There’s something universally comforting about baked potato wedges—crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and endlessly dippable. But when you pair them with a smoky chipotle ketchup, things go from comforting to crave-worthy. These Crispy Baked Potato Wedges with Smoky Chipotle Ketchup are easy to make, delicious to eat, and ideal for everything from family dinners to game day snacks.
These wedges are oven-baked, not fried, which makes them a healthier option without sacrificing that satisfying crunch. And the spicy, smoky dip? It takes this simple side dish to a whole new level.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex Inspired
Ingredients
For the Potato Wedges
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Russet Potatoes: 3–4 medium-sized, scrubbed clean
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Olive Oil: 2–3 tablespoons
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Paprika (smoked or sweet): 1 teaspoon
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Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
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Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
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Sea Salt: To taste
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Black Pepper: To taste
For the Smoky Chipotle Ketchup
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Ketchup: 1 cup
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Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce: 1, finely minced (adjust for heat preference)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly. Pat dry.
Slice each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3–4 thick wedges, depending on the size. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Season the Wedges
Place the potato wedges in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until well coated.
Add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss again to evenly coat all the wedges in the spice blend.
Step 3: Bake the Wedges
Arrange the seasoned wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down for the best crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes—just be sure to watch them closely.
Step 4: Make the Smoky Chipotle Ketchup
While the potatoes are baking, stir together 1 cup ketchup with the minced chipotle pepper from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Taste and adjust the level of spice—add more chipotle for heat or more ketchup for a milder version.
Set aside until serving.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the baked wedges from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve hot with the smoky chipotle ketchup on the side.
Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flair.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)
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Calories: 220
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 36g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 5g
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Sodium: 320mg
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Vitamin C: 25% DV
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Potassium: 18% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Potato wedges are a classic comfort food that originated as a rustic alternative to fries. With a more substantial bite and natural, skin-on appeal, they’ve become a staple in both fast food and home kitchens.
What makes these wedges stand out is the Tex-Mex twist: chipotle peppers in adobo add smoky heat and complexity to your usual ketchup dip. This smoky condiment has roots in Mexican cuisine and has gained massive popularity in modern kitchens for its ability to elevate simple dishes with bold flavor.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Crunchy Outside, Fluffy Inside: Perfect contrast in texture
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Easy and Accessible: Uses pantry staples and simple steps
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Healthier Than Fried: Oven-baked with just a touch of oil
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Vegan-Friendly: Naturally plant-based and dairy-free
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Customizable Heat: Adjust chipotle level to your taste
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Meal-Prep Friendly: Wedges can be cut and stored ahead
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Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack
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Kid-Approved: Swap chipotle ketchup with regular if needed
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Crispy Without Deep Frying: Thanks to high oven heat
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Gluten-Free: No flour or breadcrumbs needed
Health Benefits
These baked potato wedges are more than just delicious—they’re surprisingly nutritious, especially compared to fried alternatives:
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Potatoes: Provide vitamin C, B6, potassium, and fiber
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Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that aid in nutrient absorption
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Spices: Garlic and paprika offer anti-inflammatory properties
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Chipotle Pepper: Adds capsaicin, a compound known to support metabolism and reduce inflammation
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No Deep Frying: Reduces saturated fat and calorie count
Pairing the wedges with Greek yogurt dip or guacamole can further boost protein and healthy fats.
Serving Suggestions
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As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or wraps
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For Game Day: Serve on a platter with chipotle ketchup, ranch, and guac
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With Breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs or a veggie omelet
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As an Appetizer: Make a loaded wedge platter with cheese, scallions, and bacon bits
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With Soup: Try them with tomato soup or chili for comfort food heaven
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At a Picnic: Pack with a small container of chipotle ketchup
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With a Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or spinach salad
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With Dips: Try alongside hummus, salsa, or garlic aioli
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For Kids: Use plain ketchup or honey mustard
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With Beer or Cider: A perfect pub-style snack pairing
Cooking Tips
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Use Russet Potatoes: They’re starchy and crisp up the best
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Cut Evenly: Uniform wedges = even cooking
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Preheat the Oven Fully: High heat is key to crispiness
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Flip Carefully: Turn once halfway through for even browning
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give wedges space to breathe
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Use Parchment or Grease the Tray: Prevents sticking
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Broil at the End: Adds extra golden crunch
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Make Chipotle Ketchup in Advance: It gets better as it rests
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Let Rest Before Serving: A few minutes makes them crisp up more
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Add Fresh Herbs Last: Parsley, thyme, or chives for color and flavor
Variations to Try
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Cheesy Wedges: Add grated parmesan or cheddar in the last 10 minutes of baking
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Garlic-Parmesan Wedges: Mix garlic and cheese with olive oil before baking
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Spicy Cajun Style: Use Cajun spice mix instead of paprika
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Sweet Potato Wedges: Swap russet potatoes for a sweeter twist
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Loaded Wedges: Top with bacon, green onions, cheese, and sour cream
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Air Fryer Wedges: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes
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Lemon Herb: Toss with lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary
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Asian-Inspired: Serve with sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce
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Buffalo Wedges: Toss in hot sauce and butter before baking
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No-Oil Option: Use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) instead of oil for low-fat version
Conclusion
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging in a cozy solo snack session, these Crispy Baked Potato Wedges with Smoky Chipotle Ketchup hit the spot every time. Crispy edges, a fluffy center, and a bold, smoky dip that brings the heat—this recipe is easy, exciting, and sure to become a household favorite.
Serve them up with your favorite dip, sprinkle with herbs, or pair with a hearty main—the options are endless. Once you try them, you’ll be making them on repeat.
FAQ
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?
Yes! Sweet potatoes work great. Just reduce baking time by 5–7 minutes.
2. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it’s naturally vegan. Just be sure your ketchup doesn’t contain added animal-based ingredients.
3. Can I air-fry these wedges?
Absolutely. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. How spicy is chipotle ketchup?
Moderately spicy. Use half a chipotle pepper for less heat or more if you like it hot.
5. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Cut and season the wedges in advance. Store in the fridge and bake fresh.
6. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to revive crispiness.
7. What’s the best ketchup to use?
Use your favorite brand—organic or low-sugar ketchup also works well.
8. Can I freeze the cooked wedges?
Yes. Let them cool, freeze in a single layer, then reheat in oven or air fryer.
9. Do I have to use parchment paper?
No, but it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
10. What other dips go well with this?
Try garlic yogurt, ranch, guacamole, honey mustard, or even hummus.