There’s something deeply comforting about a batch of golden, crispy baked potato wedges. They’re everything you want in a side dish — crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re serving them with burgers, roasted chicken, or just enjoying them with your favorite dipping sauce, these wedges are a total crowd-pleaser. Unlike deep-fried versions, these baked wedges are lighter but still deliver all that satisfying crispiness. The secret lies in soaking the potatoes, using the right amount of oil, and baking them at high heat for that irresistible crunch.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

• Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

2. Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor. Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 3–4 thick wedges.

3. Soak the wedges: Place the potato wedges in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, ensuring the wedges bake up extra crispy.

4. Dry completely: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Removing all moisture is key to achieving a crispy texture.

5. Season the wedges: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and cornstarch. Add the potato wedges and toss until evenly coated.

6. Arrange on tray: Spread the wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. This ensures even baking and crispiness on all sides.

7. Bake until golden: Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through. The wedges should be beautifully golden brown and crisp at the edges.

8. Add finishing touches: Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

9. Serve hot: Pair your crispy wedges with ketchup, aioli, or sour cream and enjoy them fresh from the oven.

Nutrients

• Calories: 230 kcal per serving

• Carbohydrates: 36 g

• Protein: 4 g

• Fat: 8 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sodium: 300 mg

• Potassium: 900 mg

• Vitamin C: 25% of daily value

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these baked potato wedges because they’re everything you want in comfort food — crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free. They taste just as indulgent as fried potatoes but are made using only a fraction of the oil. They’re easy to prepare, family-friendly, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a game night or serving dinner for two, these wedges never disappoint. Plus, you can tweak the seasonings to your liking — spicy, cheesy, garlicky, or herby — whatever suits your mood.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Potato wedges originated as a modern twist on the classic French fry. While fries are thin and deep-fried, wedges are thicker and often baked or roasted. The idea likely comes from Western cuisines where potatoes were abundant, especially in the United States and Europe. Baked wedges became popular as a healthier alternative to fries during the late 20th century when home ovens became more common and people sought out ways to enjoy classic comfort foods with less oil. Today, you’ll find them in everything from casual diners to fancy restaurants — sometimes spiced up with herbs, sometimes topped with cheese or bacon bits, but always deliciously satisfying.

Ingredient Spotlight

Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal because of their starchy texture and ability to crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps the seasonings stick while promoting browning.
Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness that complements the potatoes perfectly.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These are the secret ingredients for that savory, irresistible aroma.
Cornstarch: The magic trick for crispiness — it helps absorb moisture and gives the wedges a thin, crunchy coating.
Parmesan and Parsley: Optional garnishes that elevate these wedges from simple to spectacular.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which rarely happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, skip the microwave — it makes them soggy. Instead, pop them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes or air-fry them for 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid freezing the wedges after baking, as potatoes can change texture and become grainy once thawed.

Common Variations to Try

Spicy Cajun Wedges: Add cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning for a fiery twist.
Cheesy Garlic Wedges: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Herb-Infused Wedges: Toss with rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes — just as crispy but naturally sweeter and packed with nutrients.
Lemon Pepper Wedges: Add a dash of lemon zest and cracked pepper before baking for a zesty flavor boost.

Pairing Recommendations

These wedges pair beautifully with so many dishes! Serve them alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, burgers, or sandwiches. They also make an excellent companion to salads or wraps for a balanced meal. For sauces, try garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or classic barbecue sauce. If you’re hosting a gathering, serve them with a dipping platter that includes ranch, cheese sauce, and ketchup — guaranteed to impress any guest.

Health Benefits

Despite being indulgent, these baked potato wedges come with some surprising health benefits. Since they’re baked instead of fried, they contain less fat and fewer calories while still satisfying your cravings. Potatoes are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, supporting heart health and digestion. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, while spices like paprika and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties. When made at home, you control the salt and oil, making them a much healthier alternative to fast food fries.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Potato Wedges are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly irresistible. They strike that ideal balance between crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers, proving that you don’t need a deep fryer to enjoy golden perfection. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or even a party appetizer, they’ll quickly become a household favorite. They’re comforting, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying — everything a good potato dish should be. So next time you crave fries, skip the takeout and make these oven-baked wedges instead. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll feel good knowing you made a delicious, healthier choice.