If you are craving a snack or side that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside, then you have to try this Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges Recipe. These potato wedges are coated with a zesty blend of garlic, Parmesan, paprika, chili powder, and fresh cilantro, making every bite a flavorful celebration. Baking instead of frying means they stay lighter but still deliver maximum crunch, and they’re perfect for sharing with friends or family any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but packs a punch, relying on basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients that turn ordinary potatoes into a mouthwatering treat. Each component is key, bringing savoriness, heat, or fresh brightness to the dish.
- 5 large russet potatoes: These are perfect for baking, with their starchy texture yielding fluffy insides and crispy edges.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Essential for coating the wedges evenly to achieve that golden crisp.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory base to the seasoning mix.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty richness that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch: Helps create a wonderfully crispy exterior by absorbing moisture.
- 2 tsp black pepper: Offers a mild kick and warmth to balance the flavors.
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances every ingredient and seasons the potatoes perfectly.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle depth without overpowering the garlic.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings a smoky sweetness and lovely color.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Injects a hint of heat to keep things exciting.
- 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
After washing and drying your russet potatoes, slice each one in half lengthwise, then cut each half into four evenly sized wedges. This ensures every wedge cooks at the same rate and results in a consistent crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings with Potato Wedges
Place the potato wedges in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with vegetable oil and add minced garlic before tossing to coat the wedges evenly. Then sprinkle on the Parmesan, cornstarch, black pepper, kosher salt, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and freshly chopped cilantro. The best way to combine everything thoroughly is to use your hands, gently massaging the seasoning into every nook and cranny of the wedges. This step ensures every bite bursts with layered flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Potato Wedges
Lay out the seasoned wedges evenly across your prepared baking sheets, making sure they’re spaced apart so hot air can circulate freely—this is the secret to that coveted crispiness. For best results, place the potatoes skin side down with the pointed edge facing up. Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 40 minutes, or until golden brown and as crisp as you love them.
How to Serve Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a little extra cilantro on top just before serving to add a burst of brightness. A light dusting of coarse sea salt can also enhance the crispness and seasoning.
Side Dishes
These seasoned wedges are a perfect match for classic comfort fare like juicy burgers, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. They also pair wonderfully with a creamy dip like garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even a spicy ketchup blend for a flavorful contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these wedges in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for that casual eat-together vibe. For parties, arrange the wedges on a large platter with small bowls of dipping sauces so your guests can mix and match flavors. You could even sprinkle some grated Parmesan and chopped chives right before serving for a little wow factor!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days. To keep their crispiness, avoid sealing them while still warm or adding any sauces until just before serving.
Freezing
While you can freeze these wedges, it’s best to do so before baking. Season and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you want a quick snack, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring back their glorious crunch, reheat the wedges in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the wedges soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold up well during baking and crisp up nicely. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also work if you prefer a creamier texture. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
What’s the best way to get extra crispy potato wedges?
Soaking your potato wedges in cold water for 30-45 minutes before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier edges. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly before mixing with oil and seasonings.
Can I prepare the wedges ahead of time?
Yes! You can cut and season the wedges ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Bring them to room temperature before putting them in the oven for even cooking.
What dipping sauces go well with this Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges Recipe?
They’re incredibly versatile! Classic ketchup, garlic aioli, sour cream mixed with chives, spicy sriracha mayo, or ranch dressing are all fantastic companions to these wedges.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges Recipe enough. It’s a wonderful combination of straightforward ingredients and easy techniques that come together to deliver flavor and texture that everyone will love. Whether as a snack, side, or party dish, these wedges never fail to impress. So grab some russet potatoes, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake your way to crispy, savory potato perfection!
Print
Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 40 wedges (serves 8)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, flavored with a zesty blend of spices including garlic, paprika, chili powder, and Parmesan cheese, making them an irresistible side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 5 large russet potatoes, washed and dried
Seasoning Mixture
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: After washing and drying the potatoes, slice one potato in half lengthwise. Then slice each half into 4 equally sized wedges. Repeat this process with all potatoes to get about 40 wedges.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line several baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix Potatoes and Seasonings: Place all potato wedges into a large mixing bowl. Add vegetable oil and minced garlic, stirring to coat evenly. Then add grated Parmesan, cornstarch, black pepper, kosher salt, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and minced cilantro. Use your hands to thoroughly mix and ensure the seasoning blends well with the potato wedges.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Spread the seasoned potato wedges evenly onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each wedge for optimal air circulation. Place the potatoes skin side down with the pointed ends facing upward for best crispness.
- Bake at 400°F: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to start the cooking process and develop a golden crust.
- Reduce Temperature and Continue Baking: Without removing the baking sheets, lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 40 minutes, or until the wedges reach desired crispiness and a beautiful golden brown color.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or side dish.
Notes
- This recipe yields about 40 potato wedges, roughly serving 8 people.
- For extra crispy wedges, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30-45 minutes before seasoning to remove excess starch. Then dry thoroughly before proceeding.
- Using your hands to mix the seasoning ensures even coating of all wedges.
- Spacing wedges apart on baking sheets allows hot air to circulate, promoting crispiness.
- Placing wedges skin side down enhances crisp texture.
