This recipe for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Wedges holds a special place in my heart. It was passed down from my grandmother, a woman who could turn the simplest ingredients into a comforting and delicious meal. These wedges are the perfect solution for nights when you’re craving something satisfying yet don’t have a lot of time or energy to cook.
Ingredients:
- 3 large yellow potatoes
- 60 grams Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 30-40 grams grated Parmesan cheese
- 50 grams olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Wash and dry the potatoes. Cut them into wedges, aiming for pieces that are roughly equal in size. This will ensure even cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the potato wedges and toss them gently to coat.
- Add the parmesan cheese and minced garlic to the breadcrumb mixture. Toss the potato wedges again, making sure they are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Arrange the potato wedges on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between them for good air circulation and crispy edges.
- Bake the potato wedges for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You can flip the wedges halfway through baking for even browning.
- Once golden brown and tender, remove the potato wedges from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
More Information:
Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference. If you like things extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also substitute other cheeses for the Parmesan, such as cheddar or Gruyere.
For a vegetarian twist, drizzle the finished potato wedges with a sprinkle of truffle oil or balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Here’s some additional information to elevate your Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Wedges:
Choosing Your Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the classic choice for wedges due to their fluffy interior and crispy exterior when cooked. However, you can experiment with other potato varieties like Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
Perfecting the Crisp: Soaking the potato wedges for 30 minutes in cold water before coating them can help remove excess starch, leading to crispier wedges. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before tossing them with the breadcrumb mixture.
Different Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are great for their coarse texture that creates a wonderfully airy crust. But feel free to use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers for a different flavor and texture.
Adding Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, toss chopped fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme with the breadcrumb mixture before coating the wedges.
Dipping Delights: These wedges pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces. Ketchup, ranch dressing, or a simple sour cream and chive dip are all delicious options. For a more adventurous twist, try a spicy sriracha mayo or a creamy garlic aioli.
Leftovers: While these wedges are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Wedges are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish with main courses like grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They’re also perfect for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
The crispy panko breadcrumb crust adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft, fluffy interior of the potatoes. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika creates a flavorful and savory coating that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Nutritional Benefits:
Potatoes are a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure. They also contain vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system. The Panko breadcrumbs add a bit of fiber to the dish, while the olive oil provides healthy fats.
Conclusion:
This recipe for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potato Wedges is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying potato dish. With its simple ingredients and flavorful results, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a side dish that’s both easy to make and impressive, give this recipe a try! You won’t be disappointed.