Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about crispy, golden potato wedges that are bursting with flavor. Our family has always been a fan of potatoes in all forms, but these Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges quickly became a go-to favorite. The crispy exterior, enhanced with a generous sprinkle of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, gives way to a soft, tender interior that is simply irresistible. Whether served as a side dish for a hearty meal or as an appetizer to accompany your favorite dipping sauce, these potato wedges hit the mark every time. What’s even better is that they are baked, making them a lighter and healthier alternative to fried potatoes, without sacrificing any of the flavor or crunch. My kids, who are notoriously picky about their vegetables, devour them with gusto, and I love knowing they’re getting a wholesome snack. If you’re craving something crispy, savory, and easy to make, this recipe is sure to be a hit in your home too!

Ingredients

For these crispy and flavorful Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3-4 large russet potatoes, sliced into wedges
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
• Optional: Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving crispy, golden potato wedges that are tender on the inside. Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent the wedges from sticking.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. Slice each potato into wedges by cutting the potato in half lengthwise, then cutting each half into 3-4 wedges, depending on the size of the potato.

3. Season the Potatoes

Place the potato wedges into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and toss them to coat each wedge evenly. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures that the wedges bake evenly.

In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the potato wedges and toss again until all the wedges are coated.

4. Add the Parmesan

Once the potatoes are evenly seasoned, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss the wedges one more time to coat them in the cheese. The Parmesan will melt and form a golden crust as they bake, adding both flavor and texture.

5. Bake the Potatoes

Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet with the skin sides down. This ensures that the skin crisps up nicely while the insides remain tender.

Bake the wedges in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fork-tender. Depending on the size of your potato wedges, you may need to adjust the baking time. Halfway through baking, flip the wedges to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the wedges are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, for an extra indulgent treat.

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Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Please note that these values can vary depending on the size of the potatoes used and the amount of olive oil or Parmesan cheese added.

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

This recipe is quick and easy, with minimal preparation time and just under 30 minutes in the oven. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re short on time but craving something flavorful!

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How to Serve

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Pair these potato wedges with a main dish like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a veggie burger for a well-rounded meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve these crispy potato wedges as an appetizer at your next gathering. They’re perfect for dipping and sharing!
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with classic dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or ketchup. You can also try a spicy sriracha mayo or a creamy garlic aioli for a little extra kick.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing with chopped parsley or cilantro.

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Additional Tips

1. Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the potato wedges into uniform sizes so they bake evenly. Try to keep each wedge roughly the same thickness to avoid some being overcooked while others are undercooked.
2. Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about the wedges sticking to the baking sheet, use parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfectly crispy potatoes.
3. Flip Halfway Through: For the crispiest results, flip the potato wedges halfway through baking to ensure both sides are golden and crispy.
4. Add Extra Cheese: If you love cheesy potatoes, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese over the wedges during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.
5. Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper if you want a bit of spice, or try adding freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor.

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Recipe Variations

While the classic Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are delicious on their own, here are a few variations to mix things up:

• Spicy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle a little sriracha sauce on top after baking.
• Cheesy Garlic Potato Wedges: For a richer, more indulgent dish, sprinkle a blend of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan during the last few minutes of baking.
• Herb-Infused Wedges: Experiment with other herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fresh twist on the classic Italian seasoning.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Wedges: Add a little lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
• Bacon Parmesan Potato Wedges: Top the potato wedges with crumbled bacon before serving for an extra savory touch.

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Serving Suggestions

• Grilled Meats: These wedges pair wonderfully with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or lamb. The crispy potatoes make the perfect side to a juicy piece of meat.
• Salads: Serve the wedges alongside a refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a complete meal. A crisp Caesar salad is another excellent pairing.
• Sandwiches: These wedges complement sandwiches and wraps. Try them with a chicken sandwich or pulled pork for a satisfying combo.
• Veggie Dips: For a lighter snack, serve the wedges with hummus or a guacamole dip instead of the heavier dressings.

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Freezing and Storage

Storage:
If you have leftovers, store the baked potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to bring back their crispy texture.

Freezing:
To freeze the wedges, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the wedges to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
   Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor, but russet potatoes are best for crispy wedges.
2. How can I make these wedges spicier?
   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
3. Can I make these wedges ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the wedges and season them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. They may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
4. How do I make sure the potato wedges get crispy?
   Make sure to arrange the wedges in a single layer and flip them halfway through the baking time. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
5. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
   While fresh Parmesan is ideal for the best flavor, pre-shredded Parmesan will work if that’s what you have on hand.
6. Can I bake these potato wedges at a higher temperature?
   You can increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for a slightly quicker bake, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
   No, leaving the skins on the potatoes adds extra texture and nutrients. If you prefer, you can peel them before slicing.
8. Can I freeze these potato wedges?
   Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing, and reheat them in the oven for best results.
9. How long do the potato wedges stay crispy after baking?
   These wedges are best eaten fresh. However, if stored, you can reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore some of the crispiness.
10. What can I serve these potato wedges with?
    They go well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a snack with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or blue cheese.

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Conclusion

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and cheesy, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether served as a side dish, an appetizer, or a snack, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this recipe is a quick and easy way to elevate your potato game.

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