Game Day Loaded Potato Wedges (Print View)
Crispy potato wedges topped with melted cheese, bacon, and fresh ingredients. A perfect game day snack or hearty appetizer for any occasion.
# What You'll Need:
→ Potatoes
01 - 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
→ Toppings
07 - 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 - 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
09 - 0.5 cup sour cream
10 - 3 green onions, thinly sliced
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
12 - 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
02 - Carefully cut each scrubbed potato lengthwise into approximately 8 uniform wedges.
03 - In a spacious mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Ensure all wedges are thoroughly coated.
04 - Arrange the seasoned wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the skin side is facing down. Avoid overcrowding the pan to promote even crisping.
05 - Bake for 30 minutes, turning the wedges halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and have a crisp texture.
06 - Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the partially cooked potato wedges.
07 - Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
08 - Transfer the loaded potato wedges to a serving platter. Adorn with dollops of sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped chives, and jalapeño slices, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- You're going to adore how these wedges deliver ultimate comfort with every bite, loaded with all the good stuff.
- They're surprisingly easy to throw together, yet always feel like a special treat that impresses everyone.
02 -
- Never overcrowd your baking sheet; giving each wedge space is crucial for crispiness, otherwise, they'll steam instead of roast.
- I once used pre-shredded cheese and found it didn't melt as smoothly; shredding your own from a block makes a surprising difference in texture.
03 -
- To get your bacon perfectly crispy with minimal fuss, bake it on a rack over a foil-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) until golden before crumbling.
- For an extra crispy edge on your wedges, you can lightly dust them with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with your seasonings before adding the olive oil.