These loaded baked potato wedges are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream, they’re the ultimate comfort food!
Who knew potato wedges could be this fun? I love making these for game night—everyone gets to load up their own toppings! Plus, they’re super easy to whip up. 🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for wedges because they become fluffy inside when baked. If you want a healthier option, sweet potatoes work well too! Just note that they’ll change the flavor a bit.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps make the wedges crispy. You can substitute it with vegetable oil or melted butter for a different taste. I often use avocado oil too since it has a high smoke point!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that classic flavor, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice twist, while a dairy-free cheese can work well for dairy-free needs.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smokiness. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tempeh or mushrooms sautéed in olive oil as a substitute.
Green Onions: While they add freshness, you can swap them for chives if you have them on hand. They’ll give a similar oniony kick.
How Can I Ensure My Potato Wedges Are Crispy?
Getting those potato wedges crispier is all about the right technique. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Don’t crowd the wedges on the baking sheet. Give them space to breathe!
- Make sure to coat them well with oil; this helps them crisp up nicely.
- Flipping halfway through baking is key for even browning.
- If they are not crispy enough, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end, but keep an eye on them!
With these tips, you’re set to make perfectly crispy and delicious loaded potato wedges every time!
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Wedges:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish—definitely worth the wait for crispy, cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure to line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Give the russet potatoes a good scrub under running water to clean them. Then, slice each potato in half lengthwise, and cut each half into 4 wedges, making 8 wedges per potato. This will give you nice chunky pieces!
3. Season the Wedges:
In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure each wedge is evenly coated for the best flavor!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned potato wedges on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure the skin side is facing down. This helps them get crispy.
5. Bake Until Crispy:
Now it’s time to bake! Pop the tray in the oven and let the wedges bake for about 35-40 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through so they cook evenly. You want them to be tender inside and crispy on the outside!
6. Add the Cheese:
Once they’re done baking, take the wedges out and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hot potatoes. The heat will melt the cheese beautifully!
7. Bake Again:
Put the baking sheet back in the oven for another 3-5 minutes just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Mmm!
8. Top with Goodies:
Once your cheesy wedges are out of the oven, it’s time to load them up. Top with the chopped bacon, dollops of sour cream, and sprinkle the chopped green onions all over. They’ll look amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these loaded baked potato wedges right away while they’re hot and gooey. They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a meal on their own. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While russet potatoes provide the best texture for wedges, Yukon gold or sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
How Should I Store Leftover Potato Wedges?
Store any leftover potato wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again!
Can I Make These Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these wedges vegan, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace the bacon with crispy tofu or tempeh for added flavor and texture.
What Should I Serve with Loaded Baked Potato Wedges?
These wedges are great on their own, but they pair well with a salad, grilled veggies, or as a side to burgers or steak. You can also serve them as part of a dip platter with your favorite sauces! Enjoy!
