Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Old Bay Potato Wedges?
They are a healthier, oven-baked alternative to traditional fries, featuring russet potatoes seasoned with Old Bay and baked to a perfect crunch without added fats.
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are the best choice for this recipe to achieve the desired fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
How should I cut the potatoes into wedges?
Slice each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each of those halves into thirds to create evenly sized wedges.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, you should leave the skins on for the best texture, though you should trim off any bruised or pitted spots.
Why is it recommended to soak the potatoes in water?
Soaking the wedges helps reduce starch, which results in a much crispier potato after baking.
How long should I soak the potato wedges?
For the best results, soak them for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Can I skip the soaking step if I am in a hurry?
Yes, you can skip the soak if you are pressed for time, but the wedges will not be as crispy as they would be otherwise.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 475ยฐF (245ยฐC) to ensure a hot environment for crisping.
Do I need to use oil to bake these wedges?
No, this recipe is designed to be baked without any added fats or grease.
Should I grease the baking sheet?
No, use a large, ungreased baking sheet for this recipe.
How should I arrange the wedges on the pan?
Place the wedges on the baking sheet with the skin side facing down initially.
What is Old Bay Seasoning?
Old Bay is an iconic blend of herbs and spices that provides a punchy, savory flavor profile to the potatoes.
How much seasoning should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning, but you can adjust this to your personal taste.
Is there added salt in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is used, though you can add more if desired before serving.
Can I add fresh herbs to the wedges?
Yes, chopped fresh dill is an optional ingredient that can be added before baking for extra flavor.
How long do the wedges need to bake?
Bake them for 30 to 45 minutes until they are golden brown and bubbly.
Do I need to flip the potatoes while they bake?
Yes, flip the wedges halfway through the cooking time (about 15-20 minutes in) for uniform crispiness.
How do I know when the wedges are finished?
They are done when they are nicely browned and crispy on the outside. It is easy to undercook them, so ensure they look golden.
Can these potato wedges be overcooked?
It is quite hard to overcook these, so feel free to leave them in the oven until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
What is the texture of these potato wedges?
They are perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Are these wedges healthy?
Yes, they are considered a healthier alternative because they are baked without oil and are low in sodium.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
What dipping sauces go well with Old Bay wedges?
They pair well with ketchup, Dijon mustard, ranch dressing, sour cream, barbecue sauce, or honey-mustard.
How should I clean the potatoes?
Thoroughly clean them under running water to remove dirt and debris before cutting.
What should I do after soaking the potatoes?
Drain the water and pat the wedges completely dry with a clean kitchen towel before seasoning.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 ingredients: russet potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and optional fresh dill.
What can I serve these wedges with?
They make a fantastic side for grilled meats, a satisfying snack, or an appetizer for a crowd.
Are these wedges low sodium?
Yes, the recipe aims to keep sodium levels low while maintaining high flavor.
Can I add more salt after baking?
Absolutely, feel free to add extra salt to your preference once they are out of the oven.
How many potatoes does this recipe use?
The recipe uses 5 medium russet potatoes.