Garlic Parmesan Parsnip Fries

Garlic Parmesan Parsnip Fries are a delicious surprise for anyone who hasn't tried parsnips. They roast up sweet and nutty, with crispy golden edges.

Roasted parsnip fries tossed in garlic, Parmesan and parsley. Earthy, sweet and crispy at the edges. Tossed with garlic, Parmesan and fresh parsley, they make a cozy side that's perfect for fall and winter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet, nutty flavor
• Crispy golden edges
• Garlicky and cheesy
• Easy sheet-pan side

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Parsnip Fries

• 2 lbs (900 g) parsnips, peeled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Equipment You’ll Need

• Sharp chef's knife and cutting board
• Two rimmed baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl for tossing
• Metal spatula for flipping

Ingredient Notes

• Parsnips: Medium parsnips are sweetest.
• Garlic: Added at the end to avoid bitterness.
• Parsley: Adds freshness.

The Secret to Crispy Parsnip Fries

Parsnips have a high sugar content that caramelizes in the oven, giving deep golden color. Removing the woody core from thick ends ensures every fry cooks evenly, and adding the garlic and Parmesan at the end keeps them from burning.

Full measurements and printable instructions are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Parsnip Fries

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment.

Step 2

Cut the parsnips into thin fries, removing any woody core from thick ends.

Step 3

Toss with cornstarch, olive oil, salt and pepper.

Step 4

Bake 15 minutes, flip and bake 8-10 minutes more.

Step 5

Toss with garlic and Parmesan and bake 2-3 minutes more.

Step 6

Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Tips for the Best Results

• Remove woody cores.
• Cut evenly.
• Add garlic last.

Variations to Try

• Add a drizzle of honey.
• Mix with carrot fries.
• Use rosemary instead of parsley.

What to Serve With It

Serve alongside roast chicken, steak or holiday dinners with garlic aioli.

Storage and Reheating

Adding the garlic at the end prevents it from burning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to keep the edges crispy.

Is It Healthy?

Parsnips are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, folate and potassium. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, so they need very little added fat or seasoning. Compared to regular potato fries, parsnip fries offer more fiber and a unique nutty flavor. They're a wonderful way to add variety to your vegetable rotation, especially in fall and winter when parsnips are at their sweetest and most affordable at the market.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Parsnip fries are a lovely side for holiday dinners and Sunday roasts. They're also a fun snack for anyone curious to try a new root vegetable.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Peel and cut parsnips up to 2 days ahead and store them in water in the fridge. Dry before roasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do parsnips taste like?

Sweet, nutty and slightly earthy, like a sweeter carrot.

Do I need to peel them?

Yes, the skin can be tough.

Can I air fry them?

Yes, 390°F for 12-15 minutes.

Can I mix with carrots?

Yes, they roast at the same rate.

Are they healthy?

Yes, they're high in fiber and vitamin C.

Final Thoughts

Sweet, garlicky and crispy, these parsnip fries might be your new favorite side.

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