Description
Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Fries are perfectly seasoned, golden-brown fries made with russet potatoes, infused with a flavorful garlic and smoked paprika blend. These fries are air fried to achieve a crispy texture without the extra oil, making them a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried fries. Garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese, they are ideal as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
Seasoning and Oil
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish and Optional
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Wash and Prep Potatoes: Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. You can peel them if desired, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture and flavor.
- Slice Potatoes: Slice the potatoes into even strips about 1/4 inch thick for consistent cooking. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for uniformity.
- Soak Potatoes: Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps in making the fries crispier.
- Dry Fries: Drain the fries and thoroughly pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to eliminate moisture before cooking.
- Make Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Toss Fries with Oil and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, add the dried fries, drizzle with olive oil, and toss them to coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the fries and toss again until all fries are coated with the seasoning.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure an even cooking temperature.
- Arrange Fries: Place a single layer of fries into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Air Fry the Fries: Cook the fries at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Shake or toss the basket halfway through (around 8-10 minutes) to promote even browning and crispness. For extra crispiness, add an additional 2-5 minutes as needed.
- Check for Doneness: After the initial cooking time, check that fries are golden brown and crispy. Continue cooking in 2-minute increments if they need more time.
- Remove and Garnish: Carefully remove the fries from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant garnish.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot fries to add a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy garlicky fries immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing.
- Savor Every Bite: Grab a handful of these perfectly seasoned and crispy fries and enjoy their delicious garlicky flavor and satisfying crunch.
Notes
- Soaking the fries in cold water is key to removing excess starch and ensuring crispiness.
- Make sure to dry the fries completely before coating with oil to avoid sogginess.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for best results.
- Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the fries.
- For a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese garnish.
- Leftover fries can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
