Of course! Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are the ultimate side dish or snack—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with savory, cheesy flavor. They’re far healthier than deep-fried versions but just as addictive.
Here’s a foolproof recipe for achieving maximum crispiness.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
This recipe uses a few simple tricks to get a crispy exterior without frying.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
· 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 lbs / 1 kg)
· 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
· 4 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and thyme)
· ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for color and flavor)
· ½ teaspoon onion powder
· ½ teaspoon salt (plus more for seasoning after baking)
· ¼ teaspoon black pepper
· ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
· For serving: Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or sour cream for dipping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for crispiness.
- Cut Wedges: Scrub the potatoes clean (you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients). Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3-4 wedges, depending on the size of the potato.
- Soak (The Secret to Crispiness!): Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and cover with warm water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour). This draws out the excess starch, which is the key to a super crispy exterior. After soaking, drain and rinse them, then pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Season the Wedges
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the thoroughly dried potato wedges back into the large, dry bowl. Drizzle the oil and spice mixture over them.
- Toss the wedges until they are evenly and thoroughly coated.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Arrange: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper (for easy cleanup) or foil. Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching each other. This allows the hot air to circulate and crisp them up.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes on the middle rack.
- Flip & Continue: After 20 minutes, flip each wedge over. This ensures even browning on both sides.
- Bake Again: Return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the wedges are golden brown, crispy on the edges, and tender inside.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan & Serve
- Add Cheese: Remove the wedges from the oven. While they are still hot, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over them. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly.
- Garnish: Garnish with the fresh chopped parsley.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste a wedge and season with a little more salt if needed.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your crispy, flavorful wedges right away with your favorite dipping sauces.
Why This Recipe Works & Pro Tips
· The Soak is Non-Negotiable: Soaking the potatoes is the single most important step for removing surface starch, which prevents gummy, steamed potatoes and promotes a crispy crust.
· Dry Thoroughly: After soaking, drying the wedges is essential. Wet potatoes will steam instead of roast.
· Don’t Crowd the Pan: Giving the wedges space is critical. If they’re too close, they’ll steam each other. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
· Freshly Grate Your Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as well. A block of Parmigiano-Reggiano or a good quality Parmesan will taste far better.
· For Extra Crispiness: Place a metal baking sheet or roasting pan in the oven while it preheats. Carefully arrange the wedges on the hot pan. The instant sizzle gives a fantastic crispy start.
· Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the oil mixture for a spicy kick.
What to Serve With Them
· As a Side Dish: Perfect with burgers, grilled chicken, steak, or the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken from your previous questions.
· As a Snack or Appetizer: Great for game day or parties, served with a variety of dips.
· With Dipping Sauces: Classic choices include ranch, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, or marinara sauce.
Enjoy these incredibly delicious and easy-to-make potato wedges! They’re sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.