Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges

Name: Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges because they combine the perfect blend of heat and creaminess, making them an ideal snack or side dish. When I first made these, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily they come together. The spice from the buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with the tangy ranch, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite. It's a delightful balance that brings everyone back for seconds. I often serve them during game nights, and they never fail to impress my friends and family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:06:28.764Z

When I first crafted the Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges, the combination of the crispy exterior and the tender inside blew me away. The technique I use involves baking the wedges at a high temperature, which ensures they achieve a perfect crunch while retaining fluffy interiors. I prefer to use a mix of spices to enhance the flavor, and the key is to toss them generously in both the buffalo sauce and ranch before baking.

Every time I make these wedges, I experiment with the level of heat to find that ideal balance. I’ve discovered that using a good-quality hot sauce makes a world of difference. To elevate the flavor even further, I also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving. Trust me; this little touch adds a vibrant freshness that complements the dish flawlessly.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy texture that's addictive and satisfying
A zesty kick from the buffalo sauce balanced by creamy ranch
Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just as a cozy snack

Mastering the Perfect Wedge

To achieve the perfect potato wedge, it's crucial to cut the russet potatoes uniformly. Aim for wedges that are approximately 1-inch thick, as this thickness allows for a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. If your wedges are cut too thin, they might turn out overly crispy and even burn during baking. Conversely, larger wedges may take longer to cook, compromising that sought-after crispiness.

Another technique to enhance the crispiness is to soak the potato wedges in cold water for at least 30 minutes before seasoning. This process draws out excess starch, resulting in a crunchier texture once baked. After soaking, be sure to dry the wedges thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel — moisture can create steam in the oven and prevent crisping.

Buffalo Sauce Versatility

The buffalo sauce is the star here, delivering that essential kick. You can adjust the heat level by choosing a milder or hotter sauce. If you prefer a customizable option, try making your own buffalo sauce by mixing hot sauce with melted butter. This not only gives you control over the heat but also adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce. Don't hesitate to experiment with adding flavors like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for an extra dimension.

If you're looking to make this dish even creamier, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the ranch dressing. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a protein boost. Keep in mind that the thickness of your ranch dressing can affect how well it adheres to the wedges, so opt for a brand you love or make your own to get just the right consistency.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serve these Buffalo Ranch Potato Wedges immediately for the best texture, but they can also be a make-ahead option. Just bake the wedges, let them cool completely, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and re-crisp in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through. This method keeps them crunchy without making them soggy.

For gatherings, consider offering a dipping bar! Alongside the buffalo ranch sauce, serve options like blue cheese dressing, guacamole, or a spicy sriracha mayo. This not only elevates the snacking experience but also caters to varying palates. If you're in the mood for variation, try adding toppings like shredded cheese or jalapeños before the final bake for an even heartier treat.

Ingredients

For the Wedges

4 large russet potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Ranch Sauce

1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Combine all ingredients and you're ready to bake!

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into wedges and place them in a large bowl.

Season the Wedges

Drizzle olive oil over the wedges and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until all wedges are 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 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Sauce

While the potatoes are baking, mix together the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing in a bowl. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on your heat preference.

Toss and Serve

Once the potato wedges are cooked, remove them from the oven and immediately toss them in the buffalo ranch sauce. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy this irresistible dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or top with crumbled blue cheese before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your potato wedges aren’t crispy enough, it might be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. Ensure the wedges are spread out in a single layer; this allows hot air to circulate evenly. If you find they’re still lacking in crunch after the baking time, switch to broil for a couple of minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Another problem could be the seasoning. If you find the wedges too bland after baking, it’s often due to not seasoning adequately before cooking. Don’t be shy with the salt and spices; they enhance the natural potato flavor and contribute to overall savoriness. Taste testing a wedge after the initial bake, but before sauce application, can help adjust any necessary seasonings.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If you’re making enough for a party, simply double or triple the amount of potatoes and the sauce ingredients. Use multiple baking sheets to ensure the wedges still cook evenly — overcrowding can lead to soggy potatoes, as mentioned earlier. Just keep an eye on the baking time since larger batches may require slightly longer to get that crispiness.

If you wish to create a smaller batch, you can also cut down the ingredients but remember that the same ratio of sauce to wedges applies. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 tablespoon of sauce per wedge for appropriate flavor balance. This allows you to maintain that delicious zesty kick even in a smaller serving size.

Flavor Variations

One simple yet impactful flavor variation involves adding grated Parmesan cheese to the seasoning mix for the wedges. Incorporating about 1/4 cup of cheese will create a savory, umami-rich crust once baked. If you're a fan of bold flavors, experiment by adding a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the buffalo ranch sauce for a smoky taste.

For a more refreshing twist, you can sprinkle the finished wedges with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or zest before serving. This brightens up the flavors and adds a delightful contrast to the rich creaminess of the ranch dressing. It can also be a great complement if you add avocado slices for a richer feel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these wedges ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato wedges and season them in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake them when you're ready.

→ What other sauces can I use?

Feel free to mix different sauces like BBQ or hot honey for a unique flavor!

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a nice sweetness that pairs well with the spicy sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.