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There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of fries—golden on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor. But if you’re following a keto lifestyle, traditional potato fries are off the menu due to their high carb content. That’s where these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Fries come in!
Instead of potatoes, we use a genius low-carb substitute that crisps up beautifully while staying completely keto-friendly. Infused with garlic, parmesan, and the perfect blend of seasonings, these fries are a must-try for anyone craving a satisfying snack or side dish that won’t knock them out of ketosis.
The air fryer does all the magic here, making these fries crispy with minimal oil—no deep frying needed! Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights or guilt-free snacking.
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Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Fries
- Crispy and flavorful – These fries have the perfect crunch, thanks to the air fryer and the delicious garlic parmesan seasoning.
- Low in carbs – A fantastic alternative to traditional fries that won’t spike your blood sugar.
- Quick & easy – No need to heat up a deep fryer; the air fryer does the job in under 20 minutes.
- Customizable – Switch up the seasonings or add different flavors to suit your taste.
- Perfect side dish or snack – Pairs beautifully with burgers, steaks, or as a standalone treat.
My Personal Experience
I’ve always been a fry lover, and giving them up for keto wasn’t easy. I tried so many alternatives—zucchini fries, turnip fries, even cheese fries—but nothing quite hit the spot like these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Fries.
The first time I made them, I was skeptical about how crispy they would get. But once they came out of the air fryer, golden brown with a heavenly garlic-parmesan aroma, I was hooked! I immediately dipped one into a keto-friendly sauce, and WOW—crispy, flavorful, and totally satisfying.
These have now become a staple in my keto kitchen. Whether I’m pairing them with a juicy bunless burger or just enjoying them on their own, they always deliver on taste and texture.
Required Equipment
To make these crispy keto fries, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Each one plays an important role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor!
- Air Fryer – This is the key to getting that perfect crisp without deep frying. The circulating hot air ensures every fry is golden and crunchy. If you haven’t used one before, trust me—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
- Sharp Knife – Since we’re using a firmer vegetable as a potato substitute, a sharp, sturdy knife makes cutting easy and safe.
- Cutting Board – A stable surface is a must for chopping up your fries evenly. I always prefer one that’s easy to clean and doesn’t slip around.
- Mixing Bowls – For tossing the fries with oil, garlic, and parmesan. A deep bowl helps evenly coat every fry without making a mess.
- Tongs – Perfect for flipping the fries halfway through cooking. A good pair of tongs ensures even crispiness on all sides!
Ingredients & Substitutions
These simple ingredients come together for a flavor-packed, low-carb fry experience.
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium rutabaga (about 10 oz), peeled and cut into fries – The star of the recipe! Rutabaga is lower in carbs than potatoes but still has that satisfying texture. You can also use jicama, turnips, or daikon radish as substitutes.
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil – Helps the fries crisp up beautifully. You can swap with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a rich, garlicky flavor without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory depth of the fries.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a hint of smokiness and adds a gorgeous color.
- Salt & black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
Parmesan Topping
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – Creates a deliciously cheesy, salty crust on the fries. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh chopped parsley) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Optional
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – If you love an herby touch.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes – For a spicy kick!
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Fries
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
- Peel the rutabaga and cut it into thin, even fries (about ¼-inch thick). Keeping them uniform ensures they cook evenly.
- Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps with crispiness.
Step 2: Season the Fries
- Drain and pat the fries completely dry with a paper towel.
- Toss them in a large mixing bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat evenly!
Step 3: Air Fry the Fries
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them, or they won’t crisp up properly.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Add Parmesan Topping
- Immediately sprinkle the parmesan cheese and parsley over the hot fries. Toss gently so the cheese melts slightly.
Tips for the Best Keto Fries
- Soaking is key – Don’t skip the soaking step; it helps remove starch and improves crispiness.
- Thin, even cuts – Uniform fries cook evenly and crisp up better.
- Don’t overcrowd – Give each fry space in the air fryer for maximum crunch.
Optional Additions
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
- Top with crispy bacon crumbles for extra flavor.
Serving Ideas
- With a keto burger – The perfect side dish!
- Dipped in sugar-free ketchup or garlic aioli.
- Topped with melted cheese and jalapeños for keto cheese fries.
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for best crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
What’s the best substitute for rutabaga?
Try jicama, turnips, or daikon radish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 140
- Total Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Keto Fries Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium rutabaga about 10 oz, peeled and cut into fries
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Peel the rutabaga and cut it into ¼-inch thick fries.
- Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat them completely dry.
- In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
- Immediately sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and parsley, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot with your favorite keto-friendly dip!
I’m so excited to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 😊 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, tasty recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. Want to make your keto journey easier? Get a meal plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences, designed to keep you on track effortlessly. Start your personalized plan now!
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