Delve into a world of culinary delight with these homemade Truffle Fries, where crispy russet potatoes are elevated to gourmet status by a rich drizzle of truffle oil, a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, and a burst of freshness from parsley. Perfect as an appetizing side dish or a decadent snack, these fries promise to bring a touch of luxury to your table!
Budget Information
The total cost for making these Truffle Fries is approximately $9.00, which breaks down to about $2.25 per serving (4 servings total). Here’s the cost breakdown of the ingredients:
- Extra-virgin olive oil: $0.50
- Russet potatoes (1.5 lbs): $3.00
- Kosher salt: $0.05
- Truffle oil: $2.50
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): $1.00
- Fresh parsley: $1.00
Why This Recipe Works
There’s something undeniably special about Truffle Fries. The balance of the earthy, luxurious truffle oil with the rich, sharp flavor of freshly grated Parmesan transforms ordinary fries into an indulgent treat that feels incredibly gourmet. By using russet potatoes and the right cooking techniques, we achieve a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior—a perfect texture combination that invites you to savor each crispy bite. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to prepare at home!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Truffle Fries, along with some smart substitutions if you’re in a pinch:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or any neutral oil, but olive gives a nice flavor)
- 1 ½ pounds Russet potatoes (sub with Yukon Gold for creamier fries)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt)
- 4 teaspoons black or white truffle oil (go for natural stuff, please!)
- ¼ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (you can use Grana Padano if that’s what you have)
- 1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (substitute with chives for a different herbaceous note)
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to a toasty 450°F (about 232°C), and place a rack in the lower third. This will ensure even cooking and crispiness! While that warms up, grab a large rimmed baking sheet and brush it with 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil, covering it generously to ensure the fries don’t stick.
Step 2: Now, take those beautiful Russet potatoes and slice them into ¼-inch-wide fry-shaped sticks. It’s important to aim for uniformity here to guarantee even cooking. Place these starchy wonders in a large bowl and pour hot tap water over them until the fries are submerged by at least an inch. Let them soak for about 10 minutes—this step is essential for crispiness, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: After they’ve soaked, it’s time to drain those potatoes. Transfer them to a clean towel and pat them dry as thoroughly as possible—this step will keep them from steaming while they bake. Return the dried fries to the bowl and give your kitchen an aromatic burst by rinsing and wiping out the bowl you just used.
Step 4: Drizzle the remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle a heaping teaspoon of salt. Toss everything together until the fries are well-coated and shiny. Now, spread them out in a single layer on your oiled baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space between them so they roast instead of steam.
Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the lower third of your oven and roast the fries for about 20 minutes. You’ll want them starting to turn golden underneath. After that, grab a large, firm spatula, and with care, loosen the fries from the bottom of the pan. Flip them over in larger sections—no need to be overly meticulous about it. Carefully spread them back into a single layer.
Step 6: Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye on them until they’re golden and crispy to your liking. Each oven is unique, so feel free to adjust the time to get that perfect crunch!
Step 7: Once your crispy fries are done, transfer them to a large bowl and quickly drizzle with truffle oil. Immediately sprinkle on the Parmesan, chopped parsley, and an extra pinch of salt. Toss everything gently to coat, and then pile these glorious fries onto a serving plate. Dive in and enjoy the gourmet experience right from your kitchen!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 288 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 31 g
Total Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 298 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Truffle Fries? No problem! Just throw them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place an empty baking sheet inside while it warms up (this preheating step is key!). Once the oven is hot, spread the fries in a single layer on the hot sheet and reheat for about 5 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning—and bring back that stunning crisp!
Serving Suggestions
These Truffle Fries make a spectacular side dish for your favorite bistro-style meals! Try pairing them with juicy Air Fryer Steak Bites for a delightful dinner or whip up some homemade burgers, like a classic blue cheese burger, for a full-on gourmet feast that shines with every bite. They also work wonderfully with a dip—think garlic aioli or a zesty ranch dressing!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
When it comes to the oil, splurging a little on quality truffle oil is worth it! It can transform the flavor of your fries and elevate your dish to a new level. If you’re new to truffle oil, start with the milder white version for a less intense introduction. Oh, and don’t forget, these fries are extra delightful when enjoyed hot and fresh. If you add the Parmesan too early, it won’t melt properly, so save that step until they’re out of the oven!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen fries instead? Absolutely! Just toss frozen fries with olive oil and truffle oil after baking them according to package instructions, then finish with Parmesan and parsley.
What type of potatoes are best for fries? Russet potatoes are ideal for fries due to their high starch content, which creates that crispy outside and fluffy inside. Yukon Golds can also work well if you prefer something creamier.
Can I make these fries in an air fryer? Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, and cook the fries in batches for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through. You will get a crunchy texture without the oiliness!
What if I don’t have truffle oil? You can replace it with a mix of garlic powder and olive oil for a unique flavor. Though it won’t match truffle oil’s distinct taste, it will still be delicious!
How do I make my fries extra crispy? Soaking your potato sticks before baking is crucial; it removes excess starch. Also, ensuring they are spaced well on the baking sheet allows for even cooking and crispiness.