Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are a perfect blend of crispy and fluffy. Ideal for snacking, serving at parties, or as a side dish, these wedges are seasoned to perfection with a zesty mix of spices. Not only do they satisfy cravings, but they also provide versatility to complement various meals. The standout feature is their golden-brown exterior combined with a soft interior, making them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: These potato wedges bake up beautifully crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.
• Flavor Explosion: A zesty blend of garlic, spices, and Parmesan cheese creates an unforgettable taste that elevates simple potatoes.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, anyone can master this recipe.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for burgers, sandwiches, or even enjoyed alone with your favorite dipping sauce.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these baked potato wedges will be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of the potato wedges.
• Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.

Ingredients

These Baked Potato Wedges are seasoned with zesty blend of spices and baked until gloriously crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy inside!

• 5 large russet potatoes (washed and dried)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro

How to Make Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. After washing and drying the potatoes, slice one potato in half lengthwise.
2. Then slice each half into four equally sized wedges. Repeat this process for all potatoes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line several baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 3: Mix Potatoes

1. Add the potato wedges to a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour in vegetable oil and minced garlic; stir to combine well.
3. Add grated Parmesan cheese, cornstarch, black pepper, kosher salt, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and minced cilantro; stir again until evenly coated. I find the best way to really mix the seasonings into the potatoes is to use your hands.

Step 4: Bake

1. Spread the potato wedges evenly onto prepared baking sheets. Ensure space between each wedge for hot air circulation.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
3. Keep the baking sheets in the oven, then change the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue baking for another 40 minutes or until they are as crispy and golden brown as you’d like.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce! Enjoy these delicious seasoned baked potato wedges as a delightful snack or side dish!

How to Serve Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Seasoned baked potato wedges are a delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve them, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: This creamy sauce complements the garlic in the wedges beautifully.
• Spicy Ketchup: Add a kick to your meal with ketchup mixed with hot sauce.
• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice for dipping, ranch adds a cool and creamy touch.

As a Snack

• Topped with Cheese: Melt cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy twist.
• Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon for an indulgent snack option.
• Herbed Yogurt Dip: Serve with a yogurt dip flavored with fresh herbs for a refreshing snack.

Alongside Main Courses

• With Grilled Chicken: Pair potato wedges with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
• Accompanying Burgers: These wedges make an excellent side for juicy burgers.
• Served with Fish Tacos: The crispy texture of the wedges balances nicely with fish tacos.

How to Perfect Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Making perfect seasoned baked potato wedges is simple when you follow a few key tips. These will help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for their starchy content, which results in crispier wedges.
• Cut Evenly: Ensure all wedges are the same size for uniform cooking and crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave space between each wedge on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation, promoting even browning.
• Use High Heat Initially: Start baking at a higher temperature to create that crispy outer layer before lowering it for thorough cooking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to personalize your seasoning blend.

Best Side Dishes for Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Seasoned baked potato wedges pair well with various dishes. Here’s a list of fantastic options to complement your meal.

1. Grilled Steak: Juicy steak is always a hit; its rich flavor pairs well with crispy wedges.
2. BBQ Ribs: The smoky sweetness of BBQ ribs makes an excellent match with savory potato wedges.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides freshness that balances the richness of the potatoes.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers bring nutrition and flavor, making them a vibrant side option.
5. Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The tenderness of pulled pork offers a nice contrast to crunchy potato wedges.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry adds health benefits and complements the hearty potatoes wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the potato wedges can lead to less crispy results. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking without preheating can affect texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many wedges close together traps steam, making them soggy. Leave space between each wedge for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring the Size of Wedges: Cutting potatoes into uneven sizes can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform wedges for consistent doneness.
• Using Low-Quality Oil: Low-quality oils can burn or leave a strange flavor. Choose a good vegetable oil for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan on medium heat with a bit of oil for 5-7 minutes until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use sweet potatoes or Yukon golds as alternatives. Each will offer a different flavor profile.

What seasonings work well with Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges?

Feel free to experiment with spices like garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even cheese blends for added flavor.

How do I make my Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, soak the wedges in water before baking and ensure they are dry before seasoning.

Can I prepare these wedges ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cut and season them ahead of time; just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize the spices and serve them with various dipping sauces, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether as a side dish or a snack, giving this recipe a try will surely satisfy your cravings!