Golden hand-cut fries tossed with garlic, herbs, and grated Parmesan—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and served with a creamy herb dip for the ultimate snack or side dish. Whether deep-fried or oven-baked, these fries offer irresistible flavor and crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Fries elevate the classic French fry with bold flavors and a gourmet touch. They’re versatile, crowd-pleasing, and easy to prepare using your preferred cooking method—deep-fried or oven-baked. The garlic and Parmesan add a savory richness, while the fresh herbs brighten every bite. Paired with a tangy herb dip, these fries are perfect for serving as an appetizer, side, or party snack.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the fries:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegetable oil for frying (if deep-frying)

For the herb dip:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut into thin fries and place in a bowl of cold water. Soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
2. Drain and dry the fries thoroughly using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth.

To deep-fry:
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the potatoes in batches for 4–5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and season immediately with salt.

To bake:
3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Toss the dried fries with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

7. While still hot, toss the fries with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

To make the herb dip:
8. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, chopped dill or parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

9. Serve the fries warm with herb dip on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30-minute soak)
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Truffle Version: Drizzle truffle oil over the fries instead of olive oil for a gourmet upgrade.
• Spicy Fries: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for heat.
• Cheese Blend: Mix in Pecorino Romano or Asiago with Parmesan for deeper flavor.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different twist.
• Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, shaking halfway through.

storage/reheating

These fries are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or until crisp. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the fries soggy. The herb dip can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Why do I need to soak the potatoes before cooking?

Soaking removes excess starch, which helps the fries become crispier when cooked.

Can I skip the peeling step?

Yes, leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients. Just be sure to scrub the potatoes thoroughly.

What type of potato is best for fries?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content and low moisture, which creates a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.

Can I use pre-cut frozen fries?

Yes, but they may not hold the seasoning as well. Toss with Parmesan and herbs after baking or frying.

How do I keep fries warm while cooking in batches?

Place cooked fries on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven until all batches are finished.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I make the herb dip ahead of time?

Yes, the dip can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the difference between garlic powder and fresh garlic in fries?

Garlic powder mixes evenly and won’t burn in high heat, making it more suitable for this recipe.

Can I use grated cheese from a can?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for better flavor and texture.

How do I make these fries vegan?

Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream for the dip.

Conclusion

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Fries are a flavorful, indulgent treat that you can easily make at home with either a baked or fried approach. With their golden crunch, garlicky flavor, and savory cheese topping, they offer a satisfying upgrade to traditional fries. Serve them with a creamy herb dip for a snack, side, or appetizer that’s always a hit.

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