Name: Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, cut into ¼-inch thick lengthwise (You can use Russet potatoes, sweet potatoes, or Yukon); 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil; 2 Tbsps cornstarch; 2 tsps garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1-2 cups Garlic Parmesan Sauce, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 20 reviews

Imagine the irresistible aroma of garlicky parmesan wafting through your kitchen, accompanied by the sound of crispy fries tumbling onto a plate. Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries are the ultimate treat for any occasion—game day, after-school snack, or an elevated side at family dinner. Each fry boasts a golden, crackly exterior, tender interior, and a full-on flavor explosion from garlic and real parmesan. Even better, these fries fit a gluten-free lifestyle and come together in a flash thanks to the air fryer. Get ready to fall hard for this family favorite that will have everyone begging for more!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients can come together and create such an unforgettable dish. Each component plays its part, from bringing out hearty flavors to ensuring each fry is perfectly crisp and golden.

Potatoes: The heart of any good fry! Russet, Yukon, or sweet potatoes all work; each variety brings distinct flavor and crispness.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps all those seasonings cling for more even browning.
Cornstarch: This secret weapon creates that signature crunch on the outside of the fries.
Garlic powder: Layers the fries with mouthwatering garlicky goodness—the flavor hero here!
Smoked paprika: Brings gentle warmth and a beautiful deep color.
Dried parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous flecks throughout the fries and on top for serving.
Dried basil: A touch of sweet, peppery flavor that works wonders with garlic and parm.
Dried oregano: Brings depth and familiar Italian flair to the seasoning blend.
Dried thyme: Rounds out the herbs with earthy aroma and taste.
Grated parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and melts just enough to coat every fry with crave-worthy flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Sauce: The final flourish—serve drizzled or on the side for extra dipping satisfaction!

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries

Step 1: Prep and Cut Your Potatoes

Wash and dry your potatoes thoroughly, then slice each one lengthwise into halves, then quarters, and finally into fry-shaped sticks, about a quarter-inch thick. Aim for uniform pieces; they’ll cook more evenly this way. You should get six to eight fries per potato—plenty for sharing but never quite enough, if you ask me!

Step 2: Soak for the Ultimate Crisp

Drop those raw sticks into a bowl of cold water with ice cubes and a little salt. Let them soak for 20 minutes. This seemingly simple step draws out excess starch and sets you up for fries with that signature snap. After soaking, drain and pat them dry very well; extra moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so don’t skimp here!

Step 3: Dry and Rest

Arrange the potato sticks in a single layer on paper towels or a clean dish towel. Let them ‘air dry’ for about 30 minutes (or up to an hour if you’ve got time). Patiently letting them dry out on the surface means your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries turn out shatteringly crisp on the outside and fluffy inside.

Step 4: Season and Toss

Toss the thoroughly dried fries into a big bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle on the cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, all the dried herbs, and that glorious grated parmesan. Use your hands to coat every piece—the more thorough, the better! Each fry should glisten, flecked with seasoning and cheese.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees and give the basket a quick coat of nonstick spray. Spread the fries in a single layer—avoid overcrowding for best crisping results. Air fry for 10 to 15 minutes, checking at the ten-minute mark. When your fries have turned golden and irresistible, with crispy edges and a tender bite, you know you’ve hit the jackpot.

Step 6: Add the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Once your fries are ready, pile them high and get out your Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Drizzle it over the top or serve it on the side. For extra decadence, shower on a little more grated parmesan and a pinch of parsley—it’s the finishing touch that will make these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries taste indulgent every single time.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries

Garnishes

A generous dusting of freshly grated parmesan right after they come out of the air fryer elevates them, while an extra pinch of dried or even fresh parsley adds vibrant color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor. A bit of cracked black pepper is always welcome, too!

Side Dishes

Pair your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries with all the classics—think juicy burgers, grilled chicken, or even a refreshing salad. They also make a heavenly addition to game day snack spreads alongside wings, sliders, or cheesy dips.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile them into rustic baskets lined with parchment, serve them in paper cones for a fun street-food vibe, or stack them on a platter with the garlic parmesan sauce served in a ramekin for dipping. Turn them into loaded fries with a dollop of sour cream, bacon bits, and chives, or serve them atop a salad for serious crunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the feast, stash any leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their flavor for three to four days, though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze leftover fries (without sauce) in a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to ten months, ready to reappear whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

Bring your fries back to life by popping them into the air fryer for a few minutes at 375 degrees. They’ll regain much of their original crispiness—way better than the microwave, trust me! If you’ve frozen them, a quick reheat in the air fryer straight from frozen does wonders.

FAQs

Can I make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries with sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness and a beautiful orange color to the plate. Just keep an eye on them, as they can cook a little faster than white potatoes.

How do I keep the fries from sticking in the air fryer?

Always give your air fryer basket a generous spritz of oil or nonstick spray before cooking. Also, avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed so each fry gets plenty of space.

Can I skip soaking the potatoes?

Technically yes, but soaking is the key to super crispy fries. It removes extra starch, helping you achieve that perfect texture. For truly unforgettable Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries, don’t skip the soak!

Can I double the recipe?

Of course! Just be sure to cook in batches so the fries don’t overlap in the basket. Each batch will be just as flavorful and crisp as the last.

What dipping sauces go well with these fries?

Beyond the garlic parmesan sauce, try ranch, aioli, spicy ketchup, or even blue cheese dressing. Anything creamy or tangy will complement the garlicky, cheesy flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of homemade Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan French Fries! They’re the kind of side dish or snack that turns any meal into something special. Whip up a batch, share with friends or family, and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy, garlicky bite!