Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a lighter flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best)
- 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade—see note below)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Substitution tip: If you’re short on Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work beautifully. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast—while it’s not quite the same, it adds a savory, cheesy flavor that pairs well with ranch seasoning. And if you prefer homemade ranch seasoning, a simple mix of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper will do the trick.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. I like to use parchment to keep cleanup quick—this recipe is easy, but I’m all for saving time wherever I can!
- Cut the washed potatoes into even wedges, about 8 wedges per potato. I find that keeping them roughly the same size helps them bake evenly, so no one bites into a wedge that’s still a little raw inside.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, making sure each wedge is well coated. This step locks in moisture and helps the seasonings stick.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper over the wedges. Toss again until every piece is generously coated. At this point, add the grated Parmesan cheese and toss once more, folding it gently so the cheese sticks but doesn’t clump.
- Spread the wedges out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t crowded, or they won’t crisp up properly. This detail is one I learned early on—crowded wedges steam instead of bake, and that’s no good.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through. You’re looking for a golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy insides. The flipping ensures they brown evenly and get that irresistible crunch on all sides.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture.
I remember the first time I made these wedges for a family dinner and watched my kids’ eyes light up with every bite. It was one of those moments that reminded me why I started RecipeChic—to share recipes that bring joy and connection to the table, no matter how hectic life gets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International