Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries

If you’re craving a tasty and indulgent snack, look no further than these Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries! Crispy, golden fries are elevated with the savory flavors of smoky bacon, aromatic garlic, and the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. This irresistible combination makes for a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s how you can make these Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries at home!

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then slice them into fries about 1/4 inch thick. Soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness. After soaking, pat the fries dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Season the Fries

In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. The smoked paprika gives the fries a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon and garlic.

Step 3: Bake the Fries

Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

While the fries are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, drain it on a paper towel, and crumble it into small pieces.

Step 5: Garlic Parmesan Topping

In the same skillet used for bacon, add the minced garlic and cook over low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once done, remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Fries

Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with crumbled bacon, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together gently so the cheese melts into the hot fries, and the garlic and bacon distribute evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. These Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries are best served hot and enjoyed immediately!

Tips for the Perfect Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries:

• Crispiness Tip: If you want extra crispy fries, try using a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow air circulation around the fries while baking.
• Add More Heat: For a spicy twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top along with the garlic and Parmesan.
• Serving Suggestions: These fries are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or a creamy garlic aioli.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Flavorsome: The combination of smoky bacon, savory Parmesan, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Crispy Fries: By soaking and baking the fries at a high temperature, you achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients—just simple, everyday items that make a delicious impact!

Whether you’re making these fries as a side dish for dinner or a snack for game day, Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries will be a hit with everyone. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and smoky treat that will have you coming back for more!

Serving Tips for Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries:

1. Serve Immediately: These fries are best enjoyed fresh and hot right out of the oven when they’re crispy and the Parmesan cheese is still melting. If serving as a side dish, pair them with a hearty main like a burger, steak, or grilled chicken.
2. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dips for extra flavor! Popular choices include ranch dressing, ketchup, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo. A creamy blue cheese dressing also complements the smoky bacon perfectly.
3. Garnish for Color and Flavor: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness, but you can also try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or extra Parmesan for a cheesier flavor.
4. Make It a Meal: You can turn these fries into a meal by adding toppings like shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even a fried egg on top for a “loaded fries” experience.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store the Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the fries will lose some of their crispiness as they cool down.
2. Reheating: To revive the crispy texture, reheat the fries in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes. You can also place them under the broiler for a couple of minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes for extra crispiness.
3. Freezing: If you’d like to make a larger batch to enjoy later, freezing these fries is an option. Lay the cooked fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries stay delicious whether you’re enjoying them fresh or saving them for later!

1. Can I make these fries ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the fries ahead of time! You can slice and soak the potatoes in water, and even cook the bacon in advance. To ensure maximum freshness, bake the fries just before serving. If you’re short on time, you can bake them a day before, and then reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

2. Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes? Absolutely! Using frozen fries can save you time. Simply season the frozen fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before baking. Follow the package instructions for baking, and then top them with the bacon, garlic, and Parmesan once they’re done.

3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? To make the Smoky Bacon Garlic Parmesan Fries vegetarian, you can skip the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Consider using smoked tempeh or crumbled vegetarian “bacon” for that smoky, savory flavor. You can also add extra cheese or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.

4. Can I make these fries spicier? Yes, you can easily add more heat! Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the fries after baking, or mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the seasoning mix before tossing the fries. For an extra spicy kick, you can also serve the fries with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or chipotle ranch.

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