Cracked Black Pepper Potato Wedges

Name: Cracked Black Pepper Potato Wedges
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love making Cracked Black Pepper Potato Wedges for gatherings or movie nights at home. The combination of crispy edges and the bold flavor of cracked black pepper creates an irresistible snack that’s satisfying to munch on. Preparing them is incredibly easy, and the aroma filling the kitchen as they bake is simply delightful. They’re perfect served with dips like sour cream or aioli, and they always receive rave reviews from family and friends. Let’s dive into this easy yet delicious recipe!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:17:28.099Z

When I first tried making potato wedges, I toyed around with various seasonings until I discovered the perfect blend. Cracked black pepper brings an exhilarating kick that elevates the humble potato wedge into something special. I remember serving these at a dinner party and was surprised at how quickly they disappeared!

One of the key tips I learned during my experimentation is to soak the potato wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes before baking. This step helps to release some of the starch and results in a much crispier end product. Trust me, it's a game-changer!

Why You Will Love These Wedges
Bold black pepper kick that makes each bite exciting
Perfect blend of crispy texture and fluffy potato inside
Versatile enough to pair with your favorite dips

The Importance of Soaking

Soaking the potato wedges in cold water is an essential step that greatly enhances their texture. This process helps to remove excess starch, which can lead to a gummy texture when baked. By soaking for at least 30 minutes, you allow the potatoes to hydrate, ensuring they become light and crispy in the oven. If time is short, even a quick 10-minute soak can make a difference, though the full 30 minutes is ideal for maximum crunchiness.

After soaking, it’s crucial to thoroughly pat the wedges dry. Any moisture left on the surface can create steam during baking, preventing those desired crispy edges from forming. A simple kitchen towel works well for this job, or you can use a salad spinner to effectively remove water. This tip will help ensure your potato wedges bake up beautifully golden and crispy every time.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For this recipe, using medium-sized russet potatoes is key. Russets have a high starch content, which is perfect for achieving that fluffy interior and crispy exterior. Waxy potatoes, like red or new potatoes, won’t give you the same satisfying texture, so it’s best to stick with russets for optimal results. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider sweet potatoes for a different twist; they’ll bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish, but may require slightly less cooking time due to their softer texture.

When selecting potatoes, look for firm ones without any blemishes or sprouts. The fresher the potatoes, the better the flavor and texture will be. If you plan to make a large batch, consider buying potatoes closer to their harvest season, as they are often more flavorful and will cook more evenly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Cracked Black Pepper Potato Wedges are a fantastic base for various flavor combinations and dips. For an elevated experience, try serving them with homemade garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo for those who enjoy a little heat. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving for added freshness and color. Feel free to mix and match dips to suit your gathering’s vibe or the season.

If you’re feeling creative, you can easily experiment with different seasonings. Try adding grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for a kick. Alternatively, you can toss the baked wedges in your favorite sauce afterward, such as buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce, for a fun spin on this classic dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to adapt this recipe to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious potato wedges:

Ingredients

4 medium-sized russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt, to taste

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make crispy potato wedges!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your potato wedges:

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise, then slice each half into wedges.

Soak the Wedges

Place the potato wedges in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes. This helps achieve the perfect crispiness.

Preheat and Season

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drain the potato wedges, pat them dry, and toss in a bowl with olive oil, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Make sure they are evenly coated.

Bake the Wedges

Spread the seasoned wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

And just like that, your delicious potato wedges are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try mixing different spices like cayenne pepper or dried herbs to customize the flavor of the wedges. Experimenting with seasonings can turn this simple recipe into a delightful snack every time!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your potato wedges aren’t turning out crispy, the most common culprit is moisture. Make sure you soak and dry the wedges well, and use a hot enough oven. If you find they’re not browning nicely, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking for that golden finish, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Another issue could be uneven cooking. To achieve consistent results, ensure that the wedges are cut to a uniform size—about 1-inch thick is ideal. Using a sharp knife and a steady hand will help maintain even slices. If your oven has hot spots, rotating the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time can also promote even browning.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While these potato wedges are best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, make sure they are completely cooled to prevent moisture buildup, which could make them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back their crispy texture.

If you want to make these ahead of time, you can par-bake them before your event. Simply follow the instructions up to the baking step, then cool and store the pre-cooked wedges in the fridge. When ready to serve, just increase the baking time slightly during your final bake to ensure they’re heated through and crispy again.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for gatherings. Simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. If scaling up, ensure you have a large enough baking sheet to accommodate the wedges in a single layer, as overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping. You can bake in batches, making sure to keep the first batch warm in a low oven while the second batch cooks.

For smaller occasions, if you only need a single serving, you can cut the ingredients in half easily. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller quantities might cook a bit faster. Keep an eye on them and use visual cues like golden edges to determine doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes can be used for a sweet and savory flavor, though cooking time may vary slightly.

→ How can I make the potatoes even crispier?

Soaking the potato wedges in cold water is key, but also ensure they are well-drained and dried before tossing them in oil.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these wedges?

These wedges are delicious with sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy ketchup for an exciting kick!

→ Can I make these wedges in advance?

You can prep the wedges ahead and store them in the fridge. Bake them fresh just before serving for the best texture.