The 5 Club Garlic Parmesan Fries Recipe

Cook fries

If deep-frying: heat oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry frozen fries in batches, avoiding crowding, until golden and crispy, 3–5 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper-towel-lined tray and immediately season with 1 tsp kosher salt. If baking/air-frying: preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Toss fries lightly with 1–2 tbs oil, spread in a single layer on a sheet pan (or air fryer basket) and bake/air-fry until crisp and golden, 18–25 minutes, turning once; season with 1 tsp kosher salt when done.

Make garlic butter

While fries are cooking, melt 4 tbs unsalted butter with 1 tbs olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant and just softened, about 45–60 seconds to 1 minute — do not brown the garlic (browning will make it bitter).

Combine flavors

Remove skillet from heat and stir in the finely chopped parsley, lemon zest, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tsp red pepper flakes if using. Allow the garlic butter to cool slightly for 30 seconds so it won’t melt all the grated cheese immediately.

Toss with fries

Place the hot fries in a large mixing bowl or leave them on the tray. Pour the garlic-parmesan butter evenly over the fries and toss gently but thoroughly with tongs or two spoons so every fry is lightly coated. The heat from the fries will help the butter distribute.

Add cheeses

Immediately sprinkle 1 cup grated Parmesan and 2 tbs grated Pecorino (if using) over the tossed fries. Toss gently once more so the cheeses cling to the butter-coated fries. Taste and add additional salt if needed but be conservative—the cheeses are salty.

Transfer the garlic-Parmesan fries to a serving platter. Sprinkle the extra 2 tbs grated Parmesan over the top, then scatter the finely chopped scallions or chives and remaining 2 tbs chopped parsley. Garnish with parsley sprigs if desired and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Serve immediately while hot and crisp alongside ketchup, ranch, or your choice of dipping sauce.