Crispy Potato Wedges (Baked or Air Fried!)

Discover the ultimate recipe for crispy potato wedges, baked or air-fried to perfection. Made with simple ingredients like Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, olive oil, and a flavorful seasoning mix, these golden wedges are a healthy and delicious alternative to deep-fried French fries. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish for dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this easy recipe ensures crispy, flavorful results every time. Perfect for family dinners, game-day parties, or as a healthy comfort food option, these potato wedges are sure to become a favorite

Ingredients

• 4 Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (approximately 3 lbs.)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Seasoning Mix:

• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1½ teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

Preparation

1. Optional Soak: For extra crispy potato wedges, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 20 minutes, or even overnight. This helps remove excess starch that can make them soft and crumbly. After soaking, rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 415°F (210°C).
2. Prepare Seasoning: Mix all the seasoning ingredients in a small bowl, excluding the salt.
3. Wash and Slice Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them completely. Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then slice each half into four wedges, creating 8 wedges per potato. Adjust slicing for larger potatoes to achieve wedges approximately ¾ to 1 inch thick.
4. Dry Thoroughly: Use paper towels to ensure every potato wedge is completely dry for maximum crispiness.
5. Season the Wedges: Add olive oil to the seasoning mix and stir until combined. Drizzle this mixture over the potato wedges in a large bowl, mixing with your hands to coat them evenly.
6. Arrange and Bake: Place the wedges on a large baking sheet, ensuring space around each wedge for proper crisping. Sprinkle with salt. Bake for 20 minutes, flip the wedges, and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare and Season: Follow the same steps as above to prepare and season the potato wedges.
3. Cook in Air Fryer: Arrange the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15 minutes, tossing halfway through. Adjust cooking time based on the desired level of crispiness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices for a delicious bite every time.
• Healthier Option: Baked or air-fried with minimal oil, these wedges are a lighter alternative to deep-fried versions.
• Easy and Versatile: Simple ingredients and flexible cooking methods make this recipe perfect for any occasion.

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Tips

• Even Slicing: Cut the wedges evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t Skip Drying: Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crispy exterior.
• Crowd Control: Leave space between the wedges on the baking sheet or in the air fryer to prevent steaming.
• Adjust Spice: Feel free to increase or decrease the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the wedges during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Herb Lovers: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic boost.
• Spice Swap: Experiment with chili powder, smoked paprika, or curry powder for different flavor profiles.
• Oil Alternative: Use avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor.

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FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes work best for crispy wedges, red potatoes or sweet potatoes are great alternatives.

2. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 375°F or in the air fryer at 350°F until heated through and crispy again.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can soak and slice the potatoes in advance. Store them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then dry and season before cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo.
• Pair with burgers, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

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Enjoy these golden, crispy potato wedges that are perfect for any occasion!