Air Fryer Parmesan Fries: Crispy, Cheesy, And Quick

Air fryers are a convenient way to make frozen fries, and adding parmesan can take this snack to the next level. The key to getting crispy fries is to not overcrowd the air fryer basket and to shake the basket halfway through cooking. You can also experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or paprika to add extra flavour. The cooking time will depend on the type of fries and the model of the air fryer, but generally, it will take around 15 to 20 minutes at a temperature of 400°F (200°C).

How to prepare the potatoes

Preparing the potatoes is a crucial step in making delicious frozen fries with Parmesan in an air fryer. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Selecting the Potatoes:

Choose the right type of potatoes for air frying. Russet potatoes (also known as Idaho potatoes) and Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices for air fryer fries. Russets give a more traditional restaurant-style taste, while Yukons have a deeper and richer flavor.

Peeling and Cutting the Potatoes:

Start by peeling the potatoes if you prefer skin-free fries. Otherwise, you can leave the skin on for a few extra nutrients and a quicker preparation process. Once you've decided on the peeling, use a sharp knife, mandolin, or potato slicer to cut the potatoes into your desired shape and size. You can go for thin wedges, traditional French fry shapes, or even crinkle or steak cuts. Just make sure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

Soaking the Potatoes (Optional):

While this step is optional, soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30-60 minutes or even overnight can help remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. If you decide to soak them, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.

Seasoning the Potatoes:

Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil or any oil of your choice. Toss the potatoes to ensure they are well coated. Then, season the potatoes with your desired spices. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, or Italian seasoning. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.

Cooking the Potatoes:

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 370°F to 400°F. Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. If needed, cook the potatoes in batches to ensure even cooking. Air fry the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, tossing or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fries and the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How to season the fries

The key to delicious air fryer frozen fries is in the seasoning. Here are some tips and tricks to help you season your fries to perfection:

• Use a variety of seasonings: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings. In addition to parmesan cheese, you can try using garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of your fries before serving.
• Toss the fries with oil and seasonings: Before placing the fries in the air fryer, toss them with a small amount of olive oil or cooking oil spray. This will help the seasonings stick to the fries and create a crispy texture. Make sure to coat the fries evenly.
• Layer the fries in a single layer: For even cooking and crispiness, arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy fries. If you have a large amount of fries, cook them in batches.
• Shake the basket halfway through: To ensure even cooking and crispiness, shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process. This will help turn the fries and allow them to cook evenly on all sides.
• Toss the fries with garlic butter: For an extra boost of flavor, toss the hot fries with garlic butter after they finish cooking. Simply heat some butter and garlic together in a small pot until the butter is melted and fragrant. Drizzle this mixture over the fries and toss to coat.
• Top with extra cheese: If you're a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle some extra grated parmesan cheese on top of your fries before serving. This will add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese: While parmesan cheese is a classic choice for fries, you can also experiment with other types of cheese. For example, you could try sprinkling some cheddar cheese on top of your fries immediately after they come out of the air fryer.
• Serve with dipping sauces: Fries are even better when served with delicious dipping sauces. Try pairing your parmesan fries with ranch dressing, light alfredo sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, or even a fancy balsamic ketchup.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Taste your fries after cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone's taste preferences are different, so don't be afraid to add a little more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your taste buds.
• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients like fresh garlic cloves, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. This will make a big difference in the flavor and quality of your fries.

The best oils to use

When making frozen fries in an air fryer, you don't need to add any oil, as they already contain some. However, adding a small amount of oil will give the fries a nice golden colour and help them to crisp up.

• Avocado oil
• Peanut oil
• Sunflower oil
• Light olive oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Refined coconut oil
• Safflower oil
• Vegetable oil
• Canola oil
• Soybean oil

You can also use regular virgin olive oil if you're cooking at 400°F or lower, as it has a smoke point of 410°F.

If you're looking for a cooking spray, you can buy a non-aerosol pump-style oil spray that has no propellant and is safe to use in the air fryer. For example, an avocado oil spray has a smoke point of 500°F and contains no propellants, chemicals, or emulsifiers.

How to cook the fries

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. If your air fryer doesn't have a preheat setting, don't worry—you can still cook your fries effectively. However, preheating helps to achieve that desirable crispy texture.

Next, prepare your frozen fries. If you're using store-bought frozen fries, simply proceed to the next step. If you're making your own, peel and cut your potatoes into your desired size and shape. Russet potatoes (aka Idaho potatoes) and Yukon gold potatoes are the best varieties for air fryer fries. You can peel the potatoes or leave the skin on, whichever you prefer.

Now it's time to season your fries. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, or another oil of your choice. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and if you're feeling fancy, add some garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Toss the fries until they're evenly coated.

Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, with a little overlap if needed. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the hot air from circulating properly and result in uneven cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fries in batches.

Cook the fries for about 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F. For thinner varieties like shoestring fries, set the timer for 12 to 15 minutes. Thicker fries like steak fries will need a longer cooking time, around 18 to 22 minutes. Don't forget to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.

Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, they're ready to serve! Sprinkle with a little more salt if desired, and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy exteriors and soft interiors.

How to serve the fries

Now that you've made your delicious, crispy, golden, and healthy air fryer frozen parmesan fries, it's time to serve them! Here are some tips and suggestions to make your fries even more enjoyable:

• Garnishes and Toppings: After tossing your fries in garlic butter, sprinkle them with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped chives or fresh parsley for an extra layer of flavour and a pop of colour. You can also add some extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of garlic powder on top.
• Dipping Sauces: While ketchup is a classic, you can elevate your fries by serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. Try ranch dressing, light alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, buffalo dipping sauce, cajun seasoning, aioli, or even a special sauce like Sir Kensington's avocado mayo with a squeeze of lemon juice and cracked pepper.
• Main Course Pairings: These fries are a versatile side dish and go well with a variety of main courses. Serve them with a burger, grilled chicken breast, steak, or even fish for a delicious air fryer fish and chips meal.
• Reheating: If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can reheat them in the air fryer. Simply pop them back into the air fryer at 400°F for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
• Presentation: For a fun and casual presentation, serve your fries in a paper cone lined with parchment paper, or simply pile them into a bowl. For a more elegant presentation, arrange them on a platter with the dipping sauce(s) in small bowls or ramekins on the side.
• Customisation: Feel free to experiment with different types of potatoes, cheeses, and seasonings to create your own unique version of air fryer parmesan fries. You can also try mixing different shapes and sizes of frozen fries for a fun and varied texture.

Remember, these fries are all about indulgence without the guilt, so enjoy them as a treat for yourself, your family, or your guests!

Frequently asked questions