Preheat your oven to 425°F, ensuring the rack is positioned in the upper third. This step is crucial for achieving that crispiness we all love. While the oven is heating, prepare a large baking sheet by lightly coating it with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even roasting.
Next, take your parsnips and place them in a large bowl. Toss them with the olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure every strip is evenly coated; this will enhance their flavor and help them brown nicely.
Spread the seasoned parsnips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Giving them space is key to achieving that coveted crispiness, so avoid overcrowding.
Roast the parsnip fries in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. At this point, you’ll start to notice the lovely aroma filling your kitchen. After 15 minutes, carefully flip the fries over to ensure even cooking.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast the parsnips for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown and tender. The key is to find that perfect balance!
Once they’re looking delicious, sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over the parsnips and return them to the oven for an extra minute. This allows the cheese to melt, creating a savory topping that’s simply irresistible.
After the cheese has melted, let the fries rest for about 2 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to mingle. Toss the fries with remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
