If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and downright addictive, this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly golden potato wedges coated in fragrant garlic and nutty Parmesan cheese, air fried to crisp perfection without the extra oil of traditional frying. It’s a simple, vibrant way to elevate everyday fries into a mouthwatering treat that’s surprisingly easy to make and share. Whether it’s game day, a cozy night in, or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe checks all the boxes for that irresistible blend of comfort and sophistication.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries Recipe lies in its simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one brings something special: crispy texture from russet potatoes, a rich savoriness from Parmesan, and a punch of aromatic garlic that bridges everything together. These small but mighty components ensure every fry bursts with flavor and crunch.
- 2 russet potatoes washed: Their starchy texture makes fries crispy outside and fluffy inside when air fried.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Just enough to help the seasonings stick and give the potatoes a golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic: Infuses the fries with bold, garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty richness that melts slightly on the hot fries.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without being too salty.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a subtle bite that balances the garlic and cheese beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens every bite.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by getting your air fryer nice and hot at 400°F. A preheated air fryer ensures your fries crisp up quickly and evenly, setting the stage for that irresistible crunch you’re after.
Step 2: Cut the Potatoes Into Wedges
Slice your russet potatoes into thin wedges or the classic French fry shape—whichever you prefer. The key is consistency in size for even cooking, so each fry finishes perfectly golden and tender all the way through.
Step 3: Toss With Olive Oil and Seasonings
Drizzle olive oil over your cut potatoes, then sprinkle the granulated garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to coat every fry with that glorious seasoning blend. This step is where the flavor magic starts happening!
Step 4: Air Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Place the seasoned fries in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, shaking or stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Smaller cut fries will be done a bit sooner, around 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they reach that perfect crispy crunch.
Step 5: Add Fresh Parsley and Serve Warm
Once your fries come out crispy and golden, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over the top if you’re using it. This pop of green adds a nice freshness that balances the richness of the Parmesan and garlic. Serve immediately to enjoy every bite at its best.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t your only option here. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan or a dusting of smoked paprika for a little smoky heat. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and complements the garlic beautifully. Don’t be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand to elevate these fries even further.
Side Dishes
These Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries are a fantastic companion to burgers, grilled chicken, or even a fresh garden salad. They hold their own as a snack or appetizer but shine when paired alongside your favorite main dishes for a satisfying meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your friends by serving these fries in a rustic wooden bowl or in mini paper cones for a fun, casual vibe. You could also drizzle a little garlic aioli or marinara sauce on the side for dipping to make the presentation both eye-catching and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep as much crispiness as possible, avoid covering them with foil or plastic wrap while still warm, as that traps steam and makes fries soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze these fries after they’ve cooled completely by spreading them out on a baking sheet, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag once frozen solid. This step prevents them from sticking together and lets you enjoy crispy, cheesy fries on demand.
Reheating
Reheat cold fries in your air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This restores their crispy texture far better than a microwave, which tends to make fries limp and disappointing.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will bring a sweeter flavor and a slightly softer texture. Just adjust cooking times as they tend to cook faster and can burn more easily.
Is granulated garlic different from garlic powder?
Yes, granulated garlic is coarser and has a more robust flavor, which works well for this recipe. Garlic powder is finer and milder, so if using it, you might want to reduce the quantity slightly.
Do I need to soak the potatoes before air frying?
For the crispiest fries, soaking cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes can help remove excess starch. However, it’s not strictly necessary if you’re short on time—just pat them dry well before tossing in oil and seasonings.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can! Simply omit the Parmesan or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
What is the best air fryer setting for these fries?
Cooking at 400°F is ideal for crispness, and shaking the basket halfway ensures even cooking. If your air fryer tends to cook unevenly, consider cooking in smaller batches for the best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries Recipe transforms simple potatoes into an unforgettable snack or side. It’s crispy, flavorful, and downright satisfying in every way. If you’re ready to up your fry game and enjoy a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
Crispy and flavorful Garlic Parmesan French Fries made effortlessly in an air fryer. These golden potato wedges are coated with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, then air fried to perfection for a deliciously healthy twist on classic fries. Garnished with fresh parsley, they offer a savory snack or side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (approximately 16 potato wedges)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 russet potatoes, washed
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the potatoes: Slice the washed russet potatoes into thin wedges or classic French fry shapes, depending on your preference, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the potatoes: Drizzle the olive oil over the potato wedges and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly. Sprinkle granulated garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and ground black pepper over the potatoes, mixing again to distribute all the flavors well.
- Air fry the fries: Transfer the seasoned potato wedges into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or 10 to 15 minutes for thinner fries, ensuring you stir or shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to achieve an even, golden, and crispy texture.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the fries from the air fryer and sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley, if using. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and crunch.
Notes
- You can customize the seasoning by adding paprika, seasoning salt, or onion powder for different flavor profiles.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle Cheddar cheese over the fries right after cooking while they are still hot, allowing it to melt.
- This recipe is lightly adapted from “The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two” by Gina Kleinworth.
