Customizations
Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Mixing a combination of cheeses can add more depth to the fries.
Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for an extra kick. This will add a zesty spice that complements the garlic and cheese.
Herb Variations: While oregano is a great herb for these fries, you can swap it out with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a new flavor. Fresh herbs can be added after baking for a burst of freshness.
Vegan Version: To make these fries vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Sweet Potato Fries: For a healthier twist, swap out the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes. They will add a slightly sweet flavor and a boost of nutrients, but the cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness during baking.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Here’s the nutrition breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Protein (g) | 3 |
| Carbs (g) | 30 |
| Fat (g) | 11 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 2 |
| Fiber (g) | 4 |
| Sugar (g) | 1 |
| Sodium (mg) | 350 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Uniform Size: For evenly cooked fries, try to cut the potato strips to a uniform size. This ensures that they all cook at the same rate and come out crispy.
Crispier Fries: To achieve even crispier fries, consider soaking the potato strips in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This helps remove excess starch, which can make fries soggy, leading to a crispier texture once baked.
Make Ahead: You can prep the fries ahead of time by cutting the potatoes and tossing them with oil and seasonings. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Perfect Dipping Sauces: These fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, ranch dressing, ketchup, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fries for this recipe?
While fresh fries are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen fries. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging and season them with garlic, Parmesan, and herbs after they are baked.
How do I make these fries extra crispy?
For extra crispy fries, try soaking the potato strips in water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch. You can also flip the fries halfway through the baking process for even crisping.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes! You can use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness when baking.
Can I add more flavor to the fries?
Absolutely! Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika, fresh rosemary, or grated lemon zest for an added burst of flavor.
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
You can prep the fries ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just toss them with olive oil and seasonings before baking.
How do I store leftover fries?
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) until they’re hot and crispy again.
Can I make these fries vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the baking sheet?
To prevent sticking, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray.
Can I use other types of cheese for these fries?
Yes! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even mozzarella for different textures and flavors.
How do I know when the fries are done?
The fries are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. You can test a fry by poking it with a fork to ensure it’s tender inside.
Conclusion
Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are a simple yet delicious side dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. With a crispy exterior and a rich, flavorful garlic-Parmesan coating, these fries make the perfect accompaniment to burgers, steak, or roasted meats. The best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy all the flavor with less guilt. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or serving them at a gathering, these fries are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!