Crispy Baked Potato Wedges with Parmesan and Herbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting those golden, crispy edges on the potato wedges.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
• Cut each potato into wedges. Start by slicing the potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3-4 wedges, depending on the size of the potato. Aim for wedges that are about 1 inch thick, as this will help them cook evenly and get crispy.

3. Season the Wedges:

• In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure each wedge is well-coated in the oil and seasoning.
• For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle a bit of paprika or cayenne pepper if you like a slight kick to your wedges.

4. Add Parmesan:

• Once the wedges are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over them. Gently toss again to ensure the cheese sticks to the potatoes. The Parmesan will crisp up during baking, giving the wedges a delicious, cheesy crust.

5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of cooking spray.
• Arrange the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This will help them bake evenly and get crispy.

6. Bake the Potato Wedges:

• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potato wedges for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even golden-brown crust.
• Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t burn, and adjust the cooking time if necessary based on the thickness of your wedges.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the potato wedges are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, ketchup, or aioli, for a complete treat.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Potato Wedges:

1. Perfectly Crispy: The high oven temperature and the layer of olive oil create the perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside of the potatoes soft and fluffy.
2. Cheesy and Flavorful: The Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy flavor that enhances the natural goodness of the potatoes. It forms a crispy, golden crust that makes each bite irresistible.
3. Herb-Infused Goodness: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme infuses the wedges with a wonderful herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with the Parmesan.
4. Healthy and Easy to Make: Unlike fried potato wedges, these baked wedges are a healthier option. The olive oil provides healthy fats, and baking them helps reduce the amount of oil used. Plus, this recipe is simple to make with just a few ingredients!
5. Versatile Side Dish or Snack: These crispy potato wedges are perfect as a side dish for almost any meal, from burgers and steaks to grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. They also make a great snack on their own, perfect for sharing at parties or as a game-day treat.

Tips for the Perfect Crispy Baked Potato Wedges:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For maximum crispiness, be sure to spread the potato wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet, without overcrowding them. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
2. Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for wedges because they have a starchy texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
3. Soak the Potatoes (Optional): If you want extra crispy wedges, soak the cut potato wedges in cold water for 30-60 minutes before baking. This helps remove excess starch, which allows the potatoes to crisp up better.
4. Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-grated kind. Freshly grated cheese will melt and crisp up better, giving the wedges a richer flavor.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: While garlic, onion, and herbs are classic choices, you can experiment with other seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or even lemon zest to add variety to the flavor profile.

Conclusion:

Crispy Baked Potato Wedges with Parmesan and Herbs are the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and comfort. With their golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, they’re a delicious addition to any meal or a tasty snack all on their own. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy steak or enjoying them as a stand-alone treat, these wedges are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Quick to prepare and full of flavor, these crispy potato wedges are a must-try for anyone who loves potatoes in any form. So, preheat your oven, grab some potatoes, and get ready for a delicious, crispy snack that everyone will love!