Craving a crispy, cheesy twist on classic French fries that you can whip up in your own kitchen? Say hello to Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries—a flavor-packed, oven-baked sensation that never disappoints! These golden fries are every bit as crispy as their deep-fried cousins, but with a savory explosion of garlic and Parmesan right in every bite. Fun fact: this dish traces its roots to creative home cooks who wanted to enjoy their favorite comfort food with a gourmet flair and a little less guilt. You’ll love how easy it is to put this together, with minimal fuss and ingredients you probably already have. Compared to my ever-popular Loaded Cheesy Potato Wedges, these fries are lighter, faster, and just as family-friendly! Get ready to delight your loved ones with this irresistible recipe—let’s dive in and make snack time truly unforgettable.
What is Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries?
Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries might sound like a mouthful, but trust me, it’s a delicious one! Ever wonder who looked at a humble potato and thought, “Let’s dress it up for a night on the town?” That’s essentially what happened here. By tossing crispy baked fries with fragrant garlic and generous Parmesan, you get a side so good, it just might steal the show. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—but with fries this good, you’ll win everyone over! So, are you ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Don’t wait—give this recipe a try and let your taste buds rejoice.
Why You’ll Love This
First, you’ll fall head over heels for the irresistible combination of garlicky aroma and nutty Parmesan—these fries truly elevate the classic fry experience with bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Making these fries at home is not only a treat for your taste buds, it’s a budget-friendly way to bring your favorite restaurant snack right to your family table. You can skip the takeout, save a few dollars, and keep everything wholesome and homemade.
What really sets these fries apart are the layers of flavor: olive oil, fresh parsley, and the beautiful finish of melty Parmesan. Every bite packs a punch! If you loved my Crispy Sweet Potato Fries, you’ll appreciate the same level of crunch and flavor, but with a distinctly Italian twist. Ready to impress everyone at your table? Grab some potatoes and let’s get baking!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are the ultimate answer to your snack cravings. No deep-frying, no complicated steps—just simple ingredients, easy prep, and mouthwatering results. Prep time is minimal, and in under 45 minutes, you’ll have a tray of piping-hot, crispy fries covered in gooey Parmesan and fragrant garlic. This recipe stands out with its fresh parsley garnish and the signature sharpness of seasoned salt. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight side or a crowd-pleasing party snack, these fries are always a win.
Ingredients
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Extra 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional)
Step-by-Step
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, and seasoned salt (if using).
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Cut the potatoes into classic fry shapes—about 1/4-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and toss with the olive oil mixture until evenly coated.
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Add half the grated Parmesan cheese to the potatoes, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper, and toss again to distribute the cheese.
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Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—use a second baking sheet if needed for extra crispiness.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown.
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Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and extra seasoned salt if desired.
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Serve piping hot, and watch them disappear!
What to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries With
These flavor-packed fries shine alongside a juicy burger or classic grilled chicken. They also pair beautifully with salads—try them as a fun side for a crisp Caesar salad or tangy coleslaw. Elevate your snack game by serving them with homemade aioli or a creamy ranch dip. For drinks, think icy lemonade or a chilled craft beer to contrast the warmth and richness of the fries. No matter what you choose, these fries are sure to be the star of your meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting
For the best results, soak your cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking—this removes excess starch and guarantees extra crispness. If you don’t have fresh parsley, swap in dried parsley or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Don’t skip the parchment paper, as it ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this helps every fry get that irresistible golden edge. Finally, don’t be shy with the Parmesan—more cheese means more flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until crispy once again. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make fries soggy. Want to freeze? Lay the fully baked, cooled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag—reheat from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes.
FAQs
How can I make the fries extra crispy?
Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water before baking, then drying them thoroughly, helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work wonderfully—just keep an eye on the baking time, as they can cook a little faster.
What dipping sauces go best with these fries?
Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even spicy ketchup all pair perfectly with the rich and cheesy flavors.
Are these fries gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients (particularly the parmesan) are certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare these fries ahead of time?
You can prep the potatoes and toss them with the oil mixture in advance; just bake them fresh right before serving for the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries truly deliver everything you want in a homemade snack: crispy edges, a garlicky kick, and plenty of luscious melted cheese. They’re easy enough for a busy weeknight and impressive enough for a festive gathering. Whether you serve them as a side, appetizer, or the highlight of your meal, you’ll love the rave reviews they get from family and friends. Now you’re ready to treat yourself to a batch of irresistible fries—enjoy every crunchy, flavor-packed bite!
Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon Seasoned salt (optional)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley
- 4 large Russet potatoes, cut into fries
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup Extra grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon Seasoned salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, and seasoned salt (if using).
- Cut the potatoes into classic fry shapes—about 1/4-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and toss with the olive oil mixture until evenly coated.
- Add half the grated Parmesan cheese to the potatoes, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper, and toss again to distribute the cheese.
- Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—use a second baking sheet if needed for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and extra seasoned salt if desired.
- Serve piping hot, and watch them disappear!