Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into perfectly cooked Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges. With a golden, crunchy crust that crackles under your teeth and a rich, garlicky, cheesy flavor that keeps you coming back for more, these wedges elevate the humble potato to a snack or side that feels downright special. Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer, a family-friendly side, or a comforting snack, this recipe delivers crispy, flavorful results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Delight: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect Crispness: Achieve a golden, crunchy exterior with a tender, fluffy inside every time you bake these wedges.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates an irresistible, savory taste.
• Versatile Snack: Great for casual meals, gatherings, or as a side dish that complements many mains.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak based on your favorite herbs, spice levels, or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, quality ingredients are the backbone of Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges. Each brings a distinct role, whether it’s building flavor, ensuring crisp texture, or adding visual appeal.

• Potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russet for the crispiest wedges with a soft interior.
• Olive Oil: Helps the wedges brown beautifully and keeps the garlic and Parmesan sticking well.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced or finely grated, garlic delivers that unmistakable savory punch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, nutty note and contributes to the crisp crust.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and dried herbs like oregano or parsley enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Optional Add-ins: A pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes can add a mild kick for those who like some heat.

Variations for Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Feel free to make this recipe your own. It’s wonderfully adaptable, whether you want to swap flavors, accommodate dietary needs, or simply experiment with new tastes.

• Herb Mix Twist: Replace dried herbs with fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for a vibrant herbaceous flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you want a sharper cheese profile.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a fiery spin on your potato wedges.
• Vegan Option: Omit Parmesan and sprinkle nutritional yeast for similar cheesy notes.
• Zesty Citrus: Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest post-baking for a refreshing zing.

How to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Step 1: Prepare and Cut the Potatoes

Start by washing and scrubbing your potatoes well. Leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Cut each potato into even wedge shapes, about 8 per medium potato, to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Soak the Wedges

Place the cut wedges in cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which is key to achieving crisp wedges instead of soggy ones.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly

Drain and pat the wedges completely dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing moisture is crucial for getting that crispy exterior.

Step 4: Mix the Coating

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Stir to create a flavorful coating that will cling to every wedge.

Step 5: Toss and Arrange

Add the dried potato wedges to the bowl and toss them thoroughly until each piece is well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a lined baking sheet to promote even cooking and browning.

Step 6: Bake to Crisp Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch closely as the wedges turn golden brown and develop a crunchy crust.

Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and serve immediately for the best crispness. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and fresh herbs on top just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

• Even Cutting: Cut wedges into similar sizes to ensure uniform baking.
• Soak to Crisp: Don’t skip soaking—the starch removal step is essential for fabulous crunch.
• Dry Well: Water is the enemy of crispiness, so make sure your wedges are very dry before adding oil and seasonings.
• High Heat Baking: Baking at a high temperature encourages browning and crisp texture.
• Use a Wire Rack: Placing wedges on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows air circulation on all sides for extra crispiness.
• Flip Midway: Turning wedges halfway improves even cooking and prevents burning on one side.

How to Serve Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving for a burst of color and freshness that complements the garlicky richness.

Side Dishes

These wedges pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or a vibrant green salad, making any meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the wedges in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for casual gatherings, or plate them alongside a dipping trio featuring garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, and creamy ranch for a fun party appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain some crispness, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked, coated wedges on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftover wedges in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness instead of using a microwave which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and work great with garlic and Parmesan; just keep an eye on cooking time as they may soften faster.

What’s the best potato type for crispy wedges?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which helps achieve a light and crispy texture.

Can I make these wedges gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free herbs and spices, and verify your Parmesan does not contain additives with gluten.

Is it possible to bake these without oil for a healthier option?

While oil is important for crispness and flavor, you can reduce the amount or use cooking spray, but expect slightly less crunchy wedges.

How do I keep the wedges crispy when serving to a crowd?

Bake them in batches and keep warm in a low oven on a wire rack to avoid steaming; serve promptly for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of texture and flavor that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. From the golden crust to the cheesy garlic punch, it’s a recipe you’ll want to have on hand for weeknights, gatherings, and whenever you need a comforting, crunchy treat. Give it a try and watch how quickly these wedges become your new favorite!

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