Homemade Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges – Better Than Fries

Craving a crispy, flavorful side dish that fits within your Weight Watchers plan? These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges deliver big on taste without packing in extra points. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, this recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite.

Ingredients

• 3 large russet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized wedges. Place the wedges in a large mixing bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispier wedges.

Season the Potatoes

1. Drain and pat the potato wedges dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. In the same bowl, toss the wedges with olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss again to coat the potatoes in the seasoning mixture.

Bake the Wedges

1. Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring none of them overlap for even baking.
2. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over the wedges.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on the wedges during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the potato wedges from the oven when they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm with your favorite Weight Watchers-friendly dipping sauce, such as light ranch or Greek yogurt with herbs.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: Approximately 1/4 of the recipe)

• Calories: ~170
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• WW Points: ~4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Comfort Food: Baking instead of frying significantly reduces calories and fat while keeping the wedges crispy and delicious.
2. Big Flavor, Low Effort: Garlic, Parmesan, and a blend of herbs make these potato wedges irresistibly tasty without extra points.
3. Versatile Side Dish: These wedges pair perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, or a fresh salad.
4. Kid-Approved: A fun and healthy alternative to store-bought fries, these wedges are a hit with all ages.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Wedges

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for wedges because of their starchy texture, which crisps up beautifully in the oven.
• Don’t Skip the Soak: Soaking the wedges removes starch, resulting in a crispier exterior.
• Space Them Out: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even browning.
• Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix for a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, turkey burgers, or a hearty vegetable soup.
• Snack Time: Enjoy as a guilt-free snack with a low-fat dipping sauce.
• Game Day Treat: Serve a platter of these wedges with a variety of light dips for a healthier game-day appetizer.

These Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are proof that healthy eating can still be indulgent and satisfying. With their crispy edges, soft interiors, and bold flavors, they’re guaranteed to become a household favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe delivers all the flavor you crave without compromising your Weight Watchers goals.