Baked Cheddar Herb Potato Wedges

This rustic potato side dish combines the comfort of oven-baked wedges with the indulgence of melted cheddar and aromatic herbs. The perfect balance of crispy edges and fluffy centers makes these wedges irresistible for family dinners or casual entertaining.

I first made these potato wedges during a backyard barbecue when I needed a crowd-pleasing side dish that wouldn't keep me stuck in the kitchen. They disappeared faster than the main course, and now they're requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: The starchy texture creates the perfect crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Choose firm potatoes without green spots or sprouts for best results.
• Olive oil: Helps achieve that golden crispiness while adding subtle flavor. Use a good quality extra virgin for best taste.
• Garlic powder: Provides aromatic depth without burning like fresh garlic might. Look for fresh powder without clumps.
• Onion powder: Adds savory notes that complement the potatoes perfectly. Fresh powder makes a noticeable difference.
• Dried herbs: Thyme and parsley create an aromatic base that infuses into the potatoes while baking. Check that your dried herbs still have strong aroma.
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Spanish varieties offer the most authentic flavor.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that creates an irresistible melty topping. Freshly grated melts much better than pre-shredded varieties with anti-caking agents.
• Fresh herbs: Chives and parsley add bright color and fresh flavor contrast. Always add these at the end to preserve their vibrant taste.

Instructions

Prepare the oven and potatoes:

Heat your oven to 425°F while you wash your potatoes thoroughly. Cut each potato lengthwise into quarters, then cut each quarter in half again to create wedges of equal size. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking throughout.

Season generously:

Place the wedges in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle all the dried seasonings over the potatoes and use your hands to toss until every wedge is evenly coated. The oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes browning.

Arrange for optimal crispiness:

Transfer the seasoned wedges to your parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they're in a single layer with the skin sides down. Leave small spaces between each wedge to allow hot air circulation. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.

First bake:

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then carefully flip each wedge and continue baking for another 15 minutes. This two-stage process ensures even browning on multiple sides.

Add the cheese transformation:

Remove the tray from the oven when the potatoes are golden and crisp-edged. Sprinkle the freshly grated cheddar evenly across all wedges, making sure to distribute it well for maximum coverage.

Final melt:

Return the tray to the oven for just 5 minutes, watching closely as the cheese transforms from shredded to melted and bubbly with slight browning at the edges. This quick final bake prevents the potatoes from overcooking.

Garnish and serve:

Immediately transfer the hot wedges to a serving platter and sprinkle generously with fresh herbs. The residual heat will release their aromatic oils. Serve right away while the cheese is still gloriously melted.

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The smoked paprika is my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother always said a good potato dish needs that hint of smokiness to elevate it from ordinary to memorable. When I make these for Sunday dinners, the kitchen fills with an aroma that brings everyone to the table before I even call them.

Perfect Potato Selection

The variety of potato you choose significantly impacts the final texture of your wedges. Russets are ideal for their high starch content, which creates that fluffy interior we all crave. When shopping, look for potatoes that feel heavy for their size with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any with green spots, sprouts, or soft areas. Store them in a cool, dark place rather than the refrigerator, as cold temperatures convert their starch to sugar, affecting both flavor and texture when baked.

Make-Ahead Options

These potato wedges can easily fit into your meal prep routine. You can cut and soak the potatoes up to 24 hours ahead of time keep them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. When ready to bake, drain thoroughly and pat completely dry before seasoning. Alternatively, you can bake the wedges without cheese for 25 minutes, let them cool, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat at 425°F for 10 minutes, then add cheese and finish as directed. The texture wont be quite as perfect as freshly made, but still delicious.

Dipping Sauce Pairings

While these wedges are flavorful enough to stand alone, a good dipping sauce elevates them to restaurant quality. Try mixing sour cream with fresh chives and a pinch of garlic powder for a classic option. For something with a kick, blend mayo with sriracha and lime juice. My personal favorite is a quick aioli made with mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Set out a variety of options and watch your family or guests mix and match to find their perfect combination.

Seasonal Adaptations

Summer version Replace dried herbs with fresh rosemary and thyme before baking. Finish with crumbled feta instead of cheddar for a lighter profile.

Fall harvest Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the spice blend and serve alongside roasted turkey or chicken.

Winter comfort Food Switch to sweet potatoes and add a sprinkle of brown sugar before the final bake for a sweet and savory variation.

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Serve these irresistible wedges immediately to enjoy their maximum crispness and cheesy goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I achieve extra crispy wedges?

Soak potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before baking, then pat dry thoroughly before seasoning. This removes excess starch.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, try swapping cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or your preferred cheese for a customized flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, the ingredients are gluten-free, but verify your cheese and spices for certification if required.

→ What dipping sauces pair well?

Sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce complement the cheesy, herbed potatoes perfectly.

→ Can I make this without dairy?

Yes, substitute the cheddar with a plant-based cheese if avoiding dairy for dietary reasons.

→ Should I peel the potatoes?

It's optional; leaving skins on enhances flavor and texture while adding more nutrients to the wedges.