It’s amazing how food can transport us back to cherished moments, and this recipe for Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges is one such treasure. Growing up in a bustling household, our kitchen was always the heart of family gatherings. My grandmother, a culinary wizard with a flair for transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes, often delighted us with her legendary potato wedges. While her recipe was a closely guarded secret, the aroma of garlic and parmesan wafting from the oven was a comforting constant, a sign that something delicious was about to unfold.
I vividly recall the Sundays when the entire family would gather around the table, eagerly anticipating that crispy, golden perfection that my grandmother masterfully created. The wedges were always served with a side of homemade ranch dressing, and we would debate over which dipping sauce was the best, with the ranch and blue cheese being fierce competitors. Those were not just meals; they were moments of laughter, storytelling, and connection that I hold dear.
As I grew older and began experimenting with cooking, I wanted to recreate those heartwarming experiences in my own kitchen. This recipe for Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges is my modern twist on my grandmother’s classic. It’s a tribute to those Sundays spent with loved ones, a way to bring a piece of my childhood into today’s busy life. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.
The russet potatoes, generously coated with olive oil and a blend of garlic, parmesan, and Italian herbs, bake to crispy perfection. The aroma as they roast in the oven takes me right back to those family gatherings, filling my kitchen with the same comforting scent. These wedges are versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces, just like my grandmother used to serve them.
This recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a connection to family traditions and a reminder of the joy that simple, well-prepared food can bring. I hope it brings a little bit of that warmth and nostalgia into your home as it has into mine.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
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Ingredients
- 3-4 large russet potatoes, sliced into wedges
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro, ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil until they are evenly coated.
Combine garlic powder, salt, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the potato wedges, tossing to ensure they are evenly covered.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned wedges, mixing well to distribute the cheese.
Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, placing them with the skin side down.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the wedges are golden brown and tender. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful potato wedges!
Cooking Tips
For extra crispiness, soak the potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. Pat them dry thoroughly before tossing with oil and seasonings. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These potato wedges are great served as a side dish with burgers or grilled meats. They can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer with various dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or blue cheese dressing.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil if preferred.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall or winter, try adding a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. In the summer, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a delightful flavor.
FAQ:
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russet potatoes provide the best texture for crispy wedges.
Can I make these potato wedges ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato wedges ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. For the best results, bake them fresh or reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. These herbs will give a similar flavor profile.
How can I make the wedges spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick of heat.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese, but freshly grated cheese often melts better and provides a richer flavor.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftover potato wedges is in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
Ingredients
- 3-4 large russet potatoes cut into wedges
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
- Fresh parsley or cilantro ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping Optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a large baking sheet with oil and set it aside.
- Place the potato wedges in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and toss until they're well coated. In a separate small bowl, mix together the salt, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Sprinkle the potato wedges with parmesan cheese, making sure they're evenly covered. Next, add the seasoning mixture and toss again until the wedges are fully coated.
- Arrange the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the skin side is down. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
