These crispy baked potato wedges are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The savory seasoning enhances the flavor of the potatoes, creating a comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals.
What makes these wedges so appealing is their versatility and ease of preparation. You can enjoy them as a simple snack or alongside a main dish. Their golden, crispy exterior makes them irresistibly delicious, while the tender interior offers a perfect contrast. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 large potatoes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Wash and scrub the potatoes, then cut them into wedges.
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Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
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Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary to the bowl. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated.
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Arrange the potato wedges on a baking sheet in a single layer.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Baked Potato Wedges Over Fried Ones?
The primary advantage of baked potato wedges over fried ones is the health factor. Baking uses far less oil, reducing the amount of fat in the final dish. This method also retains more of the potato’s natural flavors and nutrients, making it a much lighter yet equally satisfying option. Additionally, baked wedges are much easier to prepare than deep-fried wedges, requiring fewer ingredients and tools. All you need is a baking sheet, your favorite seasoning, and an oven.
Another major benefit of baking is the texture. When you bake potato wedges, the natural starch in the potatoes creates a crisp, golden outer layer, while the inside remains soft and fluffy. The result is a perfect contrast that fried versions often fail to replicate. Baked potato wedges allow you to enjoy that crunch without the greasy aftermath that often comes with frying.
The Key to the Perfect Crispy Baked Potato Wedges
Achieving crispy baked potato wedges requires the right balance of cooking time, temperature, and seasoning. To get the perfect crispy texture, it’s essential to choose the right type of potato. Starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes are the best choice for crispy wedges. Their high starch content makes them ideal for baking, as they crisp up well in the oven. You’ll want to cut them into even wedges to ensure they cook uniformly and crisp up at the same rate.
Another important factor is the oil. While you may be tempted to skip the oil for a “healthier” version, a small amount is necessary to help the seasoning stick to the potatoes and ensure a golden-brown crust. Olive oil is a great choice because it adds flavor and healthy fats, but you can also experiment with avocado oil or any other oil of your preference. Don’t skip the oil, as it’s the secret to getting that crispy outer layer.
Seasoning Variations for Every Taste
One of the reasons potato wedges are so universally loved is their versatility when it comes to seasoning. You can make them as simple or as bold as you like. The classic combination of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper is a fan favorite, providing a flavorful yet mild taste. However, don’t be afraid to get creative.
For a Mediterranean twist, try adding dried oregano, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice. If you prefer something spicier, go for chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a dash of cumin. For an herby version, fresh rosemary or thyme is a great addition, along with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a touch of richness. The seasoning possibilities are endless, and it’s easy to cater the flavor profile to suit your preferences or match the main course you’re serving.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Potato Wedges
Crispy baked potato wedges are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They can be paired with a variety of dips and sauces, making them perfect for any meal or gathering. Classic choices include ketchup, ranch dressing, and aioli, but you can get even more creative. Try serving them with spicy sriracha mayo, tangy barbecue sauce, or a cool yogurt-based dip for an extra layer of flavor.
They also make an excellent side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats, balancing out heavier dishes with their crispy texture. If you’re serving a vegetarian meal, these baked wedges are a perfect addition to a salad or grain bowl. For a complete meal, you can even top them with a sprinkle of cheese, sour cream, and chives for a loaded potato wedge experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Crispy baked potato wedges are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner at home, preparing a dish for a potluck, or watching the big game with friends, they always make a great addition to the spread. Their simplicity and universal appeal make them a go-to dish that’s sure to satisfy any crowd.
Additionally, because they’re baked and not fried, these potato wedges are a healthier option for parties and gatherings where you might want to offer something tasty but still mindful of your guests’ health-conscious choices. They are also a great addition to meal prep for the week, as they hold up well in the fridge and can easily be reheated in the oven to retain their crispy texture.
Conclusion: Why You Should Add These to Your Recipe Arsenal
Crispy baked potato wedges are a true comfort food classic. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them as a side dish, snack, or main, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. The secret to the perfect wedge lies in the balance of the right ingredients, seasonings, and cooking techniques, ensuring that your wedges are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside.
What’s more, these potato wedges are a healthier alternative to deep-fried potatoes, offering all the crunch without the added fat. By experimenting with different seasoning blends, you can make them as mild or spicy as you like, making them adaptable to every taste preference. Their simplicity and wide appeal make them the perfect addition to any meal or social gathering, and their ability to be paired with various dips only enhances their popularity. If you haven’t yet tried crispy baked potato wedges, they’re a must-have recipe that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.
So, next time you’re craving a delicious snack or side dish, consider making these crispy baked potato wedges. With their golden exterior and tender, fluffy interior, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!