Better than fries

Looking for something better than fries? These Crispy Parmesan Herb Potato Bites are a game-changer! They offer a delightful combination of crispy exterior and creamy, tender interior with a boost of flavor from the Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. They are the perfect side dish, snack, or appetizer, and they’ll quickly become a favorite that will have everyone asking for more.

These crispy potato bites are easy to make, loaded with flavor, and they might just be better than traditional fries. So let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

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Ingredients:

For the Potato Bites:

• 2 lbs (about 900g) Yukon Gold potatoes (or any other waxy potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (or a mix of both)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

For Dipping Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill or parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Cut the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Since we are leaving the skins on for extra texture and flavor, make sure they are clean. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks, roughly 1-inch in size. The smaller the pieces, the crispier they will get.
3. Soak the Potatoes (optional but recommended): Soak the potato pieces in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps them crisp up better during roasting. After soaking, pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove any moisture.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

1. Toss with Olive Oil: In a large bowl, add the drained and dried potato pieces. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss until evenly coated. The oil helps crisp up the potatoes as they roast.
2. Add the Seasonings: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary (or thyme), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Toss again to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. Add Parmesan: For an extra crispy and flavorful bite, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the potatoes and toss gently. The cheese will melt into the potatoes during baking, creating a golden, crispy coating.

Step 3: Roast the Potato Bites

1. Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned potato pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the pieces aren’t overcrowded, as this will help them crisp up better.
2. Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through. The potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside. You may need to adjust the time slightly depending on your oven and the size of your potato pieces.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish: Once the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
2. Serve with Dipping Sauce (optional): For an extra burst of flavor, serve the crispy potato bites with a creamy dipping sauce. To make the sauce, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh chopped dill or parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well and serve alongside the potato bites.

Step 5: Enjoy!

• Serve your Crispy Parmesan Herb Potato Bites hot and enjoy the crispy exterior and creamy interior. Whether you’re pairing them with a main dish, serving them as a snack, or enjoying them on their own, they are sure to be a hit!

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Tips and Variations:

• Herb Variations: Feel free to switch up the herbs based on your preferences. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano all work wonderfully with potatoes.
• Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can substitute with Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add a Kick: For a spicier version, sprinkle a little cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes on the potatoes before roasting.
• Sweet Potato Option: You can substitute the Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and nutrient-rich alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as sweet potatoes may cook faster.
• Air Fryer Version: If you prefer using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C), and cook the potato bites in batches for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
• Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast is also a great alternative to give a cheesy flavor.

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Why These Are Better Than Fries:

These Crispy Parmesan Herb Potato Bites are better than fries for several reasons:

1. Crispier Texture: The potato bites are cut into chunks, which increases the surface area, allowing for a crispier texture compared to traditional fries.
2. Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs makes these bites packed with flavor. They are far more savory and aromatic than regular fries.
3. More Versatile: These bites can be served in a variety of ways—whether as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. You can also customize them with different dips, herbs, and cheeses.
4. Crisp, Creamy Interior: While fries can sometimes be too starchy or dry on the inside, the creamy interior of these potato bites adds a satisfying contrast to the crispy exterior, making each bite more enjoyable.

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These Crispy Parmesan Herb Potato Bites are crispy, flavorful, and a total upgrade from regular fries. The combination of the crunchy outside and creamy inside, along with the savory Parmesan and herbs, makes them irresistible. Whether you serve them as a side or snack, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your home.