Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Garlic Fries with Aioli
šŸ‘Øā€šŸ³ Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

šŸŽ“ 10+ Years Experience ā° 1000+ Recipes Created šŸ½ļø Culinary Graduate

ā¤ļø My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of crispy garlic fries during a summer road trip, and since then, I've been perfecting my recipe. The combination of crunchy fries and creamy aioli has always been a hit at gatherings. Each batch reminds me of those sunny days filled with laughter and good food. Now, Iā€™m excited to share this recipe that brings joy to every table!"

Chef Mitchell is a seasoned expert in American cuisine, with a passion for comfort food. His culinary journey began in small diners and has led him to create numerous beloved recipes. Mitchell specializes in elevating classic dishes with fresh, innovative spins that make them even more delightful.

View All Mitchell's Recipes ā†’
A plate of crispy garlic fries beautifully garnished with fresh parsley, served with a side of creamy aioli.

Why This Crispy Garlic Fries with Aioli Recipe Works

This recipe is a game-changer because it combines the simple pleasure of fries with the bold flavor of garlic. Using fresh ingredients and homemade aioli elevates the dish beyond ordinary. The method of soaking the fries ensures they are perfectly crispy, while the seasoning brings out their natural sweetness.

Expect a delightful crunch with every bite, thanks to the high baking temperature and careful preparation. The aioli adds a creamy tang that complements the garlic fries perfectly, making it a delightful flavor experience. Each element is crafted to enhance the overall taste and texture, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and addictive.

šŸ’” Professional Tip

For the crispiest fries, ensure to soak them long enough to release the starch. Also, make sure to spread them out evenly on the baking sheet without overcrowding, allowing hot air to circulate for an even bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the fries in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep them soaked in water to prevent browning. When ready to bake, ensure they are dried thoroughly for the best texture.

If you want to avoid mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. It provides creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. Another option is to blend silken tofu for a vegan-friendly aioli.

Baking is the best method for making crispy garlic fries as it reduces excess oil and keeps them healthier. Frying can give you that extra crunch, but baking keeps it simple and less messy. Both methods work well, but baking allows for an easy cleanup.

To prevent sogginess, be sure to soak the fries long enough and dry them thoroughly before baking. Additionally, using a hot oven ensures that the fries cook quickly, creating a crispy exterior.

The fries are perfectly done when they are golden brown and crisp. You can also check for doneness by giving them a gentle shake; if they sound hollow, they're ready!

Crispy garlic fries pair well with burgers, sandwiches, or as a snack on their own. They also make a great side dish for grilled meats or seafood. Serve them at parties with cocktails for a delightful appetizer.

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick. For the aioli, a dash of hot sauce can turn it into a zesty dip.

Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 400Ā°F (200Ā°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy again.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

āœ…

Fries are too soggy

Problem: If your fries turn out soggy, it may be due to excess moisture.

Solution: Ensure you soak the fries for the right amount of time and dry them thoroughly before baking. The hot oven also helps to crisp them up quickly.

āœ…

Fries are burned on the outside but raw inside

Problem: This issue often occurs if the fries are too thick or the oven temperature is too high.

Solution: Cut the fries thinner for even cooking and consider lowering the oven temperature slightly to allow them to cook through without burning.

āœ…

Aioli is too thick

Problem: If your aioli ends up too thick, it can be hard to dip.

Prevention: You can thin it out by whisking in a little water or additional lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.

āœ…

Flavors are too strong

Problem: Sometimes the flavors can become overpowering if too much garlic is used.

Recovery: Balance strong flavors by adding more mayonnaise to the aioli or serving the fries with a milder dipping sauce.

āœ…

Fries lack flavor

Problem: If the fries taste bland, it could be due to insufficient seasoning.

Prevention: Make sure to season the fries generously with salt and spices before baking. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving can also enhance the flavor.

āœ…

Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If the fries taste too sweet, a sprinkle of salt can help balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If your fries are too salty, serve with a side of unsalted aioli to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: To enhance bland fries, consider adding a dusting of garlic powder or fresh herbs just before serving.

An arranged display of fresh russet potatoes, garlic cloves, olive oil, and seasonings for Crispy Garlic Fries with Aioli.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Crispy Garlic Fries with Aioli

Selecting quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your fries. Opt for fresh russet potatoes, which provide the ideal starch content for crispiness. Fresh garlic will ensure a punchy, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.

When it comes to the aioli, using high-quality mayonnaise will yield a smoother and creamier texture. Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the aioli's brightness and flavor profile. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for making fries due to their high starch content. This starch allows the fries to become crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.
  • Fresh Garlic: Using fresh garlic is essential for a robust flavor in both the fries and aioli. Avoid garlic powder, as it lacks the aroma and flavor intensity of fresh cloves.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a golden, crispy texture when baking fries. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
The process of baking crispy garlic fries in the oven, showing golden-brown fries on a baking sheet.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to perfect crispy garlic fries lies in the preparation and cooking techniques. Soaking the potatoes removes excess starch, which is crucial for achieving that desired crunch. After drying them thoroughly, seasoning is the next important step to ensure every fry is packed with flavor.

Baking at a high temperature allows moisture to escape quickly, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. Keep an eye on the fries as they bake, flipping them halfway through for even cooking and to prevent burning.

The Secret to Perfect Crispy Garlic Fries with Aioli

The secret lies in soaking the potatoes before cooking, which helps draw out excess starch for optimal crispiness. Additionally, the use of fresh garlic both in the fries and the aioli adds a depth of flavor that elevates this dish to a gourmet level.

Crispy Garlic Fries with Aioli

Prep 15 min
Cook 30 min
Serves 4-6 servings
Level Easy

šŸ“‹ Ingredients

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    Base for aioli
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Adds brightness
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    Enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
    For a garlicky kick
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    Adds depth and color

Main

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes
    Cut into thin fries
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    For robust flavor
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For frying and flavor
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt
    Enhances taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes

    Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into thin strips to form fries.

  2. Soak the Fries

    Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

  3. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 425Ā°F (220Ā°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  4. Drain and Dry the Fries

    After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove moisture.

  5. Season the Fries

    In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

  6. Bake the Fries

    Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  7. Prepare the Aioli

    In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and smoked paprika until smooth.

  8. Serve and Enjoy

    Once the fries are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with aioli on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the fries and aioli ahead of time. Store the fries soaked in water in the fridge and make the aioli a day in advance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crispy garlic fries with burgers, sandwiches, or as a standalone snack. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for variety.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the aioli by adding herbs or spices. You can also try sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a unique twist.