Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are the perfect blend of crispy and fluffy, making them an ideal side dish for any meal. Seasoned with a zesty mix of spices, they bring a delightful crunch that pairs well with burgers, sandwiches, or even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these wedges are sure to impress with their vibrant flavor and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – Enjoy a crunch on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
• Flavorful Seasoning – A zesty blend of spices adds depth and excitement to each bite.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish – Pair these wedges with your favorite dipping sauces or serve alongside any main course.
• Healthier Option – Baking instead of frying means less oil and fewer calories without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your seasoned baked potato wedges, gather your tools and get ready for some tasty fun. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl – Allows ample space to mix the potato wedges with seasoning without making a mess.
• Baking sheets – Essential for even cooking; they provide space for air circulation around each wedge.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and ensures easy clean-up after baking.

Ingredients

These Baked Potato Wedges are seasoned with zesty blend of spices and baked until gloriously crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy inside!

For the Potatoes

• 5 large russet potatoes (washed and dried)

For the Seasoning

• 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

How to Make Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. After washing and drying the potatoes, slice one potato in half lengthwise.
2. Then slice each half into 4 equally sized wedges.
3. Repeat with all potatoes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F and line several baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 3: Mix Potatoes

1. Add potato wedges to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add vegetable oil and garlic. Stir to combine.
3. Add Parmesan, cornstarch, black pepper, salt, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and minced cilantro. Stir to combine.
4. I find the best way to really mix the seasonings into the potatoes is to use your hands.

Step 4: Bake

1. Spread the potato wedges evenly onto prepared baking sheets.
2. Make sure you leave space in between each wedge so hot air can circulate.
3. I had the best results when placing the potatoes skin side down, with the point facing upwards.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
5. Keep the baking sheets in the oven, change temperature to 375°F.
6. Continue baking another 40 minutes or until as crispy and golden brown as you’d like.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various meals. Their crispy texture and delicious spices make them a versatile option for any occasion.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli – A creamy garlic dip that complements the flavors of the wedges beautifully.
• Ranch Dressing – This classic dressing adds a cool, tangy flavor perfect for dipping.
• Sriracha Mayo – For those who like heat, this spicy mayo gives a kick to your seasoned wedges.

As a Side Dish

• Grilled Chicken – The richness of grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture of the wedges.
• Steak – Juicy steak and crunchy potato wedges create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Tacos – Serve these wedges alongside your favorite tacos for an extra crunchy bite.

On a Salad

• Caesar Salad – Toss some seasoned wedges on top of a Caesar salad to add crunch and flavor.
• Southwestern Salad – Add wedges to a salad with black beans, corn, and avocado for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Achieving the perfect seasoned baked potato wedges requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Choose the Right Potatoes – Use large russet potatoes for their starchy content, which helps achieve that fluffy interior.
• Cut Uniformly – Slice your potatoes into even wedges to ensure they cook evenly.
• Dry Before Cooking – Make sure potatoes are dry before adding oil and seasonings; this helps them crisp up nicely.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give each wedge enough space on the baking sheet for optimal air circulation, ensuring they get crispy.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on the baking time. If you prefer them extra crispy, leave them in for an additional few minutes.
• Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to try different spices or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges can elevate any meal when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of potato wedges.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Colorful grilled veggies provide a healthy contrast to the savory flavors of the wedges.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the spices in the potato wedges perfectly during summer barbecues.
4. Baked Beans – The smoky sweetness of baked beans pairs wonderfully with crispy potato wedges.
5. Fried Fish – Light and flaky fried fish makes for a classic pairing with seasoned potato wedges.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These hearty stuffed peppers make an excellent main dish alongside your seasoned potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned cooks can make mistakes when preparing Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using unwashed potatoes – Not washing your potatoes can lead to dirt and grit on your wedges. Always wash and dry your potatoes thoroughly before cutting.
• Skipping the oil – Some may think they can skip the oil for a healthier option. However, oil helps achieve that crispy texture. Make sure to coat your wedges evenly.
• Crowding the baking sheet – Placing too many potato wedges on one baking sheet can prevent them from getting crispy. Spread them out to ensure proper airflow.
• Not adjusting cooking time – Different ovens may vary in temperature accuracy. Keep an eye on your wedges and adjust cooking time as needed for perfect crispiness.
• Forgetting seasoning – Under-seasoning can leave your wedges bland. Be generous with spices and taste as you go to ensure delicious flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover seasoned baked potato wedges in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

• Place cooled wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave – Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but be aware this might make them soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop – Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil until they are warmed through and regain some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges, here’s some helpful information.

What type of potatoes are best for baked wedges?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy nature, which results in fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors.

Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or cayenne pepper for added kick.

How do I make my wedges extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, soak cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. This removes excess starch.

Are Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These potato wedges store well, making them perfect for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.

How long does it take to bake these potato wedges?

The total cooking time is about 55 minutes, after preheating the oven, ensuring you achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Final Thoughts

These Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes them a fantastic side dish or snack. You can easily customize them with various seasonings or dips based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to satisfy cravings and impress guests!