Crispy Garlic Parmesan Fries (Restaurant-Style at Home)

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There’s something irresistible about perfectly crispy fries coated in garlic, Parmesan, and a bold blend of spices. Crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with savory flavor—these garlic Parmesan fries are the kind you order every time at a restaurant, but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or party favorite, these fries disappear fast. Let’s get into it.

🥔 Ingredients

For the Fries

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • Cold water (for soaking)
  • 2–3 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying or baking)
  • Salt, to taste

For the Garlic Parmesan Seasoning

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (fine, not shredded)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika if you want deeper flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne (optional, for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1–2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

🔪 Preparation

  1. Wash and cut the potatoes
    Peel if desired (skin-on adds great texture). Cut into thick fries.
  2. Soak the fries
    Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and soak for 30–60 minutes.
    This removes excess starch and helps them get super crispy.
  3. Dry thoroughly
    Drain and pat the fries completely dry with paper towels. Moisture = soggy fries.
  4. Lightly coat with cornstarch
    Toss fries with cornstarch until lightly coated. Shake off excess.

🍳 Cooking Methods

Option 1: Deep Frying (Crispiest)

  1. Heat oil to 350°F / 175°C.
  2. Fry fries in batches for 5–6 minutes until pale golden.
  3. Remove and rest for 2 minutes.
  4. Fry again at 375°F / 190°C for 2–3 minutes until deep golden and crispy.
  5. Drain on paper towels and season with salt immediately.

Option 2: Oven-Baked

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F / 220°C.
  2. Toss fries with oil and spread in a single layer on a lined baking tray.
  3. Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.

Option 3: Air Fryer

  1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F / 193°C.
  2. Cook fries in batches for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.

🧄 Garlic Parmesan Finish

  1. In a large bowl, mix Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, chili flakes, black pepper, and onion powder.
  2. Add hot fries straight from the fryer/oven.
  3. Drizzle with melted butter or olive oil.
  4. Toss quickly so the cheese melts and sticks to the fries.
  5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with garlic aioli, ketchup, or spicy mayo
  • Add extra Parmesan on top for maximum flavor
  • Perfect alongside burgers, sandwiches, or as a standalone snack

⭐ Tips for Perfect Fries

  • Always season while the fries are hot
  • Fine grated Parmesan sticks better than shredded
  • Don’t overcrowd the fryer or tray
  • Double frying = restaurant-level crunch

📝 Final Thoughts

These crispy garlic Parmesan fries are crunchy, savory, and downright addictive. Once you make them at home, regular fries just won’t hit the same anymore. They’re simple, bold, and guaranteed to impress—no restaurant required.

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