These homemade Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries are the perfect crispy, golden side dish or snack, loaded with bold garlic butter and cheesy flavor. Healthier than deep-fried versions and endlessly customizable, they’re a family favorite made easy in the air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy fries with a fluffy interior
• Loaded with savory garlic and Parmesan flavor
• Healthier than traditional frying
• Easy to customize with your favorite spices and cheeses
• No guilt and minimal cleanup

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

French Fries:

• 4 medium to large russet potatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet, smoked, or hot)

Garlic Parmesan Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (fresh is best)
• Minced fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Soak the Potatoes:
   Add potato sticks to a large bowl of cold water and let soak for 30 minutes. Drain and pat very dry.
2. Season the Potatoes:
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and paprika. Add dried potatoes and toss to coat.
3. Air Fry:
   Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Place potatoes in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 10-12 minutes. Toss and flip, then air fry another 8-12 minutes until crispy.
4. Make Garlic Butter:
   While the fries cook, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, careful not to burn it.
5. Toss and Finish:
   Add cooked fries to a bowl. Pour over garlic butter and toss. Add Parmesan and parsley and toss again.
6. Serve:
   Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Soaking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Potatoes: Try Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a twist.
• Cheese: Use Romano or mozzarella instead of Parmesan.
• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Herbs: Substitute parsley with rosemary or chives.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F until crispy again.
• Garlic butter and cheese can be prepped in advance and refrigerated separately.

FAQs

Do I have to soak the potatoes?

Soaking helps remove starch, leading to crispier fries. It’s highly recommended.

Can I use another type of potato?

Yes, but russet potatoes give the crispiest results.

Can I bake these instead?

Yes. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, then at 425°F for 15-20 minutes.

How do I keep fries crispy?

Cook in single layers and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Can I skip the garlic?

Yes, but it adds a lot of flavor. You can reduce or substitute with garlic powder.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese.

Can I freeze them?

These fries are best fresh, but you can freeze them after air frying and reheat in the air fryer.

What sauces pair well?

Try aioli, ranch, ketchup, chipotle mayo, or garlic butter.

Can I use pre-cut frozen fries?

Yes, just skip the soaking and reduce cooking time slightly.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook it gently in melted butter on medium heat and watch closely.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries are the ultimate indulgent-yet-lightened-up snack or side. They deliver all the satisfaction of restaurant fries with a homemade touch and bold flavor. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

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