Listen, sometimes you just need that perfect bite—the kind that’s crispy, cheesy, garlicky, and loaded with smoky bacon goodness. That’s exactly what these Loaded Bacon Garlic Cheese Wedges bring to the table. We’re talkin’ crispy, seasoned potato wedges smothered in a rich, homemade cheese sauce, topped with crispy bacon, and finished with a little extra garlic kick. Whether you’re making these for game day, a family gathering, or just because you got a craving, this dish delivers on all levels. Let’s jump into this goodness!
Why You Should Make This Dish
If you love loaded fries but want something even better, these Loaded Bacon Garlic Cheese Wedges are the way to go. Here’s why:
- Flavor Explosion – Every bite has crispy potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, smoky bacon, and a touch of garlic. That’s a winning combo.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for game nights, BBQs, or family dinners. Everybody’s coming back for seconds!
- Better Than Takeout – Freshly made at home means you control the ingredients, flavors, and portion size. No soggy delivery fries here!
- Customizable – You can switch up the cheese, add extra toppings, or make it spicy. Options are endless.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps, straightforward ingredients, and restaurant-quality results. What’s not to love?
Ingredients
For the Wedges:
- 4 large gold potatoes (or any starchy potato)
- 4 cups boiling water
- 2 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 oz. cream cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ground mustard
- ¼ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Pinch of chili powder (optional for spice)
For the Toppings:
- 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (for extra kick)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
- Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges. Try to keep them evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Rinse and soak them in boiling water for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season and Coat
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, making sure each wedge gets evenly coated.
- Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Bake the Wedges
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cream cheese.
- Whisk in the milk and cornstarch mixture. Stir until thickened.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and seasonings, whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Load ‘Em Up
- Place the crispy potato wedges on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with the hot cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.
- Finish with melted butter, extra garlic powder, and chopped parsley.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Soaking the potatoes in hot water removes excess starch for a crispier bite.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the wedges space to crisp up.
- Use fresh-grated cheese for a smoother sauce (pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents).
- Want it spicier? Add cayenne or jalapeños.
- Extra crunch? Double coat the wedges with panko.
15 Variations to Try
- BBQ Style – Drizzle with BBQ sauce and add pulled pork.
- Buffalo Ranch – Toss in buffalo sauce and drizzle with ranch.
- Tex-Mex – Add taco seasoning and jalapeños.
- Loaded Chili Cheese – Top with chili and cheese.
- Philly Cheesesteak – Add shaved beef and grilled onions.
- Breakfast Style – Top with scrambled eggs.
- Pizza Wedges – Marinara, pepperoni, and mozzarella.
- Greek Style – Feta, olives, and tzatziki.
- Truffle Parmesan – Drizzle with truffle oil and add extra Parm.
- Cajun Style – Season with Cajun spice and andouille sausage.
- Buffalo Chicken – Toss in buffalo sauce and add shredded chicken.
- Pesto Parmesan – Drizzle with pesto.
- Hawaiian Style – Add ham and pineapple.
- Mushroom Swiss – Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
- Southwest Style – Corn, black beans, and chipotle mayo.
What to Serve with Loaded Bacon Garlic Cheese Wedges
- Grilled Burgers
- Smoked Ribs
- Fried Chicken
- BBQ Pulled Pork
- Hot Dogs
- Buffalo Wings
- Steak
- Brisket
- Grilled Corn
- Coleslaw
- Mac and Cheese
- Garlic Bread
- Beer or Lemonade
- Ranch or Chipotle Aioli
- Side Salad
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
- Freeze the baked wedges for up to a month and reheat at 400°F.
- Cheese sauce should be stored separately and reheated with a splash of milk.
How Much to Make for a Family Gathering?
- For 4–6 people, make one batch.
- For 8–10 people, double the recipe.
- For a big crowd, triple it and keep ‘em warm in the oven.
How Far in Advance Can I Make These?
- Bake the wedges ahead and reheat before serving.
- Make the cheese sauce in advance and warm it up with a splash of milk.
- Crisp the bacon and store separately.
Loaded Bacon Garlic Cheese Wedges
Crispy potato wedges loaded with melted cheese, smoky bacon, and savory garlic for the ultimate indulgent side. Perfect for game day, snacks, or a hearty side dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 large gold potatoes or any starchy potato
- 4 cups boiling water
- 2 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 oz. cream cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ground mustard
- ¼ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Pinch of chili powder optional for spice
- For the Toppings:
- 6 slices crispy bacon crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp melted butter optional, for extra richness
- ½ tsp garlic powder for extra kick
Instructions
- Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges. Try to keep them evenly sized for consistent cooking. Rinse and soak them in boiling water for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, making sure each wedge gets evenly coated. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cream cheese. Whisk in the milk and cornstarch mixture. Stir until thickened. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and seasonings, whisking until smooth.
- Place the crispy potato wedges on a serving platter. Drizzle with the hot cheese sauce. Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top. Finish with melted butter, extra garlic powder, and chopped parsley.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
