Why You’ll Love Extra Crispy Potato Wedges

• Golden Brown Crunch: These wedges get beautifully golden brown and super crispy with the perfect balance of crunch and softness.
• Healthy Cooking Options: You can choose to bake them in the oven or use an air fryer to reduce oil while still getting a crispy finish.
• Quick & Easy: With minimal preparation and no deep frying, you can make these wedges in under an hour.
• Versatile: Serve them as a snack, side dish, or even as a tasty addition to a burger meal.

Ingredients

4 medium russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

Directions

Prep the Potatoes: Begin by washing and scrubbing the potatoes well to remove any dirt. There’s no need to peel them. Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3-4 wedges, depending on how thick you like them.
Soak the Potatoes: Soak the potato wedges in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes.
Dry the Potatoes: After soaking, drain the wedges and pat them completely dry using a clean towel. The drier the potatoes, the crispier they will be.
Season the Wedges: In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure each wedge is evenly coated in the seasoning mixture.
Baking Instructions: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the wedges out in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
Air Fryer Instructions: If you prefer using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Place the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not stacked. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wedges are crispy and golden.
Serve: Once the wedges are done, remove them from the oven or air fryer. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra salt or seasoning on top for additional flavor. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Extra Crispy Wedges

Cornstarch Is Key: For that signature crunch, don’t skip the cornstarch. It helps absorb moisture and gives the wedges a crispier exterior when cooked.
Soak the Potatoes: Soaking the wedges in water helps remove some of the starch, which contributes to a crispier finish.
Avoid Overcrowding: Whether you’re baking or air frying, give the wedges room to breathe. Overcrowding the pan or basket will result in steamed potatoes instead of crispy ones.

Customizing Your Potato Wedges

Add Spices: You can customize the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Cheesy Wedges: Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the wedges when they’re done baking for a cheesy twist.
Dipping Sauces: Serve these crispy wedges with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, garlic mayo, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary, or use a combination of both for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover potato wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, spread the wedges on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes to bring them back to their crispy state. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Conclusion

These extra crispy potato wedges are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them in the oven or air fryer, these crispy wedges are sure to satisfy your craving for a crunchy, golden-brown treat. By following simple steps and using basic ingredients, you’ll be able to enjoy homemade potato wedges that are far superior to store-bought alternatives. Try them with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear in no time!