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These Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges offer a wonderful way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy snack or side dish. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they bring together the sweetness of sweet potatoes, the sharpness of garlic, and the savory touch of Parmesan cheese in a simple recipe anyone can master.
I discovered this recipe when I needed a snack to upgrade my usual fries. It quickly became a favorite, especially when I add a dollop of garlic aioli for dipping. Now, my family asks for these wedges every weekend.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Two large sweet potatoes: choose firm potatoes without soft spots for the best texture
- Two tablespoons olive oil: the healthy fat that helps crisp the wedges and brings out flavors
- Three cloves garlic minced: fresh garlic gives the dish its signature pungent aroma and taste
- Half a teaspoon black pepper: balances the sweetness with a mild heat
- Half a teaspoon salt or to taste: enhances all the flavors without overpowering
- Note on Parmesan cheese: Use a freshly grated good quality Parmesan for optimal melting and flavor
- If possible: select sweet potatoes that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking
How to Make It
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes carefully; peeling is optional depending on your preference. Cut each sweet potato into evenly sized wedges so they cook uniformly.
- Toss and Season:
- Place the wedges in a large bowl. Drizzle two tablespoons of olive oil over them and add minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure each wedge is coated with oil and seasonings.
- Bake the Wedges:
- Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place them in the oven and bake for twenty minutes. After this time, flip each wedge to brown the other side evenly. Continue baking for an additional ten to fifteen minutes until they develop a golden crisp exterior and are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Parmesan Cheese:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan evenly over the hot wedges. Return them to the oven for another five minutes so the cheese melts and gets slightly crispy on top.
- Finish and Serve:
- Garnish the wedges with fresh parsley or your preferred herb. Serve hot with your favorite dips such as yogurt, garlic aioli, or ketchup for a delightful accompaniment.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how that garlic becomes mellow and sweet during baking, creating an irresistible flavor harmony with the Parmesan. I remember making these for a family game night and watching everyone go back for seconds without hesitation.
Flavor Boosters
Pair these wedges with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. They also work beautifully as a side with burgers or sandwiches, adding a nutritious twist. For extra variety, toss the wedges with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme before baking.
Serving Suggestions
In the fall and winter months, add warming spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy twist. In spring or summer, try a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice after baking to brighten the flavors. Adjust the herbs to use what is freshest and most fragrant in your garden or market.
Creative Twists
Many friends have told me these wedges are their new favorite snack or side. They compliment the crispy texture and forgiving recipe that can be adjusted with simple additions such as chili flakes for more heat or a sprinkle of fresh chives for color.
Following these tips will ensure perfectly crispy and flavorful sweet potato wedges every time.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What is the best way to ensure crispy sweet potato wedges?
Soak the cut wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking and pat them dry thoroughly. This removes excess starch, helping to achieve extra crispiness when baked or air-fried.
- → Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?
Yes, air fry the wedges at 380°F (195°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking and crispiness.
- → How do I adjust the flavor to make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before tossing the wedges with olive oil and spices to introduce a pleasant heat.
- → What dips pair well with these sweet potato wedges?
Garlic aioli, yogurt-based dips, or ketchup complement the garlic and Parmesan flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- → Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is optional; keeping the skin adds extra fiber and texture, but peel if a smoother bite is preferred.