Loaded Nacho Potato Wedges
Highlighted under: 5-Ingredient Fix Recipes
I love how Loaded Nacho Potato Wedges bring together all my favorite flavors into one crispy, cheesy delight. These wedges are not just a side dish; they can stand alone as a hearty snack or party platter. With every bite, you'll be greeted by the crunch of seasoned potatoes, creamy cheese, and zesty toppings that elevate the dish to a whole new level. Whether I'm hosting friends or just indulging after a long day, these wedges are a go-to favorite that never disappoints.
While experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to take classic nachos to the next level by combining them with perfectly baked potato wedges. The result was a crunchy, cheesy explosion of flavors that my family instantly adored. I'll never forget the moment I topped the wedges with fresh jalapeños and avocado, creating a harmony of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Each step was tailored to enhance the textures and flavors. I learned that baking the potato wedges until golden brown is key to achieving that ideal crunch, which complements the melty cheese and toppings perfectly. This recipe is now a staple at our gatherings, and it always leaves my guests raving about it!
Why You'll Love These Loaded Nacho Potato Wedges
- Crispy potato wedges loaded with cheesy goodness
- Versatile toppings for everyone’s taste preferences
- Perfect for game day or casual gatherings
Perfecting the Wedge
When preparing your potato wedges, the choice of potato is key. Large russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy nature, which lends itself to a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. For optimal flavor, be generous with your seasoning; the garlic powder and paprika not only enhance taste but also contribute to a splendid color. Don’t skip the olive oil, as it ensures an even crispiness and helps the spices adhere to the potatoes.
After cutting the potatoes into wedges, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes before seasoning. This step removes excess starch, resulting in an even crispier texture when baked. Remember to dry the wedges thoroughly before tossing them with oil and spices to avoid steaming rather than baking. If you want extra crunch, consider dusting them lightly with cornstarch before the oil and spices.
Layering the Flavors
The beauty of Loaded Nacho Potato Wedges lies in the layering of flavors. After baking the wedges to a golden brown, melt the cheese to create a gooey, comforting base that binds the toppings together. Use a good quality cheddar, as it melts beautifully and provides a sharp contrast to the toppings. If you're looking for a twist, you can mix in pepper jack cheese for an added kick.
To prevent any sogginess, add the fresh toppings immediately after pulling the wedges from the oven. The heat from the cheese will slightly warm the sour cream and fresh salsa, melding the flavors while keeping each ingredient distinct. If you love a bit of acidity, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top before serving can elevate the taste even further.
Ingredients
For the Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh salsa
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into wedges. In a large bowl, toss the wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Bake the Wedges
Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Add Toppings
Once the wedges are baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and immediately top with sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, green onions, and diced avocado. Serve hot and enjoy your loaded nacho potato wedges!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked ground beef or chorizo as a topping. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add black beans for a heartier version.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), store the potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and bake the wedges on a lined baking sheet for about 10 to 15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it will render them soggy.
For longer-term storage, consider freezing the baked wedges. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Creative Variations
While the classic toppings are delicious, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste! Consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon or chorizo for a meaty twist. Alternatively, black beans and corn can introduce a nice texture and additional flavor, making the dish heartier and suitable for a more filling meal.
For a lighter option, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess without excess calories. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese that melts well in place of cheddar. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as some alternative cheeses may have varying levels of salt.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare the wedges in advance?
Yes, you can cut and season the potatoes a few hours ahead. Just keep them in water to prevent browning and bake them when you're ready.
→ What can I substitute for cheese?
You can use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
→ How do I make these healthier?
Try using an air fryer with less oil or baking them without oil for a lower-calorie version.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked wedges, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Loaded Nacho Potato Wedges
I love how Loaded Nacho Potato Wedges bring together all my favorite flavors into one crispy, cheesy delight. These wedges are not just a side dish; they can stand alone as a hearty snack or party platter. With every bite, you'll be greeted by the crunch of seasoned potatoes, creamy cheese, and zesty toppings that elevate the dish to a whole new level. Whether I'm hosting friends or just indulging after a long day, these wedges are a go-to favorite that never disappoints.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: 5-Ingredient Fix Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh salsa
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into wedges. In a large bowl, toss the wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Once the wedges are baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Remove from the oven and immediately top with sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, green onions, and diced avocado. Serve hot and enjoy your loaded nacho potato wedges!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding cooked ground beef or chorizo as a topping. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add black beans for a heartier version.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g