Crispy, cheesy, and full of garlicky flavor, these oven-baked fries are a healthier twist on the classic and perfect for sharing.

⏱ Prep & Cook Time

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

🧂 Ingredients

4 large Russet potatoes, unpeeled and cut into ¼-inch thick fries

¼ cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp dried thyme

¼ tsp seasoned salt (optional)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
¼ cup chopped parsley (fresh preferred)

Extra Parmesan and salt for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Prepare the Fries:
Place the cut potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, and seasoned salt. Toss to coat well.

Drain & Arrange:
Using tongs, lift the fries out of the bowl and arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet, allowing excess oil to remain in the bowl.
Bake First Round:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Toss with Cheese & Herbs:
Remove fries from the oven and return them to the bowl with the remaining oil. Add ¼ cup Parmesan and chopped parsley. Toss gently to coat.

Final Bake:
Return fries to the baking sheet and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp and the cheese is melted.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese and a pinch of extra salt if desired. Serve immediately.

💡 Tips

For crispier fries, soak the potato strips in cold water for 30 minutes before baking, then pat dry thoroughly.

Spread fries out evenly on the baking sheet — overcrowding will cause them to steam, not crisp.

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

Herbs: Try rosemary or oregano in place of thyme.
Cheese-Free: For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a savory flavor.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the oil mixture for heat.

❓FAQs

Q: Can I use another type of potato?
A: Russet potatoes are best for crispy fries, but Yukon Golds also work well.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can par-bake the fries for 25 minutes, let them cool, and do the final bake just before serving.

Q: Can I air-fry instead of baking?
A: Yes! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Oven Baked Garlic & Parmesan Fries

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Ingredients

4 large Russet potatoes, unpeeled and cut into ¼-inch thick strips

¼ cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp dried thyme

¼ tsp seasoned salt
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Extra Parmesan and salt, for garnish

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

Season Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss potato strips with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, and seasoned salt.
Drain & Arrange:
Using tongs, place fries on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving excess oil in the bowl.
Bake First Time:
Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and lightly crisp.

Toss with Cheese & Herbs:
Return fries to the bowl, toss with ¼ cup Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Final Bake:
Spread fries back on the sheet and bake 10 more minutes or until cheese melts and fries are crisp.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and a pinch of salt. Serve warm.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side with grilled chicken, burgers, or veggie wraps.
Pair with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, herbed yogurt, or classic ketchup.
Great for game nights, potlucks, or as a party appetizer.