Garlic Parmesan Fries are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or snack that combines crispy French fries with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for game day, a family gathering, or just a tasty treat, these fries are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 (26 oz) bag frozen French fries
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preparing the Fries
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the bag of frozen French fries, typically around 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the Fries: Spread the frozen French fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Use two baking sheets if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which ensures the fries bake evenly and get crispy.
- Bake the Fries: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and bake the fries according to the package instructions, usually for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the fries halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Mixture
- Heat the Olive Oil: While the fries are baking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add Minced Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Combine Garlic Powder: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of garlic powder. Mix well to combine.
Coating the Fries
- Transfer the Fries: Once the fries are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Add Garlic Mixture: Pour the garlic and olive oil mixture over the hot fries. Toss the fries gently to coat them evenly with the garlic mixture.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the fries. Toss again to ensure even seasoning.
- Add Parmesan and Parsley: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the fries. Toss gently to combine and ensure the fries are evenly coated with the cheese and parsley.
Serving
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Fries to a serving platter. Serve immediately while they are still hot and crispy. These fries are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, aioli, or marinara.
Tips and Variations
- Fresh Fries: If you prefer, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries. Cut the potatoes into fries, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, pat dry, and bake as instructed.
- Cheese Variations: Try using other types of cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Additions: Add other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic mixture for a spicy variation.
Nutritional Information
These Garlic Parmesan Fries offer a tasty combination of carbohydrates from the fries, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein and calcium from the Parmesan cheese. Enjoy them in moderation as a flavorful treat.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the fries in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the fries soggy.
Garlic Parmesan Fries are a quick and delicious way to elevate ordinary French fries into a gourmet treat. With the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese and the freshness of parsley, these fries are sure to become a favorite in your household. Share this recipe with friends and family to spread the joy of this delectable side dish. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Fries, and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet side dish with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture of these Garlic Parmesan Fries, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
