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 edges crispy and caramelized, its interior soft and fluffy, all while being generously coated in a savory blend of garlic and Parmesan. It’s an explosion of flavor and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

While sweet potatoes themselves have a rich history, originating in Central and South America and enjoyed for centuries, the combination of garlic and Parmesan is a more modern, Italian-inspired twist. This pairing elevates the humble sweet potato to something truly special. Think of it as a delicious fusion of old-world comfort and contemporary culinary creativity.

What makes these Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato is beautifully complemented by the pungent garlic and salty Parmesan. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight side or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these wedges are a guaranteed hit. The crispy exterior and soft interior provide a delightful textural contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Get ready to experience a flavor sensation that’s both comforting and exciting!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Sweet Potato Wedges:

Alright, let’s get started with these amazing Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges! First things first, we need to prep our sweet potatoes. I like to use large ones because, well, more wedges for everyone! Make sure you give them a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you prefer, but I personally love the added texture and nutrients from the skin, so I leave it on.

1. Cutting the Sweet Potatoes: Now comes the fun part – cutting the sweet potatoes into wedges. The key here is to aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. Start by cutting each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Then, place the flat side down and cut each half into wedges, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly identical; we’re going for rustic charm here!
2. Preheating the Oven: While you’re cutting the sweet potatoes, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is nice and hot when the wedges are ready to go in, which helps them get that crispy exterior we’re after.
3. Preparing the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!

Seasoning the Sweet Potato Wedges:

This is where the magic happens! We’re going to coat these wedges in a flavorful blend of spices that will make your taste buds sing. Don’t be shy with the seasonings – sweet potatoes can handle a lot of flavor.

1. Combining the Spices: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. I like to use a generous pinch of salt and pepper, but adjust to your own taste preferences. The smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can substitute regular paprika.
2. Coating the Wedges: Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl and toss them thoroughly with the spice mixture. Make sure each wedge is evenly coated. You can use your hands for this – it’s the most efficient way to get everything covered. Just be prepared to get a little messy!
3. Arranging on the Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned 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, resulting in soggy fries. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

Cooking the Sweet Potato Wedges:

Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Keep a close eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on your oven.

1. Baking Time: Bake the sweet potato wedges in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This ensures they cook evenly on both sides.
2. Checking for Doneness: To check if the wedges are done, pierce one with a fork. It should be tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. If they’re not quite there yet, continue baking for a few more minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Adding the Garlic Parmesan Goodness:

This is the final touch that takes these sweet potato wedges from good to absolutely irresistible! The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese is a match made in heaven.

1. Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Mixture: While the sweet potato wedges are baking, prepare the garlic Parmesan mixture. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
2. Adding the Garlic Parmesan: Remove the sweet potato wedges from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with the garlic Parmesan mixture. The heat from the wedges will help the cheese melt and adhere to them.
3. Finishing Touches: Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and slightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn the cheese.

Serving and Enjoying:

These Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges are best served immediately, while they’re still warm and crispy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

1. Garnishing: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the sweet potato wedges.
2. Serving Suggestions: Serve these wedges as a side dish with your favorite burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats. They’re also delicious as a snack or appetizer.
3. Dipping Sauces (Optional): If you like, serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, ketchup, or aioli. I personally love them with a creamy garlic dip!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and variations to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a little heat.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
• Herb Variations: Try using different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, instead of oregano and thyme.
• Air Fryer Option: For even crispier wedges, you can cook them in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the wedges for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• Sweetness Boost: Drizzle a little maple syrup or honey over the wedges before baking for a touch of sweetness.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftover sweet potato wedges (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a crispier result.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 200-250 per serving
• Fat: 10-15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Protein: 5-7 grams

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a winner because it combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. The key to achieving crispy wedges is to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and spices and that they are not overcrowded on the baking sheet. Flipping them halfway through cooking ensures they cook evenly on both sides. The addition of garlic Parmesan at the end adds a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more!

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 plain addictive. I know I’ve made a batch (or two… or three!) in the past week alone. But seriously, what’s not to love? They’re healthier than regular fries, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. If you’re looking for a side dish that will impress your family and friends, or just a satisfying snack to enjoy on your own, then this recipe is an absolute must-try.

Why are these wedges a must-try? Because they elevate the humble sweet potato to a whole new level of deliciousness. The garlic and parmesan create a savory, umami-rich coating that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potato. And the crispy edges? Oh, the crispy edges! They’re the best part, in my opinion. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. It’s a win-win situation all around.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! These wedges are incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They’re also fantastic as an appetizer with a creamy dipping sauce, like ranch, aioli, or even a simple sour cream and chive dip. For a vegetarian meal, try pairing them with a hearty salad or a black bean burger.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment with some variations?

Variations to Try:

* Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic parmesan mixture for a little kick.
* Herb-Infused Wedges: Toss the wedges with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano before baking.
* Maple-Glazed Wedges: Drizzle the baked wedges with a touch of maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
* Vegan Sweet Potato Wedges: Substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version. You can also use a plant-based butter alternative.
* Everything Bagel Seasoning Wedges: Instead of parmesan, toss the wedges with everything bagel seasoning before baking for a unique and flavorful twist.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize the recipe to your own taste.

I truly believe that these Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re simple enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. They’re a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some sweet potatoes, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of these incredible wedges. I’m confident that you’ll be hooked after the first bite.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. I love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear how much you love these wedges!