If there’s one dish that brings warmth, crunch, and cheesy comfort to your table, it’s Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges. This recipe transforms humble potatoes into golden, oven-roasted perfection bursting with savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a whisper of Italian herbs. Ideal as a side or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these wedges are a must-have for any gathering where delicious simplicity and bold flavors rule.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges comes from everyday ingredients, each playing a key role in flavor, texture, and color. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need—and why you can’t skip a thing!
- Russet potatoes: The starchy flesh crisps up perfectly on the outside while staying fluffy inside; wedges also mean maximum surface area for all the yummy seasonings.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures every spice clings to each potato, creating that irresistible crust.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for a punchy, aromatic foundation; garlic’s warmth is essential in this dish.
- Salt: Highlights and balances all the flavors, while drawing out the subtle earthiness of the potatoes.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that cuts through the cheese and enriches each bite.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a hint of smokiness and beautiful color, making the wedges look and taste gourmet.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together with an unmistakable Mediterranean flair.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Nutty, salty, and melty—this is where the “wow” factor happens for Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of freshness for contrast, color, and a touch of garden flavor.
- Extra Parmesan for garnish (optional): Because when it comes to cheese, more is always better!
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by giving those russet potatoes a good scrub, then cut each one into uniform wedges. This ensures even baking and maximizes those crispy edges we all crave. Want next-level crunch? Soak the wedges in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry thoroughly before seasoning.
Step 2: Toss with Flavor
In a large bowl, toss your potato wedges with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Every little bit should stick to the surface, promising bold flavor in every bite. Only after that, sprinkle in the Parmesan and gently toss again so the cheese hugs each wedge and won’t burn during baking.
Step 3: Arrange for Max Crispiness
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then arrange the wedges skin side down in a single layer. This gives the potatoes room to roast rather than steam and helps get that sought-after crispy bottom—no sad, soggy fries here!
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Slide your tray into a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Flip the wedges halfway through the 35-40 minute bake so all sides achieve beautiful golden edges. Watch as they develop a tempting aroma that makes waiting almost impossible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Hot out of the oven, shower your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness—these are the kind of wedges that disappear in seconds!
How to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley gives a finishing flourish to your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges. You can add a pinch of red chili flakes for gentle heat, or even drizzle a little garlic-infused oil for all-out garlic lovers. A side of ranch or marinara makes for a delightful dip, too!
Side Dishes
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges pair beautifully with grilled chicken, burgers, steak, or a juicy piece of salmon. For a lighter meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. Their robust flavor means they can stand up to bold mains without competing or getting lost.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the wedges upright in a mason jar or serving them in a parchment-lined basket for that bistro vibe. Layer them on a wooden board with toothpicks for a fun party platter, or create a “loaded” wedge bar with a toppings spread including chopped chives, bacon bits, or even a drizzle of truffle oil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, though you might find it hard to keep them around that long!
Freezing
For longer-term storage, freeze fully baked and cooled wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They keep their quality best for up to a month. This way, cheesy, garlicky goodness is always just minutes away, any night of the week.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges in a hot oven or toaster oven until warmed through and re-crisped—about 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C) should do the trick. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the wedges soft instead of crispy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While russets yield the crispiest texture, Yukon Golds also work well and produce a slightly creamier center. Just steer clear of waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes for this recipe since they don’t crisp up the same way.
How do I make these wedges vegan?
Just swap the Parmesan cheese for your favorite vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, so it’s an easy tweak that keeps all the big flavors in your Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
No worries! Regular paprika works fine, or you can try a dash of cayenne for heat or a tiny bit of chipotle powder for smoke. Each version brings its own delicious flair.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No need at all. Keeping the skin not only adds an earthy flavor and great texture, but it also helps the wedges keep their shape and adds extra nutrients. Plus it saves time—win-win!
Can I prep these ahead of time?
You sure can. Cut and soak your potato wedges hours in advance, then pat dry and store them in the fridge until ready to season and bake. This actually helps them become even crispier when roasted.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are truly a game changer—you’ll find yourself making them for quick weeknight sides or showing off at your next gathering. Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this recipe is bound to become a house favorite. Give it a try and see these irresistible golden wedges disappear before your eyes!
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Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are a flavorful and crispy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs makes these potato wedges irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes (cut into wedges)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Potato Wedges:
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss potato wedges: In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning until evenly coated.
- Add Parmesan: Add the grated Parmesan and toss again to coat.
- Bake: Arrange the wedges on the baking sheet, bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Finish: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak the potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. Pat them dry thoroughly before tossing with oil and spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
