Baked garlic Parmesan potato wedges are a delicious and easy side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. These crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside potato wedges are coated with a flavorful blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked to perfection. This healthier alternative to fried potatoes delivers all the flavor and crunch with less oil and fewer calories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy and Flavorful: These wedges are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with garlic and Parmesan flavor.
- Healthier Alternative: Baking the potato wedges instead of frying makes them a healthier option.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
- Versatile: Serve these wedges as a snack, side dish, or even an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces.
Key Ingredients
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe as they get nice and crispy when baked.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic or garlic powder adds bold flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor to the potatoes.
- Olive Oil: Helps the potatoes crisp up while baking and adds richness.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the taste of the potatoes.
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash 3-4 large Russet potatoes thoroughly and cut them into wedges. Each potato should yield about 8-10 wedges depending on the size.
- Place the potato wedges in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, allowing the wedges to get crispy.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
- Drain and pat the potato wedges dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, toss the wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves (or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder), 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
- Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Bake the Potato Wedges
- Bake the potato wedges in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the wedges are done, sprinkle them with a little extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or aioli.
Tips for the Best Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
- Soak the Potatoes: Soaking the potato wedges in cold water helps remove excess starch, which allows them to crisp up better in the oven.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet so they cook evenly and get crispy.
- Flip the Wedges: Flipping the potato wedges halfway through baking ensures that all sides get evenly crispy.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated fresh Parmesan cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
- Serve Immediately: For the crispiest texture, serve the potato wedges right out of the oven while they’re still hot and crispy.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Parmesan Potato Wedges: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Potato Wedges: Top the wedges with extra cheese like mozzarella or cheddar during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy version.
- Herbed Garlic Potato Wedges: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for a more herbaceous flavor.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Swap out the Russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, you can easily substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and softer version of this dish. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes may bake a little faster, so check them for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
2. How do I store leftover potato wedges?
Store any leftover potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.
3. Can I freeze baked potato wedges?
Yes! Allow the potato wedges to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer when ready to serve.
4. What should I serve with these potato wedges?
These potato wedges make a great side dish for burgers, grilled chicken, steak, or as a snack or appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch, aioli, or ketchup
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