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These Whole30 Garlic Fries are our family’s hands down FAVE crispy fry. We love that can be done in oven or air fryer. Plus, they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally nut-free and egg-free. Easy to make with only 5 ingredients!
You are going to want to make these again and again!
Why Soak the Fries?
You are going to feel like the extra rinsing/soaking steps aren’t worth it. I get it, I thought so too, but I am *converted* to how important this is to getting a CRISPY fry! My son’s work at a popular burger chain in California called In-N-Out. And what do you know? They soak their fries!
Here’s the science why. Soaking in waterdraws out the starch, making them more rigid and able to get crispy! You can soak them for at least 30 minutes, though overnight yields fantastic results. But equally important is to DRY the fries really well. You can do this just between two towls or with a salad spinner. Interesting note: In-N-Out spins their fries dry!
Garlic oil
Using garlic olive oil will make a big difference in these being garlic flavored (not just garlic piled on top). If you want restaurant-level deliciousness, I recommend using it! I found most affordable at Trader Joe’s or Target. If you can’t find it or isn’t not accessible, these will still taste delicious without it.
Cutting the Fries
Ideally, your fries are cut into even sizes. This helps them cook at the same rate and prevents some from being burned and others not fully cooked. I personally got tired of cutting fries for my large family of 7. But, I loved homemade fries – budget-friendly with minimal ingredients.
The solution? For us, it was worth getting a fry cutter. Again, I saw my son using one at work and thought how handy it was. Unfortunately, I ordered several that broke on the first use or two and I sent right back. But this French Fry Cutter (1/2″ blade) has been a keeper and made the job so much easier! So easy even my 10 year old can do it with one hand! Hands down worth it IMO.
Are Fries Allowed on Whole30?
Short answer: Yes, if they are homemade, like these. Long answer: No commercially prepared fries or chips are allowed on Whole30. You can learn more about this rule here. This includes French fries at a restaurant or fries you might by from the frozen section at the store. Even if they have compatible ingredients, they are often a food with no brakes and not allowed on Whole30. So why are homemade fries allowed? Well, generally they take a fair amount of time to make so are less likely to be over consumed.
In the end, take responsibility for your Whole30. If even homemade fries you find to be a trigger or food with no brakes, they may still be best left out of YOUR Whole30.
Ingredients
- Russet Potatoes – Not all potatoes are equal. The high starch + low moisture level in Russets make them ideal for fries. I recommend Russets for this recipe. You can learn more about the different kinds of potatoes and their uses here.
- Olive or garlic oil –I recommend Garlic Olive Oil, if you can find it. See above section on it for why! But both will work.
- Garlic Powder –I actually prefer granulated garlic, if I can find it. The texture of granulated garlic is better. But either garlic powder or granulated garlic will work.
- Garlic Salt –Garlic salt can actually be hard to find a compatible version of, if you are on a Whole30. My favorite garlic salt is the garlic salt grinder from Trader Joe’s – Whole30 compatible and just tastes better!
- Minced Garlic –This can be fresh garlic cloves minced or pre-minced garlic from a jar. Either works!
Make it a Meal!
We love serving these with these other EASY Whole30 recipes to make a delicious restaurant-type meal at home!
- Date Mustard Sauce (pictured) – My Whole30Date Mustard Sauce is my most popular sauce! It’s a Whole30 “Honey” Mustard seasoned only by dates and full of healthy fats. It’s the one sauce we always have to have in our fridge! Perfect for dipping fries or nuggets into, or as a dressing on a salad.
- Paleo Chick-fil-a Chicken Strips–These Whole30 compatible copycat chicken strips are absolutely delicious and a must try! Perfect to pair with these garlic fries.
- Sloppy Joes – We also love these garlic fries as a side dish to my Whole30 Sloppy Joes. A great kid-friendly meal!
Autumn @wholefoodfor7
Restaurant-level fries that are easy and made from whole foods. A delicious side for any meal!
5 from 36 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Air Fryer Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 341 kcal
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds russet potatoes
- 1/3 + 1/4 cup olive oil or garlic olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
- 1-2 tablespoon minced garlic
Instructions
Cut potatoes into even fry strips. As you are cutting, place cut fries into a large bowl of cold water. Drain the water and rinse the potatoes in a colander.
Fill the large bowl again with cold water and place in fridge for at least 30 minutes. Feel free to have a dance party while you wait. Or make the rest of dinner.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees, if using oven, and line a baking sheet with parchment.
Drain potatoes again, lay flat and dry between two towels. Combine 1/3 cup olive oil and dry potatoes, tossing to coat. Add garlic powder and salt, mixing again.
Place fries flat on the parchment paper or in your airfryer basket.
Cook in the oven at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, stir, then at 425 for 30 minutes or until crispy. In the airfryer, cook at 350 for 15 minutes, stir, and then at 400 for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook remaining 1/4 cup oil + 1-2 tablespoons minced garlic (we like it heavy on the garlic with 2 tablespoons, but you do you!) in a small saucepan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Don't brown!
Toss finished fries with the olive oil + garlic combo and enjoy! If you want to get fancy, you can garnish with a few tablespoons chopped fresh parsley.
Video
Notes
We love these with my Whole30 Date Mustard, our favorite dipping sauce (pictured).
Note: Yes, these homemade fries are Whole30 compliant. BUT, if fries are a food with no brakes for you, these might be SWYPO for you and best saved for after your Whole30.
Nutrition
Calories: 341kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 4gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 1174mgPotassium: 810mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 29mgIron: 2mg
Keyword budget-friendly, dairy-free, easy, egg-free, gluten-free, kid-friendly, paleo, plant-based, side dish, vegan, whole30
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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Amberon January 10, 2024 at 4:16 pm
I think I could survive on these alone!! Thank you for creating recipes that keep me on track and are beyond delicious!Reply
Ingridon September 17, 2023 at 3:23 am
My husband said “these are the best fries I’ve ever had!” Will definitely be be in regular rotation in our house!Reply
Manyaon April 9, 2024 at 5:50 pm
Oh my goodness, these are AMAZING!!!! Definitely the best fries I’ve ever made! They taste like they are from a gourmet burger place! Try them now! I was hesitant about pouring oil on them after they cooked, I thought they would be greasy, but they were heaven. No one in the family dipped them in anything they were that good!
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Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon April 17, 2024 at 10:33 am
YESSS that these are truly restaurant-level good! So happy you gave them a chance and was won over by them. I appreciate the review!
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Brittneyon September 20, 2022 at 5:41 pm
So delicious!!Reply
Elizabethon May 13, 2022 at 10:52 am
Best recipe ever. I will never buy frozen French fries again. So easy and delicious. Thank you.Reply
Meredithon February 3, 2022 at 10:48 pm
My favorite recipe for easy and healthy fries! Big fan if this site!Reply
Meredithon February 3, 2022 at 10:47 pm
My favorite recipe for easy and healthy fries! Big fan of this site!
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Melissaon March 26, 2021 at 4:37 pm
Amazing, simple, fewstaple ingredients that most people have on hand
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Katieon March 2, 2021 at 11:43 am
I am wary of Garlic fries because all the ones I’ve ever had at the ballpark were TOOOO intense. – so I waited to make these. But I will never sleep on these fries again. They’re so good, Crispy, and sautéing the garlic in the oil instead of putting it on raw takes the bite out of it.Reply
Kimberleyon March 1, 2021 at 3:45 am
Holy garlic, Batman! Crazy delicious, even in the oven.Reply
Betsy Tianoon February 28, 2021 at 8:21 pm
My whole family loves these fries! Definitely a staple in our house! So quick, crunchy and savory! Don’t tell anyone but I think I’ve made them three times this week!!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon March 10, 2021 at 7:54 pm
Haha, I love that they are the recipe you just have to make again! Thank you!
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Michelle Baldwinon March 16, 2021 at 3:37 pm
These are an easy and delicious side for almost any meal. My whole family loves them and requests them often. They turn out great in the air fryer.Reply
Sylwia Dijkman-Kućon January 21, 2023 at 10:11 am
They were really good! I will alway soak from now on!Reply
Courtney Berkon February 28, 2021 at 3:46 pm
I loved how crispy these fries turned out! This will be a go to recipe in our home!Reply
Susieon February 28, 2021 at 2:12 pm
Oh my gosh !! These are delicious !! You have such amazing recipes ! Can’t wait to try more !! Thank you for sharing your delicious whole 30 recipes , my family and I thank you !Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon March 10, 2021 at 7:23 pm
I’m so happy you loved these and hope you find some other favorites here!
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Emilyon February 28, 2021 at 1:57 pm
We are making these right now! I know we will love then because we love all of your recipes Autumn! And the soak in cold water trick is much appreciated.
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Not a cookon February 28, 2021 at 1:42 pm
These have become a staple side in our house. Soaking the fries makes all the difference! And if I can make these you know it’s possible for anyone to make them!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon March 10, 2021 at 7:13 pm
I love that, thank you! Agreed that soaking the fries makes such a difference and happy they are a to-go!
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Saraon February 28, 2021 at 1:41 pm
I will never go back to regular fries. These are so yummy. Thank youReply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon March 10, 2021 at 7:10 pm
I love that these are your new favorite fries, thank you!
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Tinaon February 23, 2021 at 7:10 pm
I love the hack with the cold water. Wow! What a difference. Great recipe as usual! Thank you!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon February 25, 2021 at 10:29 pm
YES! Soaking the fries makes all the difference. I won’t make fries without it now. Happy that was a helpful tip!
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Tatianaon February 28, 2021 at 1:56 pm
This one became part of our recipe book after the first try. Amazing recipe. So easy to follow!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon March 10, 2021 at 7:19 pm
So happy it’s a keeper, thank you!
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Raeon February 21, 2021 at 5:46 pm
Oh man, these are some crispy, delicious, and easy to make fries! Definitely take the time to soak them, it’s well worthwhile for the crisp outcome!I served with homemade ranch (yum!!) and I’ll have to try with the date mustard next time!
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Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon February 22, 2021 at 8:22 pm
Agreed, the soaking is worth it, it makes all the crispy difference. So happy you enjoyed, thank you!
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Camilleon February 13, 2021 at 9:52 pm
I made your garlic fries and mustard date sauce tonight for my dad as part of an early Valentines dinner. He loved them! The look on his face when I tossed the dates in the blender with the mustard and mayo was priceless 😳, but he really enjoyed the sauce. You certainly have a gift for creating delicious recipes!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon February 22, 2021 at 7:57 pm
I love that this was part of a Valentine’s dinner for your dad, how sweet it that! And HOORAY that it was a hit. Thank you!
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Hollie Paine-Dodgeon January 28, 2021 at 5:06 pm
These. Are. AMAZING!!! So so sooooo crispy and delicious and just right for Whole 30 day 28. THANK YOU! They’ll be a regular menu staple in our house.Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon January 30, 2021 at 4:28 pm
Wahoo! I’m so thrilled these were enjoyed and are going on the rotation. Thank you!
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Katherine Perroon January 9, 2021 at 5:22 pm
These are just so dang good! The garlic, the crispness! I don’t know if I’ve ever had such good homemade fries! This will be a regular in my house!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon January 11, 2021 at 9:00 pm
I’m so happy these homemade fries won you over! Thank you!
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Heidion November 1, 2020 at 5:46 pm
I made these tonight with the date mustard sauce and the zucchini nuggets. All so good. I sliced the potatoes super skinny and I will definitely make them again!
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Elizabethon October 21, 2020 at 5:47 pm
These fries were so great! And yes, the soaking is key. I just make the rest of dinner while I wait for the fries. Works out well.Reply
Amandaon October 21, 2020 at 12:59 pm
OH. MY. GOODNESS. These fries are amazing!!! I have made them too many times to count and they were one of the foods that got me through my first Whole30. Matter of fact, they are on the menu for Friday night.Reply
RGon February 28, 2021 at 4:59 pm
Excellent! Made these in the oven and they turned out nice and crispy. My kiddos loved them!
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Jackieon October 21, 2020 at 9:33 am
OMG! These are the BEST oven fries I’ve ever made! My husband thought they were from a restaurant 😂 so worth the extra couple steps!Reply
Jessicaon October 19, 2020 at 9:06 pm
These are a must make!! Fantastic! There will be no leftovers because you’ll keep munching away on themReply
Cathy Haleon October 19, 2020 at 4:30 pm
If you are looking for a recipe for fries, look no further!
I have made these both in the oven and in the air fryer. Absolute perfection.
These will most definitely be on rotation in our house.Reply
Sarahon October 19, 2020 at 7:43 am
I love this recipe! The fries smell and taste so delicious and the technique used to cook them is perfect. I usually substitute avocado oil for the olive oil and it works great as well.
Since finding this recipe, I have used the technique to cook regular home fries as well as sweet potatoes as it works so well (parchment paper at a lower temperature and then a higher temperature).
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Felishaon October 20, 2020 at 8:28 pm
I can’t give this more stars but it needs it. This combo is AMAZING! I’m sensitive to nightshades, so I discovered on whole30, so I make this with sweet potatoes instead and it’s still my fav way to eat fries now. Give me all the garlic.Reply
Anita Blumeon October 19, 2020 at 1:55 am
Oh my goodness, yum!!!! We loved the garlic oil and these were so crunchy and delicious!
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Laurenon October 18, 2020 at 6:40 pm
These fries are HANDS DOWN the best fries I have ever made! My family BEGS for them and since they’re so easy to make, we have them almost weekly. Because they’re baked and not fried, cleanup is a breeze too! A+ recipe!!!Reply
Cristinaon October 18, 2020 at 4:47 pm
Delicious fries!!! If you enjoy garlic, you’ll love these. Very crispy and flavorfulReply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon October 18, 2020 at 8:16 pm
Thank you, so happy you enjoyed these!
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Kristaon October 18, 2020 at 4:24 pm
These are a hit with the family!! A weekly easy side dish to a quick meal instead of going to get fast food fry’s somewhere (ugh, guilty). Makes my momma heart happy when my kids are happy to eat whole 30 friendly foods!!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon October 18, 2020 at 8:03 pm
Aw, this makes my mama heart happy too! Thank you!
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Brendaon October 18, 2020 at 4:06 pm
These fries are some of the best I have had…ever! And I love French fries. The layers of garlic flavor is perfect, not over poweringReply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon October 18, 2020 at 7:45 pm
So happy these are a favorite! Thank you!
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L.D.on August 26, 2020 at 4:18 pm
I cannot express to you how GOOD these were. I am a single girl eating paleo and trying to spice up my eating habits instead of eating the same thing over and over. These HIT. THE. SPOT. Soaking them in cold water is a must. I used coconut oil instead of olive oil because I ran out and they turned out DIVINE. Thanks for this recipe, Autumn!!
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Lizon August 8, 2020 at 5:52 pm
I made these tonight for my kids with your 5 ingredient nugget recipe and the date mustard sauce. Everything was delicious! The fries and date mustard sauce are no-brakes food for me. I will definitely make them again and again; they loved everything.Reply
Melodyon July 19, 2020 at 5:05 pm
I made these fries with your nugget recipe and the date mustard sauce and HOLY WOW! Will definitely make these again.Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon July 20, 2020 at 6:35 pm
“Holy wow!” – I love it! I’m so happy you loved those recipes, thank you!
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Michelle Baldwinon October 18, 2020 at 5:12 pm
These fries have such a delicious flavor! They’re seriously addictive!They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. The best part is they’re easy to make. The garlic oil is a game-changer for fries.Reply
Amandaon July 1, 2020 at 6:31 am
What air fryer do you use for your big family? We have five boys!
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Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon July 2, 2020 at 2:55 pm
I love that you are a fellow family of 5 boys! I share what two airfryers I’ve had and what I liked about each of them in this article:
https://wholefoodfor7.com/air-fryer-101/
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Christinaon June 24, 2020 at 7:20 pm
Wow! These are unreal!! Not sure I’ll ever make fries any other way, Fantastic!
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Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon June 24, 2020 at 8:03 pm
Thank you! My family feels the same way, they are now on the weekly rotation, ha!
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Diannaon June 23, 2020 at 6:06 am
These were amazing!!! I’m dreaming of making them again.Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon June 23, 2020 at 3:27 pm
I love it! Food dream worthy – woot!!
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Andreaon October 18, 2020 at 4:01 pm
My husband and I are doing our first Whole30. We’ve been trying to find awesome sides to go along with our burgers. We finally found it in these garlic fries! They were amazing and super simple. I can’t wait to make them again! Thank you!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon October 18, 2020 at 7:02 pm
I’m so happy these have been a part of your first Whole30, that’s wonderful! I am rooting for you both!
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Tammyon June 21, 2020 at 8:51 pm
I made these fries for Father’s day and they were a hit! The best homemade fries ever. I made them in the oven. I will definitely be making them again. Homemade fries will be back on the menu at our houses. Dad, kids and mom approved!Reply
Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon June 22, 2020 at 9:10 pm
Hooray!! I agree – these convinced us how good homemade fries could be again. So thrilled these were a slam dunk for your family!
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Kellion June 17, 2020 at 8:32 am
Oh My Word! These fries were amazing! I made them in the air fryer. Thank you for the delicious recipe – it will definitely become a staple whether I’m on whole 30 or not!
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Autumn.michaelis@gmail.comon June 17, 2020 at 10:57 pm
Thank you! So thrilled you loved these and they will be a regular!
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Carissaon February 28, 2021 at 3:36 pm
I have used this recipes for all style of potato and sweet potato! Delicious. I sometime won’t put on the garlic salt because my sister is very picky with her salt (she will only eat very pure salt).Reply
