Cheesy Fries
Crispy, cheesy fries with Parmesan and spices, perfect as a snack or side dish for any casual meal or gathering, offering rich flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub the potatoes, leaving skin on.
- Cut each potato into 8 wedges.
- Melt the butter in a large pie plate.
- Dip the potato wedges into the melted butter.
- Arrange the wedges in a donut pattern in the pie plate.
- Combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Sprinkle the cheese and spice mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Bake at 375°F until the potatoes are just tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For crispier fries, soak the potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with cheddar for a different flavor or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Feel free to add other seasonings like chili powder or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy fries make a fantastic side dish for burgers or sandwiches and can be served with a dipping sauce like ranch or ketchup. They pair beautifully with Beer Batter Potato Wedges for a fun, shared appetizer. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheesy fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Fries contains roughly 464 calories, with 12g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheesy fries in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato wedges and toss them in the butter and seasoning mixture ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and bake them just before serving. This way, you can enjoy fresh, hot cheesy fries without the last-minute hassle.
What type of potatoes work best for cheesy fries?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. However, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture if you prefer. Just ensure they are firm and not overly waxy.
Can I add other toppings to the cheesy fries?
Absolutely! You can customize your cheesy fries by adding toppings like crispy bacon bits, jalapeños, or green onions. For a more indulgent version, drizzle melted cheese sauce over the top or serve with guacamole for a twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).