Parmesan Fingerling Fries
Are you ready to elevate your fries game? These Parmesan Fingerling Fries are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness and tender potato. With a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor, they make for a fantastic side dish or a snack that you won’t be able to resist. Fingerling potatoes are not only adorable but they also have a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the salty Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just looking for a quick bite, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
Fingerling potatoes have a unique shape and a naturally sweet flavor that enhance the overall taste of the fries. The combination of olive oil and melted butter helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only amps up the flavor but also creates a deliciously cheesy crust that you’ll want to savor with every bite. The blend of garlic powder and Italian herbs infuses the fries with a delightful aroma, making them irresistible.
Ingredient List
- 2 pounds fingerling potatoes, washed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 10 turns McCormick Italian Blend Herb Grinder
- 3/4 cup freshly finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Baking sheet – for roasting the fries
- Parchment paper – helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking
- Large bowl – for mixing ingredients
- Measuring spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement
- Rimmed spatula – for flipping the fries
Parmesan Fingerling Fries Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving crispy fries.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the fingerling potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. You can leave them whole or slice them in half lengthwise for more surface area to get crispy.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, garlic powder, pepper, and Italian herb blend. Toss the fingerling potatoes in the mixture until they’re well coated.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned potatoes and toss lightly to combine, ensuring every fry is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
Step 6: Bake the Fries
Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Add Final Touches
Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle with the finely chopped fresh parsley and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Parmesan Fingerling Fries!
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
- For dairy-free: Use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative.
- For gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure any packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- For lower sodium: Reduce the amount of salt used and opt for a salt-free herb blend.
What Could Go Wrong
Even the best recipes can have hiccups. Here are some common pitfalls:
- If fries are soggy, it may be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer.
- Overcooking can lead to burnt fries. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
- Using pre-grated cheese can result in less flavor and a different texture. Freshly grated cheese is always best!
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
These Parmesan Fingerling Fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can prep them ahead of time! Simply season the potatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, follow the baking instructions as directed. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.
Quick Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While fingerling potatoes are ideal for their unique texture, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size.
Can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the seasoned fingerling potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
What can I serve with Parmesan Fingerling Fries?
These fries pair well with a variety of dishes, including Parmesan Crusted Chicken Cutlets, grilled veggies, or even as a side to a fresh salad.
Can I freeze the fries?
While it’s not recommended to freeze cooked fries, you can freeze raw seasoned fingerling potatoes. Simply toss them in the seasoning and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for long-term storage. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Wrap-Up
This recipe for Parmesan Fingerling Fries is a must-try for potato lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. The combination of crispy texture and rich flavors will make these fries your new favorite side dish. They are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for serving alongside your favorite main courses or as a snack during movie night. Try them out, and you might just find yourself making these fries a regular part of your meal rotation!
Parmesan Fingerling Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving crispy fries.
- Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes - Wash the fingerling potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. You can leave them whole or slice them in half lengthwise for more surface area to get crispy.
- Step 3: Season the Potatoes - In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, garlic powder, pepper, and Italian herb blend. Toss the fingerling potatoes in the mixture until they’re well coated.
- Step 4: Add the Parmesan - Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned potatoes and toss lightly to combine, ensuring every fry is coated in cheesy goodness.
- Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
- Step 6: Bake the Fries - Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Add Final Touches - Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve - Remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle with the finely chopped fresh parsley and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Parmesan Fingerling Fries!
Notes
- For a healthier option, try using less butter or substitute with olive oil.
- Experiment with different herbs for added flavor, like rosemary or thyme.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
