How to Make Perfect Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful fries without the hassle of deep frying? Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries offer a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise taste or texture. Discover how this easy-to-make recipe can elevate your meals and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients (Serving 6)

• 3 Large Russet Potatoes
• 3 Tbsp. Olive oil
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 2 tsp. Minced garlic
• 1 Tbsp. Parsley flakes
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Cut the russet potatoes into long, thin french fry shapes.
3. Season the Fries: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut potatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss until the fries are well-coated.
4. Bake: Spread the fries in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, stopping to toss and flip the fries halfway through.
5. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the fries and return to the oven for 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the fries are golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with parsley flakes, and serve hot.

Helpful Tips

• Uniform Sizing: Cut the fries evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Crispier Fries: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet to prevent them from steaming and becoming soggy.

Substitutions/Variations

• Potatoes: Swap russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
• Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative.
• Seasonings: Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen fries for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen fries. Toss them with the seasonings and bake according to the package instructions, adding Parmesan cheese towards the end.

Q: How do I make these fries extra crispy? A: For extra crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water, pat them dry, and bake at a high temperature without overcrowding the baking sheet.

Q: Can I prepare these fries in an air fryer? A: Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the seasoned fries in batches for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy.
• Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the baked fries in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries offer a delightful way to enjoy crispy, flavorful fries without the guilt of frying. This blog post has guided you through a simple, oven-baked recipe that brings together the perfect combination of garlic and Parmesan. You can customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary preferences by following the tips and variations provided. Now, every meal can feature this delicious side dish, continuing a family tradition of great taste.