Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Fries
Experience the perfect harmony of flavor and texture with these Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Fries, inspired by the best garlic fries from California. Unlike the usual heavy versions, this recipe showcases the natural goodness of fresh ingredients while maintaining a light profile. Each fry is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and fluffy on the inside. The bold yet balanced garlic flavor, complemented by the freshness of chopped parsley and the richness of Parmesan cheese, will leave your taste buds dancing without the heaviness. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these fries are sure to impress without the guilt. Fresh garlic is key here—avoid the jarred stuff for the best results!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
4 (teaspoons)
salt
3/4 (teaspoon)
baking potatoes
3 (lbs, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick strips)
cooking spray
(for baking sheet)
butter
2 (tablespoons)
garlic cloves
8 (minced)
fresh parsley
2 (tablespoons, finely chopped)
Parmesan cheese
2 (tablespoons, freshly grated)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the olive oil, salt, and freshly peeled and cut potatoes. Seal the bag and shake well to ensure all the fries are evenly coated.
3
Spread the coated potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
4
Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through (after about 20 minutes) to achieve an even golden brown color and a crispy texture.
5
While the fries are baking, prepare the garlic butter. In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over low heat, then add the minced garlic, cooking it gently for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6
Once the fries are done baking, carefully transfer them to the skillet with the garlic and butter mixture. Add the freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, and toss gently to coat all the fries thoroughly in the flavorful mixture.
7
Serve immediately while hot and crispy, and enjoy the ultimate garlic fry experience!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to the best garlic fries?
Fresh garlic is key; avoid jarred versions for the best flavor results.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius.
How do you ensure the fries are evenly coated with oil and salt?
Combine the potatoes, olive oil, and salt in a large zip-top plastic bag and shake well.
What type of potatoes are used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 3 pounds of baking potatoes.
Do the potatoes need to be peeled?
Yes, the recipe specifies using peeled potatoes cut into 1/4-inch-thick strips.
How long do the fries bake in total?
The fries bake for approximately 50 minutes total.
When should you flip the fries during baking?
Flip the fries halfway through the baking process, after about 20 minutes.
How do you prepare the baking sheet?
Lightly spray the baking sheet with cooking spray before adding the potatoes.
How is the garlic butter prepared?
Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over low heat and gently cook minced garlic for 2 minutes.
Why should you stir the garlic constantly while cooking?
Constant stirring prevents the garlic from burning while it cooks in the butter.
How many cloves of garlic are required?
The recipe uses 8 cloves of minced garlic for a bold flavor.
When are the fries tossed with the garlic mixture?
Transfer the fries to the skillet with the garlic butter immediately after they finish baking.
What ingredients are added at the very end?
Freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese are added when tossing the fries.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Fries are listed as a vegetarian dish.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
The recipe makes 6 servings.
What is the recommended size for the potato strips?
The potatoes should be cut into 1/4-inch-thick strips.
What kind of oil is used for coating?
The recipe uses 4 teaspoons of olive oil.
How much butter is used?
Two tablespoons of butter are used for the garlic and herb mixture.
Can I use dried parsley?
Fresh parsley is recommended and should be finely chopped for the best freshness.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
Two tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese are used.
What is the texture of these fries?
They are perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and fluffy on the inside.
Are these fries deep-fried?
No, these fries are baked in the oven for a lighter profile.
How much salt is included?
The recipe calls for 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
What should I do if I want a more intense garlic flavor?
Ensure you use fresh garlic and 8 full cloves as specified in the ingredient list.
Can I use a regular skillet if I don't have nonstick?
A nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent sticking, but you can use a regular one with careful stirring.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by the famous garlic fries found in California.
How should the fries be arranged on the baking sheet?
Spread them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Should I serve these fries cold?
No, serve them immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best experience.
What is the benefit of baking over frying?
Baking helps maintain a light profile and avoids the heaviness associated with deep-frying.
Is the Parmesan cheese pre-grated?
The recipe recommends using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best richness.