When I think of comfort food that’s simple yet packed with flavor, these Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges instantly come to mind. They’re crispy, golden, and infused with the irresistible flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. Best of all? They’re so easy to make that even on the busiest weeknights, you can whip these up and have a satisfying side dish or snack ready in no time. Let me walk you through how to make these incredible wedges step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about turning a humble potato into something as delicious as these wedges. They’re perfect for a family dinner, a game day treat, or even as a midnight snack. Plus, the combination of garlic and Parmesan is a classic that never disappoints. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection!
Let’s Get Started: Preheat and Prep
The first step is getting your oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). You’ll want to lightly grease a large baking sheet—this helps prevent sticking and ensures that every wedge crisps up beautifully. I like to use a little olive oil or even parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Slice and Coat the Potatoes
Here’s where the magic begins! Grab 3 to 4 large russet potatoes. These are my go-to because they bake up tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Slice each potato into hearty wedges. The key is to keep the wedges roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Once sliced, toss the wedges into a large mixing bowl and drizzle with 4 tablespoons of olive oil. This step is essential—it’s what gives the wedges that lovely, golden crispiness. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix until each wedge is evenly coated.
Seasoning Makes All the Difference
Now, let’s add the flavor. In a small bowl, combine:
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
Mix it well, and then sprinkle the seasoning over the wedges. Give everything another good toss to ensure every potato slice gets a flavorful coating.
The Parmesan Upgrade
No dish with “Parmesan” in the name is complete without a generous helping of this cheesy goodness. Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese over the wedges and toss gently. The cheese will stick to the olive oil-coated potatoes, creating those little pockets of crispy, cheesy perfection as they bake.
Arrange and Bake
The final step before popping these beauties into the oven is arranging them on your prepared baking sheet. Lay the wedges in a single layer, making sure the skin sides are facing down. This little trick helps them get that golden, crispy edge that’s oh-so-satisfying.
Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 25–35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re fork-tender and golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point? Absolutely heavenly.
Crispy Perfection: Serving Up Your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Now that your kitchen smells like a cozy Italian bistro and your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are fresh out of the oven, it’s time to take them to the next level. These wedges are a snack-time superstar, but with a few extra touches, they can shine even brighter. Let’s dive into how to serve them, some creative variations, and the best dips to pair with these irresistible wedges.
The Final Touches: Garnish Like a Pro
Once you’ve taken your wedges out of the oven, don’t skip this step—it’s the garnish that makes them look (and taste) restaurant-worthy. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Not a parsley fan? Fresh cilantro works beautifully, too.
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese while the wedges are still hot adds even more cheesy goodness.
Dipping Dreams: Perfect Pairings
What’s a good potato wedge without the perfect dip? While these wedges are packed with flavor on their own, a dip can elevate them to snack nirvana. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Classic Ranch Dressing: The cool creaminess of ranch complements the savory garlic-Parmesan combo perfectly.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: If you’re into bold flavors, blue cheese adds a tangy kick.
- Marinara Sauce: Feeling Italian? A side of warm marinara is like a match made in heaven.
- Spicy Aioli: Mix a little mayo with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a creamy, spicy dip.
Creative Variations: Make It Your Own
What’s amazing about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can tweak the flavors to suit your mood or the occasion. Here are some fun ideas to try:
- Add Heat: Sprinkle some paprika, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb Explosion: Swap the Italian seasoning for fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for a fragrant twist.
- Cheesy Overload: Use a blend of Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. The mozzarella will melt into gooey perfection while the Parmesan crisps up.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing tang.
- Vegan Option: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast instead. It has a cheesy flavor and is 100% plant-based.
Tips for the Perfect Wedges Every Time
While this recipe is straightforward, a few small tweaks can make a big difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some pro tips:
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure the wedges are laid out in a single layer with space between them. Overcrowding traps steam and can make your wedges soggy.
- Flip for Extra Crispiness: About halfway through baking, flip the wedges to ensure both sides get evenly crispy.
- Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about sticking, parchment paper is your best friend. Plus, it makes cleanup a breeze.
- Go Big on the Parmesan: For an even cheesier crust, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Pairing Ideas for a Full Meal
These wedges are amazing as a standalone snack or appetizer, but they also make a fantastic side dish. Pair them with these mains for a complete meal:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak: The savory, crispy potatoes balance perfectly with juicy, tender meats.
- Burgers or Sandwiches: Swap out your usual fries for these wedges for a gourmet twist.
- Vegetarian Delight: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad or a bowl of hearty soup for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Your Questions Answered: FAQs About Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Before we wrap up, let’s address some common questions about making these delicious wedges. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned potato enthusiast, these tips will help ensure your wedges turn out perfectly every time.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative. They have a creamier texture and hold their shape well. Sweet potatoes also work if you’re looking for a slightly sweeter and healthier option.
2. How do I make the wedges crispier?
For extra crispiness, soak the sliced potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before coating them in olive oil and seasonings. This removes excess starch, helping them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Also, ensure they are laid out in a single layer with space between each wedge on the baking sheet.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice and season the wedges ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven as directed.
4. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
No Parmesan? No problem! You can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even grated cheddar as a substitute. Each adds its own unique twist to the flavor.
5. Can I air fry these wedges instead of baking?
Absolutely! To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the wedges for about 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They’ll come out just as crispy and delicious, with less cooking time.
6. Are these wedges gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you’re using gluten-free seasonings and cheese, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
7. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, or pop them into the air fryer for 5 minutes. They’ll crisp back up and taste just as amazing as when freshly baked.
Conclusion: Crispy, Cheesy, and Completely Irresistible
And there you have it—your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes! These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
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Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
These golden, crispy potato wedges are packed with garlic and Parmesan flavor and baked to perfection. They’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a snack for game night. Serve them with your favorite dips for an extra burst of deliciousness.
Ingredients
- Potatoes:
3–4 large russet potatoes, cut into hearty wedges. - Olive Oil:
4 tablespoons, for that perfect crispiness. - Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons of salt, to enhance the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, for a kick of garlic.
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, bringing those beloved Italian vibes.
- Cheese:
½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, because cheese makes everything better. - Optional Garnish & Dip:
- Fresh parsley (or cilantro) for a pop of color.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Slice and Coat:
Slice the russet potatoes into wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until all wedges are evenly coated.
3️⃣ Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
4️⃣ Add Parmesan and Seasoning:
Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the potato wedges and toss again. Next, sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the top and give it one final toss for an even coating.
5️⃣ Arrange for Baking:
Lay the wedges on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with the skin sides down. This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
6️⃣ Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–35 minutes, or until the wedges are fork-tender and golden brown.
7️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the wedges for 2–3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
- Feel free to swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- These wedges pair wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or as a standalone snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
