Crispy Garlic Herb French Fries with Aioli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy perfection: Crisp exterior with a fluffy center, enhanced by garlic-herb flavor.
• Made-at-home luxury: Restaurant-style fries without deep frying.
• Dipping delight: Homemade aioli elevates the flavor even more.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the fries

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• Olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Garlic powder and/or minced fresh garlic
• Fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme), finely chopped
• Salt & pepper

For the garlic-herb aioli

• Mayonnaise
• Garlic, finely minced or pressed
• Fresh lemon juice
• Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme)
• Salt & pepper

directions

1. Prep fries
   • Preheat oven to 425 °F (220 °C) or air-fryer to 400 °F (200 °C).
   • Wash and cut potatoes into ⅓–½-inch sticks; pat dry thoroughly.
2. Season & bake
   • In a large bowl, toss potatoes with oil, garlic powder (or fresh garlic), herbs, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
   • Spread fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or air-fryer basket).
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. For air-fryer, cook for 20–25 minutes, shaking basket occasionally.
3. Make aioli
   • Meanwhile, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
4. Serve
   • Transfer fries to a platter, garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of salt.
   • Serve hot with garlic-herb aioli on the side.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 as a side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes (oven) or 20–25 minutes (air-fryer)
Total time: ~40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the seasoning.
• Cheesy touch: Toss fries with grated Parmesan after baking.
• Vegan aioli: Use plant-based mayo and omit dairy.
• Sweet potato fries: Substitute sweet potatoes; adjust cook time as needed.

storage/reheating

• Storing: Keep fries and aioli separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating fries: Reheat in a 400 °F oven or air-fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Aioli: Stir before serving; may thicken slightly when chilled.

FAQs

What potatoes make the crispiest fries?

Starchy varieties like Russets create a crispier texture; Yukon Golds offer a slightly creamier inside.

Can I soak the potatoes?

Yes—soaking for 30 minutes removes starch and enhances crispiness. Just dry thoroughly before seasoning.

Is air-frying healthier?

Yes—air-frying requires less oil while still creating a crunchy finish.

How long can aioli be stored?

Aioli lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it’s stored in a clean, sealed container.

Can I bake fries from frozen?

Yes—toss frozen fries with oil and herbs, then bake according to package instructions until extra crisp.

How do I prevent soggy fries?

Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet; give fries plenty of space to crisp properly.

What herbs work best?

Parsley, rosemary, and thyme provide bright, aromatic flavors—but use your preference.

Can I prepare ahead?

Cut fries and whisk aioli base ahead; season and bake just before serving.

How can I make aioli more garlic-forward?

Add an extra garlic clove or a pinch of garlic powder to enhance flavor.

Are air-fryer and oven coupons equivalent?

Air-fryer fries cook faster and may be crisper due to air circulation; ovens may need longer baking time.

Conclusion

These Crispy Garlic Herb French Fries with Aioli bring elevated flavor and comfort to any meal. Golden, fragrant, and dipping-ready, they’re sure to become a favorite side or snack.

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