Super Bowl Appetizer Garlic Parmesan Fries

Name: Super Bowl Appetizer Garlic Parmesan Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Busy Ideas

I love making these Garlic Parmesan Fries for our Super Bowl gatherings. They're always a hit, and everyone loves the crispy texture combined with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan. I find that the key is to double-fry the potatoes, which yields a heavenly crunch. Plus, the perfect blend of spices elevates them to the next level, making them an irresistible snack for game day or any time you're craving comfort food. Serve with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping and watch them disappear!

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:30:40.294Z

When I first tried making Garlic Parmesan Fries, I was searching for the ideal combination of flavors and textures to delight my friends and family. Through several experiments, I learned that soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, leading to a crispier fry. After the initial frying, tossing them with freshly grated Parmesan and herbs gives them a flavor that’s simply addictive.

During one Super Bowl Sunday, I decided to set up a DIY fry bar with various toppings, including jalapeños and ranch dressing. This not only made the fries stand out but also turned them into a fun interactive snack. Everyone enjoyed customizing their own, adding layers of flavor with each topping!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that satisfies every bite
Rich flavor from fresh garlic and Parmesan
Perfect for sharing during game day or gatherings

      

The Importance of Double Frying

Double frying is the secret technique that transforms ordinary fries into culinary masterpieces. The first fry cooks the potatoes through, ensuring they are soft on the inside. The second fry is when the magic happens; increasing the oil’s temperature crisps up the exterior, resulting in a delightful crunch. If you're wondering about oil temperature, aim for around 350°F (175°C) for the second fry. This ensures a perfect golden color and crispy texture without absorbing too much oil.

Timing is also crucial during the frying process. As you fry the first batch for 4-5 minutes, watch for the fries to become tender but not browned. If they start to darken too early, your oil might be too hot, leading to burnt edges and raw interiors. Patience is key; let them cool a bit before the second fry to achieve a uniform crispiness.

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Parmesan

Using fresh minced garlic in this recipe significantly elevates the flavor profile. Fresh garlic has a sharper, more pungent taste compared to garlic powder, providing an aromatic quality that permeates the fries. When combined with the grated Parmesan cheese, the flavor becomes remarkably rich and umami. For a more mellow garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic before mincing it—this adds a sweet complexity that balances beautifully with the fries.

Parmesan adds not only flavor but also texture. When the hot fries are tossed with cheese, it melts slightly, creating a crispy coating that enhances each bite. If you want to try different cheeses, aged Gruyère or Pecorino Romano are excellent alternatives that offer a distinct taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses have varying salt levels, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While these Garlic Parmesan Fries are delicious as is, serving them with dipping sauces takes them to another level. Marinara sauce offers a tangy contrast, while ranch dressing brings creaminess that complements the fries' crunch. Consider adding some heat by mixing a splash of hot sauce into your ranch or using a spicy marinara for a delightful twist.

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. For a spicy variant, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle Sriracha over the freshly tossed fries. You can also add crispy bacon bits or green onions for added flavor and crunch. With so many options, you can make these fries the star of any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Fries

4 large russet potatoes
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin fries, about 1/4-inch thick. Place the fries in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

Pre-Fry the Potatoes

Heat a large pot of oil over medium heat. Drain and dry the soaked fries thoroughly. Fry them in batches for about 4-5 minutes until soft but not browned. Remove and let them drain on paper towels.

Second Fry for Crispiness

Increase the heat of the oil and fry the potatoes again for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Season the Fries

In a large bowl, combine the hot fries with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the fries evenly.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the fries to a serving platter, garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

For extra flavor, try adding your preferred spices to the seasoning mix.

Pro Tips

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fries to achieve that perfect crunch. You can also experiment with adding different herbs and spices to the cheese for a unique flavor twist.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover Garlic Parmesan Fries, storing them correctly will keep them tasty. Allow the fries to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag, which will prevent them from sticking together.

When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the fries on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy instead of reviving that crunchy texture.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure that your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free. Also, replace the frying oil with an alternative like avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. For a lower-calorie version, consider baking the fries. Toss them in olive oil and spices, then spread them out on a baking sheet to bake at 425°F (220°C) for around 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even crisp.

For a dairy-free variation, substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan to give a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Toss the hot fries with a mix of nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt for a delicious alternative that still satisfies those flavor cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fries for this recipe?

While fresh fries give the best texture, you can use frozen fries if you're short on time. Just skip the first frying step.

→ How can I make these fries healthier?

Try baking them in the oven with a light spray of oil instead of frying for a healthier option.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or choose pecorino Romano for a similar flavor.

→ Can I prepare these fries in advance?

It’s best to fry them just before serving for optimal freshness. However, you can slice the potatoes and soak them ahead of time.