1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes if desired (leaving the skin on adds extra texture). Cut them into uniform fry shapes, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Soak the potato slices in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and results in crispier fries. After soaking, drain and pat the potato slices dry with a kitchen towel.
2. Season and Coat the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss the dried potato slices with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Add minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the fries are well-coated with the seasoning.
3. Air Fry the Fries:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crisping. The fries should be golden brown and crispy.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the fries from the air fryer and immediately toss them with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the fries warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Fries:
- Cut the fries uniformly to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Soaking the potatoes is key to achieving a crispy texture, so don’t skip this step.
- Toss the fries halfway through cooking for even browning and crispiness.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more garlic or Parmesan if you like.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Sweet potatoes will require a slightly different cooking time, so keep an eye on them.
- Different Cheeses: Try using other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a unique twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for different flavor notes.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes, offering a perfect balance of crispiness and flavor. With minimal preparation and quick cooking in the air fryer, these fries are ideal for any occasion. Enjoy the savory blend of garlic and Parmesan with every crispy bite!