Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges: The Ultimate Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges: Prepare to meet your new favorite side dish! Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly roasted sweet potato wedge, its natural sweetness enhanced by the savory punch of garlic and the salty, nutty goodness of Parmesan cheese. It’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

Sweet potatoes themselves have a rich history, originating in Central and South America thousands of years ago. They’ve since become a beloved staple in cuisines around the world, celebrated for their nutritional value and versatility. While often enjoyed in sweet preparations, pairing them with savory elements like garlic and Parmesan elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What makes these Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweet potato offers a creamy, slightly caramelized interior, while the garlic and Parmesan create a crispy, savory crust. They’re also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional fries, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a flavorful side dish to complement your main course, these wedges are guaranteed to be a hit. I know that once you try this recipe, it will become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Sweet Potato Wedges:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those sweet potatoes nice and crispy. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the wedges in.
2. Prepare the sweet potatoes. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. You don’t need to peel them, as the skin adds texture and nutrients. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the olive oil adhere better and promotes crisping.
3. Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges. Place each sweet potato on a cutting board. Cut it in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into wedges, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly.
4. Season the wedges. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure every wedge is coated evenly with the oil and spices. I like to use my hands to really get in there and make sure everything is well distributed.
5. Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the sweet potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the wedges instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

Cooking the Sweet Potato Wedges:

1. Roast the sweet potato wedges. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes.
2. Flip the wedges. After 20-25 minutes, carefully flip the sweet potato wedges with a spatula. This ensures even browning and crisping on both sides.
3. Continue roasting. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potato wedges are tender and golden brown. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your wedges and your oven.
4. Check for doneness. To check if the sweet potato wedges are done, pierce one with a fork. It should be easily pierced and feel tender. If they’re not quite there, continue roasting for a few more minutes, checking frequently.

Adding the Garlic Parmesan Flavor:

1. Prepare the garlic Parmesan mixture. While the sweet potato wedges are roasting for the final time, prepare the garlic Parmesan mixture. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
2. Add the garlic Parmesan mixture to the wedges. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the hot sweet potato wedges.
3. Return to the oven (briefly). Place the baking sheet back in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and slightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4. Garnish and serve. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sweet potato wedges cool slightly on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best served hot and fresh.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up! For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cayenne pepper.
• Herb it up! Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Add them along with the other spices.
• Sweeten it up! For a sweeter flavor, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the wedges before roasting.
• Vegan option. Use vegan Parmesan cheese and olive oil instead of butter.
• Air Fryer Option: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Toss the seasoned sweet potato wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and crispy. Add the garlic Parmesan mixture during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. This is super important! Overcrowding will steam the sweet potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in soggy wedges. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and have a more intense flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
• Adjust the garlic to your liking. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic to the Parmesan mixture.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. These sweet potato wedges are delicious on their own, but they’re also great with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, aioli, or sriracha mayo.
• Storage: Leftover sweet potato wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispness.

Troubleshooting:

• Wedges are not crispy: Make sure you’re not overcrowding the pan. Also, ensure the sweet potatoes are dry before tossing them with oil and spices. A higher oven temperature (up to 425°F/220°C) can also help.
• Wedges are burning: Reduce the oven temperature slightly and keep a closer eye on them. You can also tent the baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Garlic is burning: Add the garlic Parmesan mixture during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent the garlic from burning.
• Wedges are too soft: Increase the roasting time and temperature. Make sure the sweet potatoes are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 250-300
• Fat: 12-15g
• Saturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 10-15mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 8-10g
• Protein: 4-5g

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a great way to enjoy sweet potatoes and a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor combinations. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges are truly a game-changer. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory, crispy and tender, and honestly, they’re just incredibly addictive. I know I’ve made a batch (or two!) disappear in record time. This recipe is a must-try because it elevates the humble sweet potato to something truly special. It’s simple enough for a weeknight side dish, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. The combination of the roasted sweetness of the sweet potato, the pungent garlic, and the salty, nutty Parmesan is simply divine. Plus, it’s a relatively healthy way to indulge in something that feels incredibly decadent.

But the best part? It’s so versatile! While I love them just as they are, straight from the oven, there are so many ways you can customize these wedges to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic Parmesan mixture before baking. Or, if you’re a fan of herbs, a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme would be absolutely delicious.

Serving Suggestions:

These Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges are fantastic as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also make a surprisingly satisfying vegetarian main course when served with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side salad. For a fun twist, try dipping them in your favorite aioli or a creamy avocado dip. They’re also amazing as a snack – perfect for movie night or game day!

Variations:

* Spicy Wedges: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the garlic Parmesan mixture.
* Herbaceous Wedges: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme over the wedges before baking.
* Vegan Wedges: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan-friendly flavor. You can also use a plant-based butter alternative.
* Loaded Wedges: After baking, top the wedges with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives for a truly indulgent treat.
* Air Fryer Wedges: For an even quicker and crispier version, try cooking these wedges in your air fryer! Just reduce the cooking time by a few minutes and keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your rotation. It’s a crowd-pleaser, it’s easy to make, and it’s just plain delicious. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, grab some sweet potatoes, and get ready to experience the magic of these Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? Did you serve them with a particular dish? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking!

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