These Loaded Baked Potato Wedges are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
I love making these as a fun snack or side dish. They are perfect for game day or movie night—just grab one and enjoy the deliciousness! Plus, they’re super easy to whip up. 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking because they have a fluffy interior. If you can’t find them, Yukon Golds are a good second choice as they’re creamy and flavorful.
Olive Oil: This helps to crisp the wedges. You can swap it for melted butter or another oil like vegetable or canola oil if preferred.
Garlic Powder: It adds a great depth of flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, fresh minced garlic works too! Just be cautious; a little goes a long way.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that classic taste. Feel free to use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch. For a vegetarian option, you can use crispy chickpeas or omit it altogether.
Green Onions: They add freshness. You can use chives as a mild substitute or even diced tomatoes for a bit of color.
How Do You Bake Potatoes for Perfect Crispiness?
Getting that golden crispiness on your potato wedges is key. Here are some tips:
- Ensure your potatoes are well-coated in oil and seasoning. This helps crisp them up in the oven.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Space them out to allow hot air to circulate. This is crucial for that crispy texture.
- Flip the wedges halfway through baking to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Remember, patience is key; letting them bake until they’re golden will help achieve that perfect crunch!
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Wedges:
- 4 large russet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 45 minutes total for baking, giving you crispy, cheesy potato wedges ready to enjoy. So set aside about an hour for cooking and assembling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, take your washed and cut potato wedges and place them into a large mixing bowl.
2. Season the Wedges:
Now, pour the olive oil over the wedges, and sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the wedges are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings. This step is key for yummy flavor and crispy edges!
3. Get Baking!
Next, arrange your seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure there’s some space between them so they can bake evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Halfway through, give them a gentle flip to help them crisp up nicely.
4. Add Cheese:
When the wedges are golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the oven. Now, quickly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the hot wedges. Pop them back in the oven for just 3-5 minutes or until the cheese melts beautifully.
5. Top and Serve:
Once the cheese is all melty and delicious, take the potato wedges out of the oven. Top them generously with the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. For the final touch, drizzle sour cream and ranch dressing over the top, if you like. Then, dig in and enjoy your warm, loaded baked potato wedges!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Russet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a different flavor and sweetness to the wedges. Just keep in mind that they might require a slightly shorter baking time, so watch them closely!
How Can I Store Leftover Potato Wedges?
Store any leftover wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Vegan?
Yes! To make these wedges vegan, simply omit the cheese and bacon. You can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if desired, and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or avocado.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Wedges?
These loaded potato wedges are delicious with a variety of dips! You can serve them with guacamole, salsa, or even a zesty chipotle mayo for a fun twist.
