Introduction
Can a side dish really be the star of your dinner table? If you’ve never tried Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges, the answer is a resounding yes. These crispy, golden wedges are seasoned to perfection with garlic, herbs, and a generous dusting of Parmesan—baked, not fried—for a healthier twist that doesn’t skimp on crunch or flavor.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or party platters, these wedges are a no-fuss crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Dipping Ideas:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy aioli
- Ketchup
- Garlic yogurt sauce
Substitutions:
- Use sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor and more fiber.
- Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Add chili powder or cayenne for spicy wedges.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
⏱️ That’s 25% less than deep-fried wedges with zero oil splatter cleanup!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep and preheat
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Slice and soak
Cut potatoes into uniform wedges. Soak in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove starch for extra crispiness. Pat dry thoroughly.
Step 3: Season
In a bowl, toss potato wedges with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake
Arrange wedges skin-side down on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Add Parmesan
Sprinkle Parmesan over the wedges during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts and crisps up. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or turnips.
- Use avocado oil for a healthier fat option.
- Air-fry at 400°F for 18–20 minutes for even fewer calories.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches.
- Serve as a party snack with a variety of dipping sauces.
- Top with sour cream and green onions for a loaded version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the soak: This leads to limp wedges. Always soak and dry thoroughly.
- Crowding the pan: Give wedges space to crisp up. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Adding cheese too early: It can burn. Add in the last few minutes of baking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Bake at 375°F or air-fry to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: Not recommended—texture degrades after freezing.
Conclusion
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with garlicky, cheesy flavor—these Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are what side-dish dreams are made of. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re bound to become a household favorite.
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FAQs
Do I have to soak the potatoes?
Yes! Soaking removes excess starch and guarantees crispy results.
Can I use red or gold potatoes?
Yes, but russets give the fluffiest interior and crispest exterior.
Can I make them in the air fryer?
Absolutely—400°F for 18–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
What if I don’t have Parmesan?
Try shredded mozzarella, pecorino, or nutritional yeast for a similar effect.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes—cut and soak the wedges earlier in the day, then bake fresh when ready.
