Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges are a tasty twist on a classic favorite. These wedges are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated with a blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese that gives them a rich, flavorful kick. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory topping, making every bite feel special.
I love making these wedges when I want a snack that feels a little fancy but is super easy to whip up. I usually toss the sweet potato slices in olive oil, sprinkle on plenty of garlic and Parmesan, and pop them in the oven until they’re golden and fragrant. The smell that fills the kitchen is one of my favorite parts—it’s like the whole house is getting a cozy hug.
These wedges work great as a side dish for dinner or as a shareable treat at gatherings. I sometimes serve them alongside a simple green salad or with a little creamy dip to balance the flavors. No matter how I enjoy them, they always disappear fast, which says a lot about how delicious and comforting they are!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These give the recipe its natural sweetness and soft texture inside. If you prefer, you can substitute with regular potatoes for a less sweet but still tasty version.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong, delicious flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work too, just use about 1 teaspoon instead of fresh.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty touch that makes the wedges special. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Olive Oil: I like olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but you can use avocado or vegetable oil as substitutes.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky taste, but regular paprika or chili powder works if you want a bit of heat or just color.
How Can I Make My Sweet Potato Wedges Crispy on the Outside?
Getting perfectly crispy wedges takes a few tricks:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized wedges so they cook uniformly.
- Coat them well with olive oil; don’t skimp, as oil helps the crispness.
- Spread wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
- Bake at a high temperature like 425°F to get a nice golden crust.
- Flip the wedges halfway through cooking to brown both sides evenly.
Following these tips will give you wedges with crispy edges and a tender inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a large, rimmed one helps the wedges cook evenly and catch drips.
- Parchment paper – keeps wedges from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – where you’ll toss the wedges with oil and spices for even coating.
- Sharp knife – to cut the sweet potatoes into clean, even wedges.
- Spatula or tongs – for flipping wedges halfway through baking without breaking them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to make it vegan while keeping a cheesy flavor.
- Add rosemary or thyme for extra herb aroma that pairs well with sweet potatoes.
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick you can control.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky crunch, perfect when you want a meaty twist.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wedges:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, so roughly 35 to 40 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy side dish or snack you can whip up any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix Sweet Potatoes with Flavors:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic. Add your sweet potato wedges, tossing them well to coat all sides with the garlic-oil mixture.
3. Season the Wedges:
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the coated wedges. Toss everything again so each wedge is nicely seasoned.
4. Bake Until Crispy and Tender:
Spread your wedges out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down if you can. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them once halfway through cooking so they get crispy on both sides.
5. Add Parmesan and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the wedges from the oven. While still hot, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over them and toss gently to coat the wedges with the cheese. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, tasty finish.
6. Serve Warm and Enjoy:
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges warm, as a delicious side or snack. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potato Wedges for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before tossing with oil and seasonings to prevent sogginess. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I Make These Wedges Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake the wedges, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute and offers a cheesy flavor. You can also omit it entirely and add extra garlic or herbs for flavor.
How Can I Make These Wedges Spicier?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder with the paprika and other spices. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for a tasty kick!
