Baked Potato Wedges: How to Bake the Best Crispy Snack

Are you craving a Baked Potato Wedges side dish but want a healthier alternative to traditional fries? Look no further! These oven-baked wedges offer the perfect balance of crispy edges and a tender inside, all without the excess oil. Whether you’re serving them as a quick snack or alongside your favorite main dish, this recipe for homemade potato wedges is simple to make, full of flavor, and customizable to suit any taste.

Best of all, using an air fryer to make potato wedges can cut down on cooking time while still giving you that irresistible golden crisp. Say goodbye to greasy fries and hello to these guilt-free, crispy roasted potatoes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked potato wedges are not only a healthier alternative to deep-fried French fries but also pack a ton of flavor. By baking instead of frying, you get that satisfying crispy texture without the extra oil, making them a lighter choice for any meal. What’s more, these wedges are incredibly easy to customize. Whether you prefer a classic, savory version or something with a spicy kick, this recipe has options for everyone.

Another great thing about baked potato wedges is how simple they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing side dish ready in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious seasoned potato wedges:

Tip: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:

• For Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that your potato wedges turn out beautifully crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
• For Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). If you love air fryer recipes, this method will not only save you time but also produce perfectly crispy wedges every time.

Prepare the Potatoes:

Wash and scrub your potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on will add extra texture and nutrients. Slice each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into wedges (about 6-8 wedges per potato).

Soak the Potato Wedges:

For extra-crispy wedges, soak the cut potato wedges in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps the wedges crisp up beautifully. If you’re short on time, soaking for 15 minutes will still make a difference!

Season the Wedges:

After soaking, drain the wedges and pat them dry with a towel. Transfer the wedges to a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss again to ensure the wedges are evenly seasoned.

Arrange on a Baking Sheet or in Air Fryer Basket:

• For Oven: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the potato wedges out in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
• For Air Fryer: Place the wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer isn’t large enough to fit them all at once.

Cook the Wedges:

• For Oven: Bake the wedges for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. The wedges should be golden-brown with crispy edges. If you like them extra crispy, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
• For Air Fryer: Air fry the wedges for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They should be golden-brown and crispy on the outside with a soft, tender inside.

Garnish and Serve:

Once cooked, remove the potato wedges from the oven or air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Potato Wedges

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan or Air Fryer Basket: Make sure the wedges have enough space to allow the hot air to circulate. Overcrowding can lead to soggy wedges instead of crispy ones.
• Flip the Wedges: Halfway through cooking, flip the wedges to ensure they crisp up evenly on both sides.
• Use High Heat: Whether baking or air frying, using high heat helps achieve the perfect crispness and tenderness.
• Soak the Potatoes: This step is crucial for getting that golden, crispy texture. Don’t skip it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Even if you’re in a rush, don’t skip soaking the potatoes. This helps remove excess starch and ensures a crispier texture.
• Underseasoning: Make sure the wedges are evenly coated with oil and spices. This not only enhances flavor but also contributes to the crisping process.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Keep an eye on the wedges during cooking. You want them crispy but not burnt!

How to Customize Your Potato Wedges

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few fun ideas for customizing your wedges:

• Spicy Wedges: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Wedges: Top the baked wedges with grated Parmesan cheese after baking for a cheesy, savory twist.
• Herb Wedges: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for an aromatic boost.

Nutritional Information

These baked potato wedges are a healthier alternative to traditional French fries. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes? Yes! Sweet potatoes make a great substitute, offering a naturally sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than russet potatoes, so adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make sure the wedges are extra crispy? The key to crispy wedges is soaking them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket.

Can I prepare the wedges in advance? Absolutely! You can prep the wedges in advance by cutting and seasoning them. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake or air fry them when you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

These baked potato wedges are a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier, yet just as tasty, alternative to fries. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or as a complement to your main meal, these potato wedges will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!