Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges Recipe

Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick side dish. The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon pepper gives these roasted potato wedges a crispy, golden exterior with a soft, tender inside.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds small red potatoes, quartered into wedges
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
  2. Place the potato wedges in a large bowl. Add olive oil and toss to coat.
  3. Add the garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano, lemon pepper seasoning, and sea salt to the potatoes. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  4. Stand 4 potato wedges (equivalent to 1 potato) in each muffin slot of a muffin tin. This will help them cook evenly and get extra crispy.
  5. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes.
  6. Once the potatoes have cooked, turn the broiler on to high. Broil the potatoes for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the skins are crisp and golden while the inside remains tender.
  7. Remove from the oven and serve immediately for the best results.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 156
  • Total Fat: 2g (3% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 0g (2% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
  • Sodium: 270mg (12% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 30g (11% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 4g (7% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 19mg (21% DV)
  • Calcium: 17mg (1% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
  • Potassium: 832mg (18% DV)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your individual calorie needs.

The Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges Recipe is a modern twist on a classic comfort food, offering a simple yet innovative way to enjoy crispy, golden potato wedges. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings out the natural flavors of potatoes, enhanced by aromatic herbs and seasonings. The unique method of cooking in a muffin pan ensures that the wedges are evenly roasted, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. But beyond its deliciousness, this recipe has an interesting history and regional variations that are worth exploring.

History of Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges

The humble potato wedge has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Originating from the classic French "pommes frites," which are thin, fried potato strips, potato wedges have evolved into a popular snack or side dish worldwide. While potato wedges as we know them today began to gain popularity in the United States during the 1980s, the idea of roasting them in a muffin pan is a relatively modern innovation. The muffin pan technique, which was likely inspired by the concept of baking individual servings, helps to give each wedge a crispy edge and makes it a convenient, hands-off way to prepare a large batch.

Regional Features and Variations

Potatoes are grown and enjoyed across the globe, and various countries have their own takes on potato wedges. In the United States, roasted potato wedges are often seasoned with a blend of herbs, garlic, and sometimes cheese. In the United Kingdom, a variation known as "chips" is usually deep-fried, but some regional British recipes feature roasted wedges as a healthier alternative. Meanwhile, in Latin American countries like Mexico, potatoes are often seasoned with chili powder and lime, giving them a zesty twist. The muffin pan method, however, remains a relatively universal approach, especially in modern kitchens where roasting vegetables in specialized pans has become more common for convenience and even cooking.

What Sets This Recipe Apart?

While roasted potato wedges are a well-known dish, the Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges stand out because of the way they are cooked. Using a muffin tin to roast potatoes allows them to stand upright, ensuring that each wedge gets equal exposure to heat and the right amount of crispiness. This method also creates a visually appealing presentation, as each individual wedge takes on a slightly "cup-like" shape, which can help trap seasonings and juices for maximum flavor. Compared to traditional sheet pan roasted potatoes, the muffin pan method also allows for better portion control, as the wedges can be divided into smaller, more uniform servings.

Where is it Typically Served?

The Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges are incredibly versatile and can be served at almost any meal. They're a popular side dish for roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork, and they complement grilled dishes like burgers and steaks. In many homes, they are a go-to for family dinners or casual gatherings, as they are easy to prepare and can be customized with different seasonings. They're also a great choice for parties or barbecues, where guests can help themselves to a quick and satisfying snack. While typically an American favorite, variations of roasted potato wedges can be found worldwide, making them a universally loved dish.

Fun Facts

  • The muffin pan method was popularized by food bloggers and home chefs looking for an easy way to cook large batches of food while keeping portions controlled.
  • Potatoes were first domesticated by the indigenous people of the Andes mountains in South America around 7,000 to 10,000 years ago, long before they became a household staple in Europe and North America.
  • In the 1950s, the invention of the frozen potato wedge allowed people to enjoy this beloved snack without the need to peel or cut potatoes themselves. The muffin pan method brings back the hands-on approach to cooking.
  • In some parts of the world, potatoes are considered a symbol of prosperity and are a central part of both everyday meals and holiday feasts.

FAQ about Muffin Pan Roasted Potato Wedges Recipe

Yes, you can substitute small red potatoes with other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the potato variety and size.

Store any leftover roasted potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispness.

Yes, you can freeze the potato wedges after cooking. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Yes, you can make these potato wedges in an air fryer. Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. However, keep in mind that each oil has a different flavor profile, which may slightly alter the taste of the wedges.

To get crispy potato wedges, make sure to coat the potatoes evenly with oil and seasoning, and bake them on a rack or muffin pan to allow air circulation. Also, broiling them for the last few minutes helps to crisp up the skins.

Yes, you can use fresh herbs in place of dried herbs. Typically, you’ll need about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs. For example, use 1 1/2 teaspoons of fresh parsley instead of 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley.

To add heat to the potato wedges, you can incorporate spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili powder into the seasoning mix. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.

Yes, you can prepare the potato wedges ahead of time. After cutting and seasoning the potatoes, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

If the potato wedges are not cooking evenly, try rearranging them halfway through the baking process or flipping them to ensure all sides get crisp. If using a muffin tin, make sure the wedges are standing upright and not overcrowded.

Comments

Victoria Lopez

12/05/2023 08:16:02 AM

I substituted a tablespoon of Italian dressing for the usual olive oil and herbs, and it turned out absolutely delicious!

Donna Lee

10/26/2024 06:48:53 PM

Instead of baking them in muffin tins, I opted to use the air fryer. It worked wonderfully and the recipe can easily be adjusted to accommodate different crowd sizes.