Garlic Parmesan Fries Baked to Perfection: A Quick and Easy Recipe

If you’re craving crispy, savory fries without the guilt, these Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are your perfect solution! This recipe brings all the irresistible flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a light crispiness—all without deep frying. With fewer points and a satisfying crunch, you can enjoy these fries as a side or a snack while staying within your healthy eating goals.

Ingredients

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into thin fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.

Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and peel (if desired) the potatoes. Cut them into thin fries, about 1/4-inch thick. For more uniform cooking, try to keep the size of the fries consistent.
2. Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and will result in crispier fries. After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry with paper towels.

Season the Fries

1. Add the olive oil to the fries and toss until well-coated.
2. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss again until the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Bake the Fries

1. Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the cooking time. The fries should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.

Add Parmesan

1. Once the fries are baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top while the fries are still hot. Toss gently to ensure the cheese sticks to the fries.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley (optional) for a fresh pop of color and added flavor.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: 1/4 of the recipe)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• WW Points: ~3 (based on using olive oil and Parmesan cheese)

Why You’ll Love These Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries

1. Crispy Without the Guilt: By baking these fries instead of frying them, you get all the crispiness you crave without the added calories and fat.
2. Simple Ingredients: The seasoning blend is simple yet flavorful—just garlic, onion powder, oregano, and Parmesan—ingredients that most people already have in their kitchen.
3. Light and Healthy: At only 3 WW points per serving, these fries are an excellent side or snack that won’t derail your healthy eating goals.
4. Customizable: Want to make them spicier? Add some red pepper flakes. Prefer a different seasoning? Try rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist.

Tips for Success

• Soak the Potatoes: Soaking the potatoes in water before baking helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
• Make Them Crispy: If you’re looking for extra crispy fries, try broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, opt for fresh grated Parmesan cheese over the pre-grated variety. It melts and sticks better to the fries.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: Pair these baked fries with a healthy dipping sauce like a light ranch or Greek yogurt-based dip for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: These fries pair perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or a lean steak. Serve them alongside your favorite salad for a balanced meal.
• Snack Time: They also make for a great afternoon snack when you’re craving something crunchy but want to avoid the usual unhealthy options.
• Party Snack: These baked fries are perfect for gatherings or as a party appetizer. Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing snack.

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Fries are the perfect combination of flavor and crunch, and they won’t break your points bank! Easy to make and full of satisfying flavor, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fries, without compromising on taste. Whether you’re serving them as a side or enjoying them as a snack, these crispy delights are sure to become a staple in your Weight Watchers recipe collection!