These Extra Crispy Oven Baked Potatoes are a dream! They’re golden, crunchy on the outside, and fluffy inside, making them perfect as a side dish or a snack.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist that crispy goodness. I can barely make it to the table before munching on a few! Next time, I’m definitely making extra! 😄
Cooking these potatoes is super easy. Just toss them in some oil and seasonings, pop them in the oven, and wait for the magic to happen. A great way to impress without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for baking due to their starchy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using sweet potatoes for a different flavor and added nutrients.
Olive Oil: This gives the potatoes a crisp finish. You can substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil for a more neutral taste.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add loads of flavor. If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika is a delicious alternative. Experiment with other spices like Italian seasoning or chili powder!
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a kick, but it’s totally optional. You could use red pepper flakes for a different heat level or leave it out for a milder taste.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle at the end boosts flavor nicely. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Extra Crispy?
Achieving a crispy outside while keeping the inside fluffy is the ultimate goal. Here are some essential tips to make sure your potatoes are perfectly crispy:
- Dry Them Well: After washing, make sure to pat your potatoes dry. Extra moisture can lead to steaming, which prevents crispiness.
- Spread Them Out: Give each wedge space on the baking sheet. Too many potatoes crowded together trap steam and stop them from getting crispy.
- High Heat: Baking at 425°F (220°C) is key. Higher temperatures help to crisp the exterior faster.
- Flip Halfway: Turning the potatoes halfway through baking ensures even crispness on both sides.
- Broiling Finishing Touch: A quick broil at the end gives an extra crunch — just watch closely to prevent burning!
How to Make Extra Crispy Oven Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake, plus an optional 2-3 minutes for broiling. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy these crispy and delicious potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help your potatoes get extra crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Next, wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly to get rid of any dirt. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a towel. This is important to help them crisp up in the oven.
3. Cut the Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to cut the potatoes. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. After that, cut each half into 4 to 6 wedges, depending on how big your potatoes are. Make sure the wedges are fairly uniform in size for even cooking!
4. Season the Potato Wedges:
In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Stir everything together until the potato wedges are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet. You can line the sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Make sure there’s some space between each wedge to allow them to get crispy.
6. Bake the Potatoes:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 30-35 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to make sure they crisp up nicely on both sides.
7. Optional Broiling:
If you want an extra crunch, you can switch your oven to broil and keep an eye on the potatoes for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just make sure they don’t burn!
8. Garnish and Serve:
When the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you wish. Serve hot and enjoy your wonderful extra crispy oven baked potatoes!
## FAQ Section for Extra Crispy Oven Baked Potatoes
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness and crispiness, you can use Yukon Golds or red potatoes as well. Just keep in mind that different varieties may have varying cooking times. Check for doneness by piercing a wedge with a fork — it should be tender inside.
How Can I Make These Potatoes Spicy?
If you want to turn up the heat, simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños to the mix. You could also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha or a spicy ranch dressing for an added kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes ahead of time! Cut and season them, then place on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
