Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of golden fries crisping to perfection—and even better when they’re tossed in garlic and Parmesan. I’ve always had a soft spot for fries, especially when they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. This Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries recipe was born out of my love for bold, savory bites that feel indulgent but are surprisingly simple to make at home. What makes this recipe even better is the fact that it skips the heavy oil and deep-frying process. Instead, the air fryer delivers that irresistible crunch with a fraction of the fat.

You’re going to love this recipe because it offers everything a great side dish or snack should have—texture, taste, and a satisfying bite. The garlic and Parmesan are a match made in heaven. The way the cheese melts and clings to each fry with a hint of olive oil is just divine. You won’t believe how quickly these fries disappear from the plate—trust me, they never last more than a few minutes in my kitchen!

What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile. These fries make a perfect side for burgers, grilled chicken, or sandwiches, but they also shine on their own as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Hosting a casual get-together or a game night? Set a batch of these on the table, and they’ll be gone in no time.

It’s also affordable, made with simple pantry staples. You don’t need expensive equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few humble potatoes, some garlic, a little Parmesan, and basic seasonings you likely already have at home. A drizzle of olive oil ties it all together and enhances the crisping process.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to bring this delicious idea to life:

• 3 large russet potatoes (washed, peeled optional)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional, for extra flavor)

HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE 
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries

Making these crispy garlic Parmesan fries in the air fryer couldn’t be easier. With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a delicious side or snack that’s quick, golden, and full of flavor. Here’s how I do it every time to ensure the perfect crispness and that bold garlic-Parmesan combo everyone loves.

---

Step 1: Wash and Cut the Potatoes

Start by thoroughly washing your russet potatoes. I prefer to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you like a cleaner look. Cut the potatoes into even-sized matchsticks, about ¼-inch thick. Uniform cuts are important so the fries cook evenly.

Place the cut potatoes into a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 20–30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which results in crispier fries. Don’t skip it if you want that perfect crunch!

---

Step 2: Dry and Season

After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so be thorough.

Transfer the dried fries to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and toss well to coat. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again to ensure every fry is seasoned evenly. If you’re using minced garlic for added flavor, mix that in now too.

---

Step 3: Air Fry the Fries

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the fries start crisping as soon as they hit the basket.

Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—this is key for even cooking. If needed, cook in batches.

Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the fries halfway through. Depending on the thickness of your fries and your air fryer model, the cook time may vary slightly. Keep an eye on them and cook until they’re golden and crispy.

---

Step 4: Add the Garlic Parmesan Coating

Once the fries are done, transfer them to a clean bowl while still hot. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the fries. Toss immediately so the cheese sticks and melts slightly onto the hot fries.

If you like a stronger garlic punch, you can toss the fries with a little additional minced garlic at this stage too—just enough to enhance without overpowering.

---

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the fries hot, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce—think ranch, garlic aioli, or a zesty marinara.

---

Quick and Easy to Make

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is. From start to finish, you can have these fries ready in about 40 minutes (including soaking time). Plus, using the air fryer means no hot oil splatters, no deep-frying smell lingering in your kitchen, and much less cleanup.

---

Customizable to Fit Your Preferences

These fries are also super customizable. You can switch up the seasonings depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry. Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne. Want a herby twist? Mix in dried oregano or Italian seasoning. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—just make sure it’s a hard cheese that can melt and cling to the fries.

---

Popular with Everyone

Whether I’m serving these at a family dinner, a weekend BBQ, or just snacking while watching a movie, these fries are always a hit. Popular with kids and adults alike, they’re a fantastic alternative to store-bought frozen fries and so much more satisfying. Guests always ask how I get them so crispy, and it’s all thanks to the air fryer and that proper soaking and drying step.

Print

FAQs 
Frequently Asked Questions about Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. However, russet potatoes work best because of their high starch content, which results in crispier fries. Sweet potatoes will yield a softer, slightly sweeter version.

Do I need to soak the fries before air frying?
Absolutely. Soaking removes excess starch, helping the fries get extra crispy. Skipping this step can lead to soggier results, even with an air fryer.

Can I make these fries ahead of time?
You can prep the potatoes and soak them ahead, but it’s best to cook them just before serving. If needed, you can reheat the fries in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back some crispness.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work in a pinch. Avoid soft cheeses—they won’t give the same crispy texture.

Can I make these fries without oil?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. The olive oil helps with browning and helps the seasonings stick better to the fries.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which leads to steaming rather than crisping.