Tools Needed
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Servings and Cooking Time
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 20-30 minutes soaking time)
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Potato Wedges:
- 4 large russet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Wedges
Cut the potatoes into wedges, aiming for about 8 wedges per potato. For extra crispiness, soak the potato wedges in cold water for 20-30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier baked potatoes. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the potato wedges in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flavorful seasoning.
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to place them skin-side down for the best texture and even cooking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the potato wedges for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure an even crispness. The wedges should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the hot potato wedges with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or garlic aioli.
Recommendations for Success
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for this recipe as they have a high starch content, which helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Soak the Potatoes: Don’t skip the soaking step—it makes a big difference in achieving crispiness.
- Even Coating: Make sure all the potato wedges are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
- Bake in a Single Layer: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this allows the wedges to crisp up properly.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and adheres better to the potatoes than pre-packaged cheese.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these potato wedges hot as a side dish with grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches.
- Pair them with a dipping sauce such as ketchup, garlic aioli, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness. You can also use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Freezing: While these wedges can be frozen, their texture may not be as crispy when reheated. If freezing, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
FAQ
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly different flavor profile. However, they tend to be softer, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
2. How do I make these wedges extra crispy?
Soaking the potatoes, patting them dry, and ensuring they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet are key steps. You can also broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking for an extra crunch.
3. Can I make these potato wedges ahead of time?
Yes, you can cut and soak the potatoes in water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, drain, pat dry, season, and bake as directed.
4. What other seasonings can I use?
You can customize the seasoning to your taste! Try adding cayenne pepper for heat, rosemary for an earthy touch, or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
5. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry the wedges at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.
Conclusion
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are a delicious and easy-to-make alternative to traditional French fries. With their crispy texture, cheesy garlic seasoning, and golden perfection, they make the ultimate side dish or snack for any occasion. Whether served at a family dinner, game night, or weekend gathering, these wedges are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them today and enjoy a flavorful twist on classic potato wedges!
