Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are a perfect side dish or snack, offering a delicious combination of crispy edges, tender centers, and bold flavors.
These wedges are made by coating thick-cut potatoes in olive oil, freshly minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a blend of herbs and spices.
They are then baked to golden perfection, resulting in a healthier yet equally flavorful alternative to deep-fried potatoes.
To start, russet or Yukon gold potatoes are preferred for their starchy texture, which ensures a crispy exterior. The potatoes are cut into uniform wedges to ensure even cooking.
After cutting, the wedges are soaked in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up in the oven.
Once soaked and patted dry, the wedges are tossed in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes cut into thick wedges
- 4 tablespoon olive oi for crisp perfection
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder for a bold, garlicky kick
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning for those classic herby vibes
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (plus ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Slice the russet potatoes into thick wedges. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until the wedges are evenly coated.
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This spice blend will elevate the flavor of your wedges.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan over the potato wedges and toss again to coat evenly. Then, add the spice mixture, making sure every wedge is covered with flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet with the skin sides down. This helps them cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Bake: Bake for 25-35 minutes or until the wedges are fork-tender and golden brown. Keep an eye out for that perfect crispy edge!
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the wedges for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Why You’ll Love Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
If you’re searching for a perfect side dish or snack that’s both comforting and delicious, Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are your answer. These golden, crispy potato wedges are coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan crust and baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just craving something hearty, these wedges check all the boxes. Here’s why they’re so irresistible:
1. Flavor Explosion
Garlic and Parmesan are a match made in culinary heaven. The sharp, nutty notes of Parmesan blend beautifully with the bold, aromatic garlic to create a mouthwatering combination. Every bite bursts with flavor thanks to the herb-infused seasoning that clings to the wedges. A hint of paprika or black pepper can also add a little kick, making these wedges anything but boring.
2. Healthier Alternative
Unlike traditional deep-fried fries, these potato wedges are baked instead of fried. Baking significantly reduces the oil content without sacrificing that crave-worthy crispiness. This makes them a healthier option for those looking to indulge in comfort food without the guilt. You can also use olive oil, which adds heart-healthy fats and a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
3. Incredible Texture
One of the best parts of these wedges is their texture. The outside is crispy, golden brown, and perfectly seasoned, while the inside remains soft, fluffy, and tender. This balance of textures makes each bite incredibly satisfying. The trick is slicing the potatoes uniformly and baking them at the right temperature for optimal crunchiness.
4. Customizable
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are endlessly customizable to suit different taste preferences. For added freshness, you can sprinkle fresh parsley, cilantro, or even thyme over the top. Craving something spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Prefer a richer flavor? A drizzle of melted butter or truffle oil can take these wedges to the next level. You can also experiment with dipping sauces, from classic ketchup to garlic aioli or ranch dressing.
5. Easy to Prepare
With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, these wedges are easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. All you need are potatoes, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and a few seasonings. Slice the potatoes, toss them in the seasoning mixture, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake until golden. No complicated techniques or equipment are required.
6. Perfect for Any Occasion
These potato wedges are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a game-day snack, a side dish for burgers or sandwiches, or even as a late-night comfort food. They’re crowd-pleasers for both kids and adults, and they pair well with a wide variety of meals. Plus, the aroma of garlic and Parmesan wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Tips, Tricks, and Serving Ideas
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are a delicious, crispy snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s a guide with tips, tricks, and serving ideas to ensure your wedges turn out flavorful and crispy every time.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
- Best Variety: Use starchy or all-purpose potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds. Russets yield a crispier outside with a fluffy inside, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture.
- Uniform Size: Cut the wedges as evenly as possible to ensure they bake at the same rate. Aim for 6-8 wedges per medium potato.
Prepping for Perfect Wedges
- Soak for Crispiness: Soak potato wedges in cold water for 30-60 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which helps the wedges become crispier when baked.
- Dry Thoroughly: Pat the wedges completely dry with a kitchen towel after soaking to prevent steaming in the oven.
- Season Properly: Toss the potatoes in olive oil to help the seasoning stick. For each 4-5 potatoes, use about 3 tablespoons of oil.
Flavor Tips
- Garlic: Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor. You can also roast garlic cloves for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged for better melting and flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme can add a pop of color and flavor. You can sprinkle these on after baking.
Baking Tips for Crispy Wedges
- Preheat the Oven: Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for the best crispiness.
- Use a Wire Rack: If you have one, bake the wedges on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the potatoes, ensuring even crisping.
- Flip Halfway: Turn the wedges halfway through baking for even browning.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the wedges in a single layer with space between each piece. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Serving Ideas
- Dipping Sauces: Pair with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, sour cream, or spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of freshness and color.
- Loaded Wedges: Turn them into loaded potato wedges by adding melted cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for about 10 minutes.
Final Trick: Broil for Extra Crisp
If you want ultra-crispy wedges, broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
With these tips and tricks, your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges will be irresistibly crispy, golden, and packed with flavor every time!
In summary, Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are loved for their bold flavor, crispy texture, and versatility. They offer a healthier take on comfort food while remaining incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, these wedges are bound to become a go-to favorite!
