- 2.5 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into ½-inch wedges
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated—not pre-shredded!)
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish
🥔 Potato tip: Yukon Golds = creamy inside, crisp outside. Russets = fluffier center, extra crisp. Don’t peel—skin adds flavor and fiber!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment or foil (for easy cleanup).
Cut potatoes into even ½-inch wedges—uniform size = even cooking.
💡 Pro move: Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch—crisper fries! Pat very dry before seasoning.
2. Season & Coat
In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet—no overlapping! (Crowding = steamed, not crispy fries.)
3. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and gently flip fries using a spatula.
Return to oven and bake 10–15 minutes more, until deeply golden and crisp.
⏱️ For extra crunch: Turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes—watch closely!
4. Serve Hot & Crispy
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra pinch of Parmesan or flaky salt.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips for Fry Perfection
- Don’t skip drying the potatoes—water = soggy fries.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that won’t melt or crisp.
- Space them out—use two pans if needed.
- Flip halfway—ensures even browning.
- Serve right away—they lose crispness as they cool.
Dipping Sauces That Shine
- Classic: Garlic aioli or ranch
- Zesty: Lemon-dill yogurt dip
- Spicy: Sriracha mayo (½ cup mayo + 1 tbsp sriracha)
- Elegant: Marinara or roasted red pepper hummus
- Kid-Friendly: Ketchup or honey mustard
Delicious Variations
- Truffle Fries: Drizzle with truffle oil after baking
- Everything Bagel: Toss with Everything Bagel seasoning before baking
- Rosemary Garlic: Swap oregano for fresh rosemary + extra garlic
- Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes + cinnamon for a sweet-savory twist
- Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Best served fresh—but you can prep potatoes (cut and soaked) 1 day ahead. Bake just before serving.
Q: Why are my fries soggy?
A: Likely from wet potatoes, overcrowding the pan, or not using enough oil. Dry well and give them space!
Q: Can I air fry them?
A: Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway. Add Parmesan in the last 5 minutes.
Q: Are they gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just ensure your Parmesan is GF (some brands add wheat starch).
Final Thoughts: Crispy Comfort, Simplified
Baked Parmesan Potato Fries prove that you don’t need a deep fryer to create something crave-worthy. With their golden crunch, savory cheese, and herb-kissed aroma, they’re the kind of side that steals the show—even next to burgers or steak.
So scrub those potatoes, grate that cheese, and bake a batch that’ll have everyone reaching for “just one more.”
Made these and heard the crunch of approval? I’d love to hear your twist—did you go truffle? Add rosemary? Share your fry success in the comments below—or tag me on social. And if you know someone who thinks oven fries = sad fries, send them this recipe. You’ll change their mind—one crispy wedge at a time! 🥔✨🧀
