If you’re craving a tasty snack, I’ve got just the thing: Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges. These crispy delights are easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll impress everyone at your next gathering or family dinner. Get ready to learn my best tips and tricks to achieve that perfect crunch, plus fun variations you can try. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
To make Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges, you need:
– 4 medium russet potatoes, thoroughly washed and cut into wedges
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 5 cloves of garlic, finely minced
These main ingredients form the base of your dish. Russet potatoes give a fluffy inside and a crispy outside. The olive oil helps the spices stick and adds flavor.
Seasoning and Toppings
For seasoning and toppings, gather:
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
– ½ teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
These seasonings bring out the best flavors. Smoked paprika adds a warm, deep note. The Italian blend gives a herbal touch. Parmesan cheese melts into a tasty crust on top of the wedges.
Optional Add-ins
If you want to get creative, consider these optional add-ins:
– Chili flakes for heat
– Different cheese types, like cheddar or mozzarella
– Fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme
These add-ins can give your wedges a unique twist. You can spice them up or make them even cheesier. Choose according to your taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Potatoes
First, pick medium russet potatoes. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut each potato into wedges. Aim for even sizes so they cook well. This helps them bake evenly and become crispy.
Mixing the Seasoning
Grab a large mixing bowl. Pour in three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add five cloves of minced garlic for that tasty flavor. Then, mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in half a teaspoon of sea salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Stir it all together until it blends well.
Baking the Wedges
Now, toss the potato wedges in the bowl with the seasoning. Make sure each wedge is coated fully. Lay the wedges on a lined baking sheet in a single layer. This space helps them get crispy. Bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip them halfway through to brown evenly. After the first bake, sprinkle half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts. Once done, let them cool briefly before serving. For a pop of color, add fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your crispy delight!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get your potato wedges crispy, start with dry potatoes. After washing, pat them dry with a towel. Use enough olive oil to coat each wedge well. Space them out on the baking sheet; this helps air circulate. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness. For extra crunch, broil them for a minute at the end.
Recommended Potatoes to Use
I love using russet potatoes for their texture. They have a high starch content, which makes them fluffy inside. Yukon golds are also great; they are creamy and add a nice flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes; they don’t crisp up well for this recipe.
How to Reheat Leftovers
To reheat your baked garlic Parmesan potato wedges, use the oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Spread the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are hot and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for a quick and crispy result.
Variations
Spicy Version with Chili Flakes
To add heat to your baked garlic parmesan potato wedges, sprinkle chili flakes on top. A half teaspoon of chili flakes can give your dish a nice kick. You can adjust the amount based on your taste. If you love spice, feel free to go wild! Mix the chili flakes with your olive oil and garlic for a consistent flavor. The heat will balance nicely with the creamy parmesan.
Cheese Variants (e.g., Cheddar, Mozzarella)
Cheese can change the flavor of your potato wedges. Cheddar brings a sharp taste, while mozzarella adds a stretchy texture. You can mix cheeses too. Try half a cup of each for a rich, gooey goodness. Just like with parmesan, add the cheese in the last few minutes of baking. This way, it melts perfectly over the hot wedges.
Vegan Adaptations
If you want a vegan version, swap out the parmesan for nutritional yeast. It has a cheesy flavor and is packed with nutrients. You can also use vegan cheese shreds if you prefer. Use the same amount as parmesan. The rest of the recipe stays the same, so you won’t miss out on the fun! These swaps make the dish lighter but still tasty.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Potato Wedges
To keep leftover potato wedges fresh, place them in an airtight container. Let them cool first. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This method helps retain taste and texture.
Freezing Tips for Meal Prep
If you want to freeze your potato wedges, follow these steps. First, let them cool completely after baking. Next, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place the sheet in the freezer for about an hour. After that, transfer the frozen wedges to a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Best Method for Reheating
To reheat your potato wedges, the oven is the best choice. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the wedges on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes until they are hot and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 5 to 8 minutes. Enjoy them as if they were freshly made!
FAQs
Can I make Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! An air fryer is a great option for making these wedges. It cooks them faster and keeps them crispy. To do this, cut the potatoes as usual. Toss them in the seasoning blend just like in the oven method. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, place the wedges in the basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method yields a crunchy outside and soft inside.
What dipping sauces pair well with potato wedges?
Dipping sauces make everything better! Here are some tasty options for your potato wedges:
– Ranch dressing for a creamy touch
– Ketchup for a classic flavor
– Garlic aioli for a rich taste
– Spicy sriracha mayo for a kick
– Barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor
Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Making this recipe gluten-free is easy! The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your seasonings, especially the Italian blend, are gluten-free. Check the labels on each product to be safe. You can also pair these wedges with gluten-free sauces for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, delicious potato wedges without worry!
This article covered all you need for tasty baked potato wedges. We discussed the main ingredients, seasonings, and optional add-ins for flavor. I explained simple steps from prepping to baking. You learned tips to make them crispy and how to store leftovers. There are fun variations to try, like spicy or cheesy versions. Always feel free to get creative! Now, you’re all set to enjoy delicious potato wedges your way. Happy cooking!
