Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges
Highlighted under: Fast & Simple Meals
I absolutely adore these Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges! They’re a game changer when it comes to snacks or sides. Every bite is packed with a zesty kick from the buffalo sauce and cooling creaminess from the ranch. The crispy exterior makes them irresistible, and they pair perfectly with a savory dip. This recipe is super easy to whip up for gatherings or for a cozy night at home. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one wedge!
As I crafted my Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges, I kept thinking about how the spicy and creamy flavors complement one another. The first time I made these, I marinated the potatoes in the buffalo sauce before baking, and it took the taste to another level. I realized that the secret is in letting the wedges soak up all that flavor before they hit the oven.
I’ve experimented with serving these potato wedges alongside blue cheese to really enhance the buffalo flavor. Surprisingly, adding just a sprinkle of fresh chives elevates the dish without being overwhelming. Trust me, these wedges are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and super simple to prepare!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden-brown wedges that are perfectly seasoned
- Zesty buffalo flavor balanced with creamy ranch
- Versatile as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer
The Perfect Bake
When baking the potato wedges, achieving that perfect balance between crispiness and tenderness is key. Setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) allows for high heat, which gives the exterior that desirable golden-brown finish. Be sure to flip the wedges halfway through baking for even cooking. They should be crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. If you notice they aren't browning as expected, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end can help achieve that perfect crust.
Using parchment paper on your baking sheet not only makes cleanup easier, but it also helps the wedges cook evenly. If you prefer, you can lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray to further ensure they don’t stick. For added flavor, consider sprinkling a little extra garlic or onion powder directly onto the wedges before baking.
Ingredient Insights
The potatoes you choose make a significant difference in the final texture and taste of the dish; russet potatoes are ideal for their high starch content and fluffy interior. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, try using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes may require a few extra minutes in the oven due to their denser texture.
Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are critical for the flavor profile of these wedges. If you want to adjust the spice level, you can use a milder hot sauce or even a spicy ranch to control the heat. For a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing; it adds creaminess while cutting down on calories.
Serving Suggestions
These Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges can serve as a delicious centerpiece for game day, or as a casual side for a family dinner. To amp up the flavors further, consider serving them with a side of blue cheese dressing or a spicy aioli. Pairing them with a chilled beverage like a craft beer can elevate the whole experience, making it more enjoyable and memorable.
If you're preparing for a gathering, try making a double batch; they not only disappear quickly but also hold up well for serving. You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheating in the oven for a few minutes ensures that they regain their original crispiness, so you can enjoy the flavors again without any sacrifice in texture.
Ingredients
For the Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste preference!
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the potatoes
Wash and cut the potatoes into wedges. Leave the skins on for extra crunch.
Season the wedges
In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Bake the wedges
Spread the wedges evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Garnish and serve
Once done, remove from oven and drizzle with ranch dressing. Garnish with chives if desired and serve hot.
For an extra kick, serve these with some additional buffalo sauce on the side!
Pro Tips
- For the best results, choose potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly. You can also customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips
For those looking to prep ahead, the potato wedges can be cut and tossed in the olive oil and seasonings up to a day in advance. Storing them in the fridge keeps them fresh, but try to keep the buffalo sauce separate until you're ready to bake. This prevents the potatoes from becoming soggy and helps maintain their crispiness during baking.
Another option is to prepare the wedges completely and then freeze them before baking. Spread the seasoned, uncooked wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for optimal results.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your potato wedges aren’t becoming crispy, the most common culprits are overcrowding the baking sheet or not using enough oil. Ensure your wedges are in a single layer and have room for air to circulate. More oil helps in achieving that coveted crispy texture; don’t be afraid to coat them well, but avoid soaking them.
In contrast, if your wedges turn out too soggy or soft, they may have baked for too long or been missed during the flipping step. Keep an eye on the wedges in the last few minutes of baking. You want to pull them out just as the edges start to turn golden, rather than waiting until they are completely brown and overcooked.
Variations to Try
Feeling creative? Switch up the seasoning! You could add parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to enhance the flavor. For an even zippier taste, try incorporating a bit of cayenne pepper into the batter mix. If you're a fan of herbs, adding dried oregano or thyme can lend a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
If you want to switch gears entirely, consider using the same spice blend and techniques with other vegetables. Cauliflower florets or zucchini spears can mimic the texture and will absorb the buffalo sauce beautifully. They also bake quickly, so adjust your baking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can work well! They will add a different flavor and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
→ Can I make these wedges ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the wedges and season them, then refrigerate. Bake them fresh when you're ready to serve.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
→ What can I serve with Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges?
They pair beautifully with a variety of dips like blue cheese, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa!
Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges
I absolutely adore these Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges! They’re a game changer when it comes to snacks or sides. Every bite is packed with a zesty kick from the buffalo sauce and cooling creaminess from the ranch. The crispy exterior makes them irresistible, and they pair perfectly with a savory dip. This recipe is super easy to whip up for gatherings or for a cozy night at home. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one wedge!
What You'll Need
For the Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash and cut the potatoes into wedges. Leave the skins on for extra crunch.
In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Spread the wedges evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Once done, remove from oven and drizzle with ranch dressing. Garnish with chives if desired and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For the best results, choose potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly. You can also customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g