Skip to content

Crispy Baked Potato Wedges with Garlic and Paprika

    Golden and crisp at the edges with a tender, fluffy center, these oven-baked potato wedges stay outrageously crunchy thanks to a blast of high heat, a brief soak, and a dusting of starch. Sweet paprika and garlic add aromatic warmth, while a light hand with oil keeps the wedges satisfying without feeling heavy.

    Ingredients

    • Russet potatoes — 2.2 lb (1 kg)
    • Vegetable oil — 2 tbsp (30 ml)
    • Potato starch — 1 tbsp (8 g)
    • Sweet paprika — 1 tsp (2 g)
    • Garlic powder — 1 tsp (3 g)
    • Kosher salt — 1 tsp (5 g), or to taste
    • Freshly ground black pepper — 1/2 tsp (1 g)
    • Dried herbs (oregano, thyme) — 1/2 tsp (optional)

    Step-by-step recipe

    1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), convection if you have it. Place an empty sheet pan inside to preheat.
    2. Scrub the potatoes well; peel if you prefer. Cut into even wedges (8–12 wedges from a large potato).
    3. Cover the wedges with cold water and soak for 10–15 minutes. Drain, then dry very thoroughly with a clean towel.
    4. In a bowl, combine the potato starch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs. Add the oil and stir into a smooth, seasoned slurry.
    5. Add the potato wedges and toss until every surface is lightly coated.
    6. Carefully remove the hot sheet pan and line it with parchment. Arrange wedges in a single layer, cut side down, leaving a little space between them.
    7. Bake for 20 minutes, flip gently, then bake 10–15 minutes more until deeply golden and crisp.
    8. While hot, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and fresh herbs if you like. Serve at once with your favorite dipping sauce.

    Nutritional info per serving

    Nutrient Amount
    Calories 255 kcal
    Protein 5 g
    Fat 7 g
    Carbohydrates 43 g
    Fiber 5 g
    Sodium 575 mg

    📹 Watch video recipe in our Telegram channel

    Tips & variations

    • Crispness = soak + thorough drying + a touch of starch. Don’t skip these steps.
    • Cut wedges to a uniform size for even baking.
    • Don’t crowd the pan—air needs to circulate around the wedges.
    • No potato starch? Swap in 1 tbsp cornstarch, or use 1–2 tsp all-purpose flour/semolina (slightly less crisp).
    • For vivid color add a pinch of turmeric; for heat use cayenne or red pepper flakes.
    • Air fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

    What to serve with

    • Sour cream–dill dip: sour cream, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper.
    • Garlic-herb yogurt dip.
    • Ketchup, barbecue sauce, or warm cheese sauce—classic with potatoes.

    Frequently asked questions

    • Do I need to peel the potatoes? Not required. Just scrub well; the skin adds flavor and texture.
    • Can I make these without starch? Yes, but the crust will be softer. Use cornstarch instead, or a little flour/semolina.
    • How do I reheat wedges and keep them crisp? In the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–8 minutes on a rack, or in a dry skillet over medium heat—do not cover.