Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are the ultimate flavorful snack or side dish. With a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior and fluffy inside, they bring together the rich aroma of garlic, savory Parmesan, and herbs to create a dish that’s irresistible for gatherings, casual dinners, or game nights.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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4 medium russet potatoes
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Slice the potatoes into thick wedges and place them in a large bowl.
Step 3: Season the Wedges
Drizzle olive oil over the potato wedges. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything until evenly coated.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the wedges in a single layer without overcrowding. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Final Touches
(Optional) Sprinkle more Parmesan cheese over the hot wedges once they come out of the oven. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrients
(Per serving, estimated based on 1 cup – 150g)
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Calories: 320 kcal
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Protein: 6 g
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Fat: 16 g
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Saturated Fat: 3 g
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Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
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Carbohydrates: 42 g
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Fiber: 5 g
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Sugar: 1 g
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Sodium: 500 mg
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Cholesterol: 10 mg
Origins and Inspiration Behind Crispy Baked Potato Wedges
Potato wedges have long been a beloved variation of the classic French fry, offering a thicker, heartier bite that showcases the natural flavor of the potato. Baked versions became popular with the rise of health-conscious eating, providing a way to enjoy crispy, flavorful potatoes without the need for deep-frying.
The addition of garlic and Parmesan gives these wedges an Italian-American twist, elevating them from simple potatoes to a flavorful dish that’s rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. The herbs bring an extra layer of depth, making each wedge a perfect balance of seasoning, crunch, and tender potato goodness.
This version celebrates that timeless appeal with an easy, oven-baked method that ensures both great texture and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection. First, they are easy to prepare with everyday pantry ingredients. No special equipment, fancy techniques, or complicated steps — just simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and incredible results.
Second, they deliver that crave-worthy crispy exterior without the heavy greasiness of deep frying. Thanks to olive oil and high oven heat, the wedges bake to perfection, achieving the ultimate crunch you usually associate with fried foods.
Third, the flavor combination is unbeatable. Fresh garlic infuses the wedges with bold aroma and taste, while Parmesan cheese melts and crisps slightly during baking, creating golden, savory bites that are incredibly satisfying.
Lastly, they’re versatile. Serve them as a side dish to burgers, grilled chicken, or sandwiches, or make them the star of the show as a game-day snack with a variety of dipping sauces.
Nutritional Benefits of Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
While potato wedges are often considered indulgent, this baked version provides a range of nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Russet potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy without the blood sugar spikes caused by refined carbs.
They also supply a significant amount of fiber, especially when the skins are left on, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. Potatoes are rich in potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
Olive oil, used instead of heavier oils for frying, offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that support overall health. Garlic is known for its potential cardiovascular benefits and immune-boosting properties, while Parmesan cheese contributes calcium and protein.
Altogether, these wedges offer a surprisingly wholesome snack or side when prepared with quality ingredients and balanced portions.
Perfect Occasions for Serving Crispy Baked Potato Wedges
Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are incredibly versatile and fit seamlessly into a wide variety of meal settings:
Game Day and Sports Parties: Serve a platter of crispy wedges with a variety of dipping sauces for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Casual Dinners: Pair them with burgers, grilled chicken, steaks, or veggie sandwiches for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Brunches and Lunches: Wedges are a great addition to brunch spreads, offering something savory to balance out sweet options.
Family Gatherings: These wedges are loved by kids and adults alike, making them a perfect option for gatherings where you need a universally appealing side dish.
Late-Night Snacks: Crispy, savory, and satisfying — they’re the ultimate comfort snack for movie nights or casual get-togethers.
No matter the occasion, these potato wedges bring a crispy, cheesy, flavorful touch that everyone will enjoy.
Helpful Cooking Tips for the Best Wedges
Getting perfectly crispy baked wedges requires a few simple but important steps. First, choose russet potatoes, which have a higher starch content and lower moisture, ideal for crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors.
Cut the potatoes into even wedges to ensure consistent cooking. Thick but manageable slices will crisp nicely without overcooking inside.
After slicing, soak the potato wedges in cold water for at least 30 minutes if you have the time. This helps remove excess starch, leading to even crispier results. Be sure to pat them very dry before seasoning.
Coating the wedges thoroughly with olive oil and ensuring they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet is key. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents proper browning.
Flip the wedges halfway through baking for even crispness on both sides. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over the hot wedges immediately after baking for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
Easy Variations to Try
Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences:
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
Herb Lover’s Version: Mix in fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley with the olive oil and seasonings.
Cheesy Overload: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or cheddar during the last 5 minutes of baking for gooey, cheesy wedges.
Different Potatoes: Try using Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Dipping Sauce Ideas: Serve with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or a tangy sriracha mayo.
These small changes keep the recipe exciting and customizable based on what you’re craving or what you have available.
Storage and Reheating Tips
While Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are best enjoyed fresh, they can be stored and reheated successfully with a few tricks. Allow the wedges to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For best results, reheat the wedges in a preheated oven or an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5–10 minutes, until they are heated through and regain their crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended as it tends to make them soggy.
If desired, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan over the wedges before reheating to refresh their cheesy, savory flavor.
Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Russet potatoes provide a rich source of potassium, an essential nutrient that supports heart health and muscle function. They also offer dietary fiber and vitamin C, important for immune support and skin health.
Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that combat inflammation and support cardiovascular wellness.
Garlic, with its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, may help support immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Parmesan cheese offers a concentrated source of calcium and protein, essential for strong bones and muscles, while adding rich umami flavor without needing excessive salt.
Together, these ingredients create a wholesome, nourishing side dish that’s both satisfying and good for your body when enjoyed in balance.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are proof that you don’t need a deep fryer to create restaurant-worthy potatoes at home. Golden and crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with rich, savory flavor, they are everything you could ask for in a snack or side dish.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd, looking for the perfect accompaniment to a weeknight meal, or simply craving something delicious and comforting, these potato wedges will hit the spot. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress, they’re a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Once you take a bite, you’ll see why these crispy, cheesy wedges quickly become everyone’s favorite.