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Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is key to getting those fries crispy and golden without having to fry them in oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the russet potatoes (or leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic look and extra nutrients). Slice the potatoes into even 1/4-inch thick strips, making sure the fries are uniform in size so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure every piece is evenly coated with oil to help them crisp up as they bake.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Seasonings
Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the fries again to ensure they’re well-seasoned.
Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the fries. Toss one more time so the cheese adheres to the fries, coating them in a cheesy, flavorful layer.
Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Spread the fries out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between each fry, so they can crisp up properly. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy fries, so use two sheets if necessary.
Step 6: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as the Parmesan can brown quickly. The fries should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the fries are crispy and perfectly golden, remove them from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy!
Serving Suggestions:
These Baked Parmesan Potato Fries are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas for how to serve them:
- With Burgers: Serve these fries alongside your favorite homemade or store-bought burger for a classic pairing.
- As a Snack: These fries make a great snack on their own. Pair them with a dipping sauce like ketchup, ranch, or garlic aioli for a delicious treat.
- With Grilled Chicken or Steak: Pair them with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- As a Side for Dips: Serve these fries with your favorite dips—whether it’s guacamole, sour cream, or a tangy BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for dunking.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Crispiness Without the Frying: Baking the fries at high heat ensures they crisp up beautifully, and using olive oil helps the fries brown nicely without needing to deep-fry them in excess oil.
- Parmesan for Extra Flavor: The Parmesan cheese adds an umami-rich flavor and a crispy texture on top, making these fries much more savory and satisfying than traditional fries.
- Customizable: You can switch up the seasoning based on your preferences—try adding paprika, chili powder, or fresh thyme for different flavor profiles.
Final Thoughts:
If you love crispy, cheesy fries but want to keep things on the healthier side, these Baked Parmesan Potato Fries are the perfect solution. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, they make a great side dish for nearly any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions.
Give these fries a try, and prepare for a new favorite side dish that you’ll want to make over and over again!
