This simple and delicious recipe combines crispy oven-baked potato wedges with a smooth and flavorful cheesy sauce. The wedges are coated in cornstarch to ensure a perfectly crispy exterior, while the creamy cheese sauce adds a comforting, indulgent touch. This makes a perfect snack or side dish for parties, game days, or any casual meal.
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Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Potato Wedges:
- 900g (2 lbs) potatoes
- 4 tablespoons corn starch
- Salt, pepper, and paprika (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons oil (for baking)
- For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 25g (1 oz) butter
- 1 tablespoon wheat flour
- 1 cup milk (240ml)
- 40g (1.5 oz) cheese (cheddar or any melting cheese, grated)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and Cut the Potatoes:
Wash the potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on for extra flavor and texture. Cut each potato into wedges by slicing them in half lengthwise and then cutting each half into 3-4 wedges. - Coat the Potatoes:
Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and toss them with 4 tablespoons of corn starch to ensure an even coating. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of oil and toss again to coat the wedges evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Potato Wedges
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). - Bake the Potatoes:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through, until they are crispy and golden on the outside and tender on the inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Sauce
- Melt the Butter:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 25g of butter. - Make the Roux:
Add 1 tablespoon of wheat flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. This roux will thicken the cheese sauce. - Add the Milk:
Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. - Melt the Cheese:
Lower the heat to low and add the 40g of grated cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. - Season the Sauce:
Add salt and pepper to taste. For a bit of extra flavor, you can also add a pinch of paprika or your favorite seasoning.
Step 4: Serve the Potato Wedges with Cheesy Sauce
- Plate the Wedges:
Once the wedges are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and arrange them on a serving plate. - Drizzle the Sauce:
Drizzle the cheesy sauce over the potato wedges or serve it on the side for dipping. - Garnish (Optional):
For added flair, sprinkle chopped parsley or extra grated cheese over the wedges before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair these wedges with a fresh salad or serve alongside burgers or grilled meats.
- Add a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for more variety.
- Serve as a snack or appetizer at a gathering, paired with cold drinks.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispiness, soak the potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before coating them in cornstarch. Dry them thoroughly before baking.
- Ensure the potato wedges are evenly spaced on the baking sheet to promote even cooking.
- You can use different seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or chili powder to customize the flavor of the wedges.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes provide a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
- The cheese adds calcium and protein, making this a more filling snack or side dish.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe contains dairy and gluten (from the cheese and flour). For a gluten-free option, substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx. 4 servings):
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 8g
Storage:
- Leftovers: Store any leftover potato wedges and cheese sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the wedges in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Potato wedges can be frozen after baking. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven until crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The cornstarch creates a wonderfully crispy texture on the wedges that rivals deep-fried versions, without the added oil.
- The cheesy sauce adds a rich, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the crispy potatoes.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different seasonings and toppings to suit your taste.
Conclusion:
These crispy potato wedges with cheesy sauce are a crowd-pleasing snack or side that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for family gatherings or casual meals at home.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these wedges in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook the potato wedges in an air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through. - What other types of cheese can I use?
You can use any good melting cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for the sauce. - How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free milk and cheese to make the sauce. - Can I make the wedges without cornstarch?
Yes, but the cornstarch helps to create a crispier texture. If you skip it, the wedges may be less crispy but still tasty. - How do I make the wedges spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicier version. - Can I add toppings to the wedges?
Yes, you can top the wedges with bacon bits, jalapenos, or chives for extra flavor and texture. - Can I prepare the potato wedges in advance?
Yes, you can cut and season the wedges in advance, then bake them just before serving. - What’s the best way to reheat the wedges?
Reheat the wedges in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor. They may cook faster, so keep an eye on them while baking. - How do I prevent the wedges from sticking to the pan?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.