Crispy, golden fries are a universally loved treat, but achieving that perfect crunch without deep frying can be a challenge. This recipe for Crispy Parmesan Baked Fries offers a healthier alternative to traditional fries while still delivering that irresistible texture and flavor. By baking instead of frying, and using a simple yet effective seasoning blend, these fries come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan taking them to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a snack, these baked fries are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes (approximately 600 g | 21 oz)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (15 ml)
- 50 g Parmesan cheese (about 1.75 oz), grated
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Method of Preparation
1. Preheat the Oven
To start, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy texture. Ensure your oven is fully heated before you place the fries inside.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes to remove the skin, or if you prefer a more rustic style, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Once peeled, cut the potatoes into even-sized fries. Aim for uniform thickness, around 1/4 inch (0.6 cm), to ensure that all the fries cook evenly.
After cutting, place the fries in a bowl of cold water and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step is essential as it helps to remove excess starch from the potatoes, which is the secret to achieving crispy fries. Starch can cause the fries to become soggy, so soaking is a step you don’t want to skip.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly after soaking and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Drying them well is another key step in ensuring they turn out crispy.
3. Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, add the dried potato fries along with 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. The mayonnaise acts as a binding agent that helps the seasonings and Parmesan adhere to the fries, while also adding a subtle richness to the flavor.
Season the fries with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the fries until they are evenly coated with the mayonnaise and seasoning. The goal is to ensure every fry has a light, even coating that will allow them to crisp up beautifully in the oven.
4. Add Parmesan
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl with the seasoned fries. Parmesan not only adds a delicious, savory flavor but also helps to form a crispy, golden crust on the fries. Toss the fries again to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Fries
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick baking mat. This will prevent the fries from sticking to the sheet and make cleanup easier.
Arrange the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spacing them out is crucial—overcrowding the pan will cause the fries to steam rather than bake, leading to a soggy texture.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the cooking time. Flipping ensures that both sides of the fries get evenly browned and crispy.
6. Serve
Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. This brief cooling period allows the fries to firm up and become even crispier.
Serve your crispy Parmesan baked fries hot, either as a snack or as a side dish to your favorite meal. These fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, from classic ketchup to a zesty garlic aioli.
7. Tips for Perfectly Crispy Fries
- For extra crispiness, consider baking the fries on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate all around the fries, ensuring even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs such as rosemary or thyme for added flavor. These can be mixed into the mayonnaise before coating the fries, allowing the flavors to infuse every bite.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
These Crispy Parmesan Baked Fries are a guilt-free indulgence that perfectly balances taste and texture. The combination of crispy potatoes with the rich, savory flavor of Parmesan makes them an irresistible treat. Plus, by baking instead of frying, you’re making a healthier choice without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. Enjoy these fri
