Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: The Ultimate Crispy Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Prepare to meet your new favorite side dish! Forget boring fries; these crispy, flavorful wedges are about to revolutionize your potato game. Imagine biting into a perfectly roasted potato, its skin golden and crisp, the inside fluffy and tender, all coated in a savory blend of garlic and Parmesan. Sounds divine, right?

While the exact origins of potato wedges are debated, their popularity exploded in the latter half of the 20th century, becoming a staple in pubs and restaurants worldwide. The beauty of the wedge lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a blank canvas for flavor, and the combination of garlic and Parmesan is a timeless classic that elevates the humble potato to gourmet status.

People adore these Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges for so many reasons. The crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the soft interior melts in your mouth. The garlic adds a pungent, savory note, perfectly balanced by the salty, nutty Parmesan cheese. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Plus, who can resist the allure of perfectly roasted potatoes? Get ready to experience potato perfection!

Ingredients:

• 3 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Potato Wedges:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes will cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the potatoes. Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin adds texture and nutrients. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy wedges.
3. Cut the potatoes into wedges. Place each potato on a cutting board and carefully cut it lengthwise in half. Then, cut each half lengthwise into wedges, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Aim for uniform size so they cook at the same rate.
4. Place the potato wedges in a large bowl. This will give you ample space to toss them with the seasonings.

Seasoning the Potato Wedges:

1. Add olive oil to the potatoes. Drizzle the olive oil over the potato wedges in the bowl. The olive oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes browning in the oven.
2. Add the minced garlic. Distribute the minced garlic evenly over the potatoes. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Use a good quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
4. Add the dried Italian seasoning. This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flavor to the wedges.
5. Add the garlic powder and onion powder. These powders enhance the garlic flavor and add a subtle sweetness.
6. Add the red pepper flakes (optional). If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your preference.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust as needed. Remember, potatoes need a good amount of salt to bring out their flavor.
8. Toss everything together. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss the potato wedges until they are evenly coated with the olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Make sure every wedge is well seasoned.

Baking the Potato Wedges:

1. Prepare a baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup easier. You can also use a silicone baking mat.
2. Arrange the potato wedges on the baking sheet. Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
3. Bake the potato wedges. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
4. Flip the potato wedges halfway through baking. After about 15 minutes, carefully flip the potato wedges with a spatula to ensure even browning on both sides.
5. Check for doneness. The potato wedges are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and have a crispy exterior.
6. Broil for extra crispiness (optional). For extra crispy wedges, broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching them closely to prevent burning.

Serving the Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges:

1. Remove the potato wedges from the oven. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the potato wedges cool slightly on the baking sheet.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the potato wedges for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
3. Serve immediately. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges immediately while they are still hot and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges:

• Choose the right potatoes. Russet potatoes are the best choice for wedges because they are starchy and bake up fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in soggy wedges. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
• Pat the potatoes dry. Before seasoning, pat the potato wedges dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up in the oven.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a better flavor and melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t be afraid to season generously. Potatoes need a good amount of salt and other seasonings to bring out their flavor.
• Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to your preference.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are delicious on their own, but they are also great with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, ketchup, or aioli.
• For extra crispy wedges, try soaking them in cold water. After cutting the potatoes into wedges, soak them in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and promotes crispiness. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning.
• Consider adding other seasonings. Experiment with other seasonings like smoked paprika, chili powder, or oregano.
• Make them ahead of time. You can cut and season the potato wedges ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Variations:

• Spicy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture.
• Herb Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Add other fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mixture.
• Loaded Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Top the baked potato wedges with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
• Sweet Potato Wedges: Substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious option. Adjust baking time as needed.
• Vegan Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges: Use vegan Parmesan cheese and olive oil instead of butter.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the potato wedges in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 250-300
• Fat: 12-15g
• Saturated Fat: 4-5g
• Cholesterol: 10-15mg
• Sodium: 300-400mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 2-3g
• Protein: 5-6g

Enjoy your delicious homemade Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are truly a game-changer. From the crispy exterior to the fluffy interior, and that irresistible garlic parmesan flavor bomb, this recipe is destined to become a new family favorite. I know, I know, I might be a little biased, but trust me on this one – you absolutely *need* to try these.

Why are they a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, they’re surprisingly easy to make. We’re talking minimal prep time and ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Need a quick and satisfying side dish for your weeknight dinner? These wedges are your answer. Hosting a game day party and looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? Look no further! They’re also a fantastic alternative to traditional fries, offering a healthier and more flavorful option. Seriously, what’s not to love?

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a classic pairing, serve these Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges alongside a juicy burger or grilled chicken. They’re also amazing dipped in ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.

Want to take things to the next level? Consider these variations:

* Spicy Wedges: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a fiery twist.
* Herbaceous Wedges: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a more complex flavor profile.
* Cheesy Wedges: Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of baking for an extra cheesy indulgence.
* Loaded Wedges: Top the baked wedges with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chives for a truly decadent treat.
* Vegan Wedges: Substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based butter alternative.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination.

I’m so confident that you’ll love these Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges that I’m practically begging you to try them. Seriously, clear your schedule, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience potato wedge perfection.

Once you’ve made them (and devoured them, let’s be honest), I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes in the future. So go ahead, give these wedges a try, and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see your culinary creations!

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