Extra crispy potato wedges make for a delightful snack or side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. Their crunchy exterior and fluffy interior create a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving them at a weekend barbecue or enjoying them during a movie night, these tasty wedges are sure to please everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
These extra crispy potato wedges are loved for many reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have at home. You can customize the flavor profile by changing the spices or adding your favorite herbs, giving you endless possibilities for creativity. The key to their deliciousness lies in the cooking method, which results in a golden-brown crunch that is simply unbeatable. Additionally, these wedges are healthier than many fried alternatives, as you can achieve that crispiness with much less oil. They serve as a fantastic accompaniment to burgers, sandwiches, or even as a stand-alone snack with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients for Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt, and pat them dry with a towel.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into wedges. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Sprinkle the mixture over the potato wedges and toss again until they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch, as this will help them crisp up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The wedges should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
How to Serve Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
Extra crispy potato wedges are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. One of the best aspects of these wedges is their ability to pair well with various dipping sauces. You might want to try them with classic ketchup, creamy ranch dressing, or tangy barbecue sauce for a flavor combination that excites the palate. You can arrange them on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs, inviting your guests to dig in immediately.
For a fun twist, serve the wedges alongside a selection of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or guacamole, allowing everyone to personalize their portion. These wedges also shine when served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, veggie burgers, or fish fillets. Feel free to experiment with flavors by pairing the wedges with spicy salsas or zesty aioli for a more gourmet touch.
Expert Tips for Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
To achieve the ultimate extra crispy potato wedges, follow these expert tips. First, always choose russet potatoes, as their high starch content bakes up crispy and fluffy. Ensure you soak the wedges in cold water for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step helps reduce excess starch, making the final product crunchier.
When seasoning the wedges, don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to cater to your taste preferences. If you’re a fan of heat, add more cayenne or consider a sprinkle of chili powder for additional zest. Spacing the wedges on the baking sheet allows the hot air in the oven to circulate around them, promoting even crispiness. If you want to double the recipe, use two baking sheets instead of crowding one. Lastly, let the wedges cool for a couple of minutes once they come out of the oven. This resting time will help maintain their crunch before serving.
How to Store Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
If you happen to have leftover extra crispy potato wedges, you can store them to enjoy later. Allow the wedges to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can heat them up in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps maintain their crispy texture. Avoid using a microwave, as this can make the wedges soggy. For people who love meal prep, consider cooking a big batch at the beginning of the week. You can quickly reheat them as a convenient side dish or snack anytime.
Variations of Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own variations of extra crispy potato wedges. For a Mediterranean twist, toss the wedges with olive oil, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon juice before baking. This combination offers a fresh and aromatic flavor profile that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
If you want a cheesy version, sprinkle the wedges with grated cheese in the last five minutes of baking. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can take these fries to the next level. For a more indulgent treat, consider topping them with chili and cheese, creating a delicious loaded potato experience.
Herbs and spices can also be changed based on your preferences. Add fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor, or opt for a pinch of cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern flair. Experiment with these variations to find a combination that excites your taste buds while making your extra crispy potato wedges unique to your palate.
FAQ about Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
What should I do if my potato wedges are not crispy?
If your wedges are not coming out crispy, ensure that you are cutting them into uniform sizes and spreading them out on the baking sheet without overcrowding. Additionally, soaking the potatoes before baking can significantly help in achieving that desired crunch.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Be aware that sweet potatoes may bake a little differently, so keep an eye on their doneness as they may require slightly less time in the oven.
How do I ensure my wedges have a lot of flavor?
Flavor comes from both the seasoning and the cooking method. Make sure to season generously with your favorite spices and herbs, and consider marinating the potatoes in oil and seasonings before baking for a more intense flavor.
Can I freeze extra crispy potato wedges?
You can freeze cooked potato wedges for later use. Place the cooled wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat them, bake them from frozen at a high temperature to regain their crispiness.
Extra Crispy Potato Wedges
Ingredients
Potato Wedges
- 4 large large russet potatoes Russet potatoes are ideal for crispiness.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Used to help crisp the wedges.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) For added heat.
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Scrub the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt, and pat them dry with a towel.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into wedges, aiming for uniform sizes.
- Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Sprinkle the mixture over the potato wedges and toss again until they are evenly coated.
Cooking
- Arrange the wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!