Frequently Asked Questions
What are Garlic Parmesan Roasted Red Potato Wedges?
They are a crispy and savory side dish made by tossing par-boiled red potato wedges in a mixture of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese before roasting them to a golden brown finish.
Why do I need to boil the potatoes before roasting?
Boiling the wedges for 5-7 minutes ensures they are tender on the inside while allowing the outside to become extra crispy in the oven.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, while red potatoes are recommended for their texture, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes can also be used for this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C) for an even and effective roast.
How long do the potatoes take to roast?
The potatoes typically take 20-25 minutes in the oven, depending on how crispy you like them.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe—potatoes, butter, garlic, and cheese—are naturally gluten-free.
How do I ensure the wedges are crispy?
Make sure to drain the potatoes well after boiling and spread them in a single layer in the baking dish so they don't steam.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of minced garlic with approximately 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
What should I serve these potatoes with?
They pair excellently with steak, roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as a hearty side for burgers.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat these potato wedges?
Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F until warmed through to maintain their crispy texture.
Can I freeze these potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze roasted wedges for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for best results.
Do I need to peel the red potatoes?
No, the skin on red potatoes is thin and nutritious, and it adds a great texture to the roasted wedges.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 140 calories per serving based on 6 servings per recipe.
Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely! Rosemary, thyme, or dried oregano are excellent additions to the garlic Parmesan mixture.
Should I flip the potatoes while baking?
Yes, flipping the wedges halfway through the 20-25 minute baking time ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry the coated wedges at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 13 x 9 inch baking dish or a large rimmed baking sheet works best to give the wedges enough space.
How much butter is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of melted butter.
What type of Parmesan cheese is best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended as it melts and sticks to the potatoes better than the pre-packaged shelf-stable kind.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil can be used for a lighter version, though butter provides a richer flavor.
How many potatoes do I need?
The recipe requires 4 large red potatoes.
How do I cut the potatoes into wedges?
Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3 or 4 uniform wedges.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can par-boil the potatoes ahead of time, but they are best when roasted and served immediately.
Is the sodium content high?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt for 6 servings, but the total sodium will also depend on whether you use salted or unsalted butter.
Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?
Yes, jarred minced garlic works fine and is a great time-saver for this recipe.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
Why did my garlic burn in the oven?
If the garlic is minced too finely or the oven is too hot, it can burn. Tossing it thoroughly with the butter and cheese helps protect it during roasting.