Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries are golden, crispy, and loaded with flavor. Made from Yukon Gold potatoes, they’re air-fried to perfection, then tossed with a savory blend of Parmesan, garlic, and parsley. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these fries are a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional deep-fried versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These fries are the ultimate upgrade from regular French fries. They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfectly seasoned.

• Healthier than deep-fried fries

• Crispy and golden with less oil

• Easy to prepare in the air fryer

• Flavor-packed with garlic and Parmesan

• Perfect side for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats

• Great as a party appetizer or game-day snack

• Simple ingredients, big flavor

• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

• Gluten-free and vegetarian

• Ready in just over an hour (including soaking time)

Ingredients

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

• 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon parsley (dried or fresh, finely chopped)

Directions

1. Prepare potatoes: Rinse and scrub potatoes under cold water. Cut into thin ¼-inch strips.

2. Soak: Place strips in a large bowl, cover with ice water, and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

3. Dry and season: Drain and pat potatoes dry. Toss with olive oil and salt.

4. Air fry: Arrange in a single layer in a greased air fryer basket, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Make seasoning: While fries cook, mix Parmesan, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl.

6. Finish: Toss hot fries with the Parmesan mixture. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Soak Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 3 minutes

Variations

• Spicy fries: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the Parmesan mixture.

• Cheesy overload: Toss with extra Parmesan or a blend of cheeses.

• Herby fries: Use fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme in place of parsley.

• Garlic lover’s version: Toss fries with fresh minced garlic sautéed in butter.

• Sweet potato version: Swap Yukon Golds for sweet potatoes.

• Truffle twist: Drizzle fries with truffle oil before tossing with Parmesan.

• Lemon zest: Add a sprinkle of zest for a bright, fresh flavor.

• Loaded fries: Top with melted mozzarella, bacon bits, and ranch drizzle.

• Vegan option: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

• Extra crispy: Soak longer (up to 1 hour) and double air fry at a lower temp for 10 minutes, then crisp at 400°F.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Return to the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp.

• Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as fries lose crispness.

FAQs

Why do I need to soak the potatoes?

Soaking removes excess starch, which helps fries turn out crispier.

Can I skip the soaking step?

You can, but the fries may be softer and less crispy.

What type of potato works best?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes both work well for fries.

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Yes, bake in a 425°F oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I prevent fries from sticking?

Lightly grease the air fryer basket and don’t overcrowd.

Can I use pre-cut frozen fries?

Yes, but reduce cooking time and skip the soaking step.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches so fries crisp evenly.

What dips go best with these fries?

Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or ketchup pair perfectly.

How do I make them extra cheesy?

Toss with more Parmesan right after air frying, while still hot.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, but sauté it briefly in oil before tossing with fries to avoid burning.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries are crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—everything you love about fries, but healthier and easier to make at home. With their golden crust, fluffy interior, and irresistible garlic-Parmesan coating, they’re sure to become a favorite side or snack in your kitchen.