Golden Crispy Delights (Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges)

Welcome to flavor town! These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are a deliciously crispy, outside soft, fluffy, inside treat that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly baked wedges, seasoned with a zesty blend of spices that envelop each bite in a warm hug of flavor! Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy family dinner or serving them at your next party, these wedges are bound to be the star of the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these delectable potato wedges!
– Big, Bold Flavors: A kick of garlic and a medley of spices ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
– Crispy Yet Fluffy: Enjoy that satisfying crunch on the outside while reveling in the soft, fluffy potato inside.
– Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these wedges are super versatile.
– Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you’ll have these baked beauties ready in no time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our star players! The ingredients for these Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges come together beautifully, with a standout flavor game-changer being the zesty garlic and nutty Parmesan cheese! Your kitchen is about to smell divine!

– 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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

One of the best things about these Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges is how easy it is to customize them to fit your cravings! Here are a few fun variations to try:
– Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornstarch to keep these wedges safe for everyone!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked bacon bits or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
– Make it Spicier: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a flavor twist.
– Colorful Additions: Mix in some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a pop of color and flavor!

How to Make Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Ready to transform those potatoes into golden perfection? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges!

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

After giving your russet potatoes a good wash and drying them off, slice one in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into 4 equally sized wedges. Repeat with all the potatoes until you have a beautiful array of wedges ready for seasoning!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to a sizzling 400°F and line several baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures our wedges bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 3: Mix the Potatoes

Place the potato wedges in a large mixing bowl and drizzle in the vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and give them a gentle stir to combine.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cheese

Now, for the magic! Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, cornstarch, black pepper, salt, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. Get your hands in there and mix it all together, ensuring every wedge is coated in that zesty blend of goodness.

Step 5: Bake the Wedges

Spread the potato wedges evenly onto your prepared baking sheets, ensuring they have a little space between them for optimal crispiness. Place them skin side down with the pointed end facing up for best results.

Step 6: First Bake

Slide those baking sheets into your preheated oven for the first bake. Let them cook for 15 minutes and your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of roasted potatoes.

Step 7: Adjust Temperature and Continue Baking

Without opening the oven, reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 40 minutes, or until your wedges are beautifully crispy and golden brown to your liking.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re out of the oven and smelling divine, serve these Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every crispy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

– Cut Evenly: Ensure your wedges are of equal size for uniform cooking and crispiness.
– Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leaving space between wedges allows for better air circulation and that irresistible crispiness!
– Double Bake: For extra crispy edges, you can bake them once, let them cool, and then bake again at a higher temperature.

How to Serve Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Garnishes:

Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or a dash of Parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra flair!

Side Dishes:

These wedges pair beautifully with grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or even homemade burgers. The perfect accompaniment to elevate any meal!

Creative Ways to Present:

Serve them in individual cups for a fun party snack or on a large platter with a variety of dipping sauces for a colorful appetizer spread!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

While these wedges are best fresh, you can freeze them before baking. Just lay them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

To reheat, place the wedges back in a hot oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes until they’re warmed through and crisp again!

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a delicious natural sweetness and different texture.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you add extra spice! The chili powder adds a mild kick, but feel free to adjust according to your taste.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free cornstarch and you’re all set!

Can I prepare these in advance?
You can cut and season the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a few hours before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are the perfect combination of crispy, fluffy, and packed with flavor. Whether for a snack, side dish, or party platter, they promise to delight everyone at the table. So grab those potatoes, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delicious adventure that’s easy to whip up. You’ve got this! Enjoy the crunch and the compliments that are sure to follow!