Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries

Name: Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries because they are the perfect combination of crispy and cheesy. The air fryer gives them that satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep frying. I can't help but snack on them straight out of the basket, especially when they are warm and sprinkled with fresh herbs. With just a handful of ingredients, these fries are not only easy to prepare, but they're also a hit with family and friends during movie nights or game day gatherings.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:58:28.155Z

When I decided to try making potato fries in an air fryer, I was skeptical about achieving that deep-fried texture. However, I was thrilled with the results! The Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that elevates the dish and makes it feel indulgent without heavy oil. I found that a light spray of olive oil before air frying helps achieve the golden-brown color.

Each bite of these fries is bursting with flavor, thanks to the seasoning and cheese. I usually pair them with a simple garlic aioli for dipping, which complements the fries perfectly. Trust me, once you try these, you won't want to go back to standard fries!

Why You Will Love These Fries
Crispy exterior with a cheesy flavor explosion
Healthier than traditional deep-fried fries
Quick and easy to make in just under 40 minutes

The Importance of Potato Choice

When making Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries, the choice of potatoes significantly impacts the final texture and taste. I recommend using russet potatoes due to their high starch content, which results in a crispy exterior. Yukon gold is a good alternative if you're after a slightly creamier interior, but it won't quite match the level of crispiness that russets provide. Always select firm potatoes without blemishes for the best results; this ensures they hold their shape during cutting and cooking.

To prepare your potatoes effectively, ensure they are cut into uniform strips. Thinner fries will cook faster and develop a crunchier texture, while thicker fries may require adjusting the cooking time to prevent sogginess. Aim for about a quarter-inch thickness for a good balance between crispy edges and fluffy interiors. If you notice some pieces are thicker than others after cutting, simply trim them down to size to maintain even cooking.

Flavoring Tips for Maximum Impact

The seasoning blend you use for your Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries is crucial for developing a mouthwatering flavor profile. The garlic powder not only adds depth but also pairs beautifully with the Parmesan cheese, enhancing the overall taste experience. Feel free to experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning if you're looking to switch things up; they introduce an exciting kick or aromatic freshness that can elevate your fries into something gourmet.

Applying the olive oil evenly is also key to achieving that crispy texture. Instead of just tossing, consider using a basting brush to coat the fries with oil if you want a lighter touch. This way, you can ensure that each fry gets just enough oil to crisp up while allowing the seasoning to adhere better. If you're watching your oil intake, air frying with an oil sprayer can help achieve a similar crispiness with less grease.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Fries

4 medium russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries:

Prep the Potatoes

Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin fries, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Season the Fries

In a mixing bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Air Fry the Fries

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F). Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Garnish and Serve

Once golden and crispy, remove the fries from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add chili powder or Italian seasoning to the mix before air frying. Serve these fries with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible snack.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover Parmesan Airfryer Potato Fries, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that reheating them might result in a loss of crispiness, so it's best to reheat in the air fryer for around 5-7 minutes at 180°C (360°F) to keep them as fresh as possible. You can even add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan just before reheating for an extra cheesy boost.

If you want to make fries ahead of time, consider prepping and seasoning them, then place them in an airtight bag in the freezer. You can fry them directly from frozen without needing to thaw, just allow an additional 5-7 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. This method is incredibly convenient for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings, giving you a homemade treat without the wait.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding different cheeses along with or instead of Parmesan to create unique flavors. For example, a combination of cheddar and aged Gouda will melt beautifully and offer a different spin on the classic fry. Additionally, incorporating herbs such as rosemary or thyme into your seasoning mix can add a lovely aromatic note. Just remember that fresh herbs should be added towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrancy.

For a spicy version, consider marinating the fries in a hot sauce or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. This will not only give your fries a kick but will balance well with the cheesy flavor. Sweet potato fries can also be an excellent swap if you're in the mood for a different taste; just be aware that they may require slight adjustments to the cooking time to ensure they reach perfect doneness without burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give a unique flavor and a bit of sweetness, just adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer to cook.

→ How can I make these fries vegan?

You can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to achieve a similar flavor without the animal products.

→ What air fryer model do you recommend?

Any model that allows for adjustable temperature settings will work great, but I personally love using the basket-style air fryer for easy access and even cooking.

→ Can I prep the fries in advance?

Yes! You can cut and season the fries ahead of time and keep them in the fridge. Just air fry them when you're ready to enjoy!