Introduction:

Looking for a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fries? Look no further than these WW Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges! They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold flavors. What makes them even better is that they’re baked instead of fried, making them a great choice for anyone following the WW (Weight Watchers) program or simply seeking a lighter, lower-calorie version of their favorite comfort food. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a savory dish that pairs perfectly with any meal, making it an ideal side for lunch, dinner, or a snack.

These baked potato wedges are versatile enough to complement a wide variety of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian entrees, or even as a stand-alone snack to curb those cravings. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe can be prepared quickly, making it a go-to option for busy nights. Plus, the use of minimal oil ensures that it’s a much healthier alternative to typical fried potatoes while still delivering on flavor and texture.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to make the best WW Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges, providing useful tips, nutritional details, and additional customization ideas to suit your preferences.

Ingredients:

For the Potato Wedges:

  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated for better texture and flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic (fresh or jarred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Optional:

  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (for a bit of zest)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4):

  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • SmartPoints (WW): 5 SmartPoints per serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

  1. Wash and Peel (Optional) the Potatoes: Begin by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Scrub them to remove any dirt or impurities. While peeling is optional, keeping the skin on adds extra fiber and helps the wedges hold their shape while baking. If you prefer skinless wedges, you can peel the potatoes before cutting them.
  2. Cut the Potatoes into Wedges: Cut each potato into 8 wedges, making sure to slice them evenly for uniform cooking. To do this, slice the potato in half lengthwise, and then slice each half into 4 wedges. The size of the wedges can vary depending on your preference, but aim for pieces that are about 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick at their widest point.
  3. Soak the Potatoes (Optional): Soaking the potato wedges in water for 30 minutes to 1 hour is an optional step that helps remove excess starch and results in crispier potato wedges. After soaking, be sure to dry the potatoes completely with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before proceeding.

Step 2: Seasoning the Wedges

  1. Toss the Wedges with Olive Oil and Spices: Place the potato wedges into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and toss them gently to coat evenly. The olive oil is essential for helping the spices adhere and ensuring the wedges become crispy in the oven.
  2. Add the Garlic Powder and Spices: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt over the wedges. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the potatoes again until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix. This will ensure that every wedge is full of flavor.

Step 3: Baking the Potato Wedges

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the potato wedges get crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
  2. Arrange the Wedges on a Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick baking mat to prevent the wedges from sticking. Spread the seasoned potato wedges out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure that the wedges are not overlapping, as this will prevent them from crisping properly.
  3. Bake the Wedges: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. After 15 minutes, flip the wedges to ensure even cooking. Continue baking for the remaining time, or until the wedges are golden brown and crispy on the edges. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your wedges and the specific oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end.

Step 4: Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Topping

  1. Melt the Garlic Butter: While the potato wedges are baking, prepare the garlic Parmesan topping. In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
  2. Add Parmesan Cheese and Parsley: Once the garlic is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. The warmth from the garlic oil will help melt the cheese, allowing it to form a flavorful topping for the wedges.
  3. Optional Lemon Zest: For a fresh burst of flavor, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over the garlic Parmesan mixture before topping the wedges. This adds a light, citrusy contrast to the savory richness of the cheese and garlic.

Step 5: Assembling the Potato Wedges

  1. Coat the Wedges with the Garlic Parmesan Topping: Once the potato wedges are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Immediately drizzle the garlic and Parmesan mixture over the hot potato wedges. The heat will help the cheese adhere to the potatoes, giving them a savory and indulgent flavor.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the baked garlic Parmesan potato wedges with extra chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant finish. If you like a bit of heat, you can also sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately while the wedges are hot, and enjoy!

Step 6: Optional Dipping Sauce

  1. Prepare a Dipping Sauce (Optional): If you’d like to add an extra touch to your baked potato wedges, prepare a simple dipping sauce. Mix together some low-fat sour cream with a teaspoon of fresh chopped chives or parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also try making a low-carb ranch dressing or use a light ketchup for dipping.

Tips for the Best WW Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges:

  1. Cut Evenly: Make sure all the potato wedges are about the same size. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispy at the same rate. You can use a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer for consistent results.
  2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread the wedges out in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they will steam rather than crisp up. Use two baking sheets if necessary to give the wedges plenty of space.
  3. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly and can affect the final result.
  4. Soak for Extra Crispiness: While optional, soaking the potato wedges before baking helps remove some of the starch, leading to crispier wedges. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning and baking.
  5. Add a Smoky Flavor: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor to these wedges. If you prefer a different smoky spice, try adding chipotle powder or smoked salt for an interesting twist.

Health Benefits:

These WW Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and overall health. The use of olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while the Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory taste without loading up on extra calories.

The recipe is also lower in calories and fat compared to typical restaurant-style fries, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying side dish without compromising their health goals.

SmartPoints Breakdown (WW):

  • Total Calories (per serving): 160 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • SmartPoints (WW): 4 points per serving

For those following the WW (Weight Watchers) program, these Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are a great addition to your meal plan. At just 5 SmartPoints per serving, they provide a tasty, low-cost option that fits well into your daily points allowance without leaving you feeling deprived.

Conclusion:

These WW Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges are the perfect side dish for anyone looking for a healthier, low-calorie alternative to traditional fries. With the combination of crispy, golden wedges and the irresistible flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or alongside a main course, they’re versatile, satisfying, and full of flavor.

The recipe is easy to follow, and with simple substitutions, you can customize the seasoning to suit your personal preferences. Plus, with a SmartPoint value of just 5 per serving, you can indulge in this delicious side dish without any guilt. Enjoy your baked potato wedges guilt-free and savor every bite!