Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Parmesan

Introduction

French fries are a universal favorite, and when they’re golden, crispy, and coated with aromatic garlic and Parmesan, they become irresistible. Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Parmesan takes this classic indulgence and makes it healthier without sacrificing flavor. Using an air fryer means you can enjoy perfectly crispy fries with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods, making this recipe both delicious and guilt-free.

The addition of garlic and Parmesan elevates these fries from ordinary to extraordinary. The garlic infuses the fries with a savory depth, while the Parmesan adds a cheesy, nutty richness that clings to every crispy surface. These fries are perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a party appetizer, offering the perfect balance of comfort food and sophistication.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and endlessly satisfying. The air fryer ensures the fries are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without drowning them in oil. Garlic and Parmesan elevate them, turning a simple side into a flavorful standout. It’s the perfect recipe for lazy weeknights, casual gatherings, or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort.

Another reason I adore this recipe is the versatility—it’s easy to customize with herbs, spices, or even different types of cheese. Plus, the aroma of garlic and Parmesan filling the kitchen while the fries cook is absolutely irresistible.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it combines:

1. Healthier Cooking: Crispy fries with minimal oil using the air fryer.
2. Bold Flavor: Garlic and Parmesan create a savory, aromatic kick.
3. Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, including prep and cooking.
4. Versatility: Works as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.

It’s a foolproof way to make French fries that are crispy, flavorful, and impressively easy to prepare.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal

Recipe Details

• Course: Side Dish / Snack
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled (based on preference)
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel (if desired) the potatoes. Cut into uniform sticks about ¼–½ inch thick for even cooking.
2. Soak Potatoes: Soak potato sticks in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
3. Season Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
5. Air Fry Potatoes: Place fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until fries are golden brown and crispy.
6. Add Parmesan: Immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan over hot fries and toss lightly to coat.
7. Garnish: Optional: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
8. Serve: Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

How to Serve

• Serve as a side with burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats.
• Perfect as a snack with ketchup, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauces.
• For parties, serve in a basket lined with parchment paper for a fun presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Cut fries uniformly for even cooking.
• Dry the potatoes thoroughly after soaking to ensure crispiness.
• Toss fries halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Sprinkle Parmesan immediately after frying so it melts slightly onto the hot fries.
• Use a light hand with oil to keep fries crispy and healthy.

Variations

1. Truffle Parmesan Fries: Add 1 tsp truffle oil with Parmesan for a gourmet twist.
2. Herb Garlic Fries: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mix.
3. Spicy Fries: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder for a kick.
4. Sweet Potato Version: Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
5. Cheesy Bacon Fries: Add crumbled cooked bacon along with Parmesan for an indulgent treat.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: Par-cook fries in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes, let cool, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month. Reheat in the air fryer for 10–12 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Large bowl for tossing
• Knife and cutting board
• Paper towels for drying potatoes

Conclusion

Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Parmesan are a healthier, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with savory garlic and Parmesan, they’re perfect as a side, snack, or party appetizer. Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and endlessly satisfying, these fries prove that indulgent comfort food can also be simple and guilt-free.

Print Recipe

Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Parmesan

Author: Laura Bennett Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Snacks

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 35 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: per Serving: ~250 kcal

Description

French fries are a universal favorite, and when they’re golden, crispy, and coated with aromatic garlic and Parmesan, they become irresistible. Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Parmesan takes this classic indulgence and makes it healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled (based on preference)
• 1 tbsp 1–2 olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel (if desired) the potatoes. Cut into uniform sticks about ¼–½ inch thick for even cooking.
2. Soak Potatoes: Soak potato sticks in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
3. Season Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
5. Air Fry Potatoes: Place fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until fries are golden brown and crispy.
6. Add Parmesan: Immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan over hot fries and toss lightly to coat.
7. Garnish: Optional: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
8. Serve: Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Keywords: Air Fryer French Fries with Garlic Parmesan