Garlic Parmesan Yam Fries

Crispy on the outside and meltingly soft in the center these Garlic Parmesan Yam Fries are the answer whenever I crave something savory and snackable yet a little more wholesome than regular fries This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of yams and pairs it with garlicky cheesy goodness for a side dish that disappears fast every time I serve it

I first whipped these up to impress my cheese-loving friend during game night and since then they have become a go-to for everything from casual barbecues to cozy movie nights

Ingredients

• Yams: Essential for their natural sweetness and crisp edges Choose ones that are firm and vibrant orange inside for best texture
• Olive oil: Coats the fries to promote browning and keep spices glued on Select extra virgin for best flavor
• Sea salt: Enhances the flavors Opt for flaky or fine varieties to get the right seasoning throughout
• Freshly ground black pepper: Balances the sweetness and adds gentle heat Grind just before using for maximum potency
• Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky depth Look for a deep red hue which hints at good quality spice
• Garlic: Fresh cloves deliver a bold punch Mince finely using a sharp knife to prevent burning
• Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and a salty crunch Grate your own from a wedge for best melt and flavor
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh note Go for flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor and color

Instructions

Prep the Yams:

Peel yams and cut them into uniform 1/2-inch thick fries for even cooking This helps every piece cook at the same rate and get crispy edges

Toss Fries with Seasonings:

In a large bowl coat the cut yams in olive oil salt pepper and smoked paprika Toss vigorously with your hands to make sure each fry is glistening and evenly seasoned

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Lay out the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet Do not crowd them or they will steam and turn soggy

Bake Until Golden:

Slide the tray into a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit Bake for 25 minutes flipping the fries over halfway through to ensure both sides brown beautifully

Add Garlic Burst:

Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the fries after the initial bake and return them to the oven for another five minutes This brings out the garlic’s flavor and prevents it from burning

Toss with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs:

As soon as the fries come out while they are piping hot shower them with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley Toss quickly so the cheese melts slightly and clings to the fries

Serve Hot:

Transfer to a platter and serve immediately when they are at their crispiest Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven

Pin Recipe

Nothing beats fresh garlic in this treat I adore the way the aroma fills my kitchen and reminds me of Sunday afternoons spent experimenting with my family everyone sneaking hot fries straight from the tray

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best results reheat on a baking sheet in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit to revive the crispiness Do not recommend storing with parsley already sprinkled on as it will wilt

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use sweet potatoes in place of yams as the texture is similar and both roast up beautifully For a dairy free version try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan or skip cheese entirely smoked paprika and garlic still pack a punch

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve these alongside a garlicky aioli or even a spicy sriracha yogurt dip They pair well with burgers grilled meats or as a hearty topping for salads For a crowd set them out with a variety of dips and watch the plate disappear

Cultural and Historical Context

Yams and sweet potatoes have long been celebrated in American kitchens for their versatility and nutritional value though they actually come from different plant families Baking them instead of frying is a newer twist that aligns with health trends but also lets their natural flavor shine Parmesan as a finishing touch reflects Mediterranean influence adding extra savoriness

Seasonal Adaptations

Roast root veggies like carrots or parsnips alongside yams in winter for a more robust side Add a dash of cayenne on chilly days for an extra warming kick Garnish with chives or dill during spring when fresh herbs are especially aromatic

Success Stories

A good friend shared that these fries converted her kids from classic potato fries They now ask her to make the garlic version weekly for lunchboxes and after-school snacks The easy preparation has made this recipe a staple during their busy weekdays

Freezer Meal Conversion

For make ahead convenience cut the fries and toss with oil and spices then spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze Once frozen transfer to a zip top bag and keep in the freezer Bake from frozen adding about 5 to 7 minutes to the cooking time

Pin Recipe

Enjoy these Garlic Parmesan Yam Fries fresh out of the oven and feel free to experiment with spices and herbs to suit your taste They are fastest to disappear at any gathering

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get extra crispy yam fries?

Soak yam fries in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry thoroughly before baking. Bake at high heat and flip halfway.

→ Can I substitute sweet potatoes for yams?

Yes, sweet potatoes can easily replace yams, offering a subtle difference in flavor and texture.

→ What pairs well with these fries?

Serve with aioli, your favorite dipping sauce, or pair them with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light lager.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the fries are gluten-free if you verify that the Parmesan cheese has no gluten cross-contamination.

→ How can I keep fries from getting soggy?

Spread fries in a single layer, avoid overcrowding, and ensure the oven is fully preheated to maintain crispness.