Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries

 

Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries – Crispy, Golden, and Unbelievably Flavorful

Few things in life rival the joy of sinking your teeth into a batch of crispy, golden fries fresh out of the oven—especially when they’re infused with roasted garlic, dusted with Parmesan cheese, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. These Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are everything you crave in a fry—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and bursting with rich, savory flavor. The best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge guilt-free while still satisfying that classic comfort food craving.

Whether you’re serving them as a side for burgers, a party snack, or simply treating yourself to something special, these fries are guaranteed to be the star of the table.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

• 4 large russet potatoes – Russets are the best choice for fries due to their starchy texture, which helps achieve a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the fries bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crunch.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the fries with a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick and balances the richness of the cheese.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a smoky depth of flavor and beautiful color.
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star topping that adds savory, nutty flavor and irresistible crispiness.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Brings freshness and color to the final dish.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra garlic intensity if you’re a true garlic lover.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes (you can leave the skin on for extra texture if preferred). Cut them into evenly sized sticks—about ¼ inch thick—to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Soak for Crispiness
Place the potato sticks in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, which helps the fries crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly
Drain and pat the potatoes completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. Moisture is the enemy of crisp fries, so make sure they’re as dry as possible.

Step 4: Season and Coat
In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the fries in a single layer (avoid overcrowding). Bake for 20 minutes, flip them over, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Remove the fries from the oven and immediately toss them with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot. The heat will melt the cheese slightly, creating a savory coating. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

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Why These Fries Are Loved

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are a winning combination of crisp texture, rich garlic flavor, and savory cheesiness that makes them impossible to resist. Unlike fried versions, these fries are light and wholesome, yet still indulgent. The garlic-Parmesan blend gives them a gourmet touch that elevates them far above ordinary fries.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Fries

• Soak the potatoes – This step is essential for removing starch and ensuring maximum crispiness.
• Don’t skip the flip – Turning the fries halfway ensures even browning and crunch on all sides.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt or crisp as well as freshly shredded.
• Add garlic after baking for extra flavor – If you prefer a stronger garlic punch, toss in extra minced garlic right after baking.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries hot and fresh from the oven with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy ketchup. They pair beautifully with grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or even a fresh Caesar salad for a satisfying meal.

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Conclusion

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries prove that you don’t need a deep fryer to achieve crispy, restaurant-quality fries at home. With a few simple ingredients and an easy baking method, you can enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness in every bite. They’re easy, irresistible, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries them. Once you make these, you’ll never look at regular fries the same way again!

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