INGREDIENTS:
- 3-4 large russet potatoes, sliced into wedges
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley (or cilantro), ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
HOW TO MAKE
1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your potatoes. Begin by thoroughly washing and scrubbing 3 to 4 large russet potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their firm texture and ability to crisp up nicely in the oven. Once washed, slice the potatoes into wedges. To do this, first cut the potatoes in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3 or 4 wedges depending on the size of your potatoes. You should end up with wedge-shaped slices that are uniform in size to ensure even baking.
2. Season the Wedges: Once the potatoes are sliced, place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the wedges with 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil not only helps the potatoes cook evenly, but it also aids in making the edges crispy and delicious. Toss the potatoes in the bowl until they are well-coated with the oil.
In a separate small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of salt, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme, which adds a depth of flavor to the wedges. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
3. Add Parmesan Cheese: Next, sprinkle the potato wedges with ½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese gives the wedges a rich, nutty flavor and helps form a crispy, golden crust as the potatoes bake. After adding the cheese, toss the wedges once more to ensure that each piece is evenly coated with both the cheese and the olive oil.
4. Bake the Wedges: Lightly grease a large baking sheet with non-stick spray or a small amount of olive oil. Arrange the potato wedges on the baking sheet in a single layer with the skin side down. This allows the potatoes to cook evenly, with the skin acting as a barrier that helps the wedges crisp up without sticking to the pan.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes. Baking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your wedges and your oven’s characteristics. The wedges are done when they are fork-tender and have a golden-brown color. You can test this by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a wedge – it should glide in easily.
5. Serve: Once the potato wedges are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the wedges hot with your choice of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing, which complement the savory garlic and parmesan flavors beautifully.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish with love of the recipe station !