Are you ready to elevate your potato game? Hasselback potatoes are the perfect blend of crispy edges and soft, buttery insides. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to wow your guests or simply craving something different, this recipe has you covered. With a few simple ingredients and some quick preparation tips, you’ll be serving up restaurant-quality potatoes in no time. Let’s dive into this Hasselback potatoes recipe, which is guaranteed to become your new go-to!
What Are Hasselback Potatoes?
Hasselback potatoes originated from a Swedish restaurant, Hasselbacken, in the 1950s, hence the name. This visually stunning dish involves thinly slicing potatoes almost all the way through, allowing them to fan out as they bake. The result is a potato that’s crispy on the outside while remaining tender and fluffy on the inside.
This dish not only looks impressive but is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. From butter and garlic to herbs and cheese, there are endless ways to customize Hasselback potatoes according to your taste.
Ingredients for Hasselback Potatoes
The beauty of Hasselback potatoes lies in their simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, and you can always switch things up based on what’s available in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes (or Yukon gold for a creamier texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (for garnish)
Optional Add-ons:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Sour cream or crème fraîche (for serving)
- Chopped chives or parsley
- Bacon bits
- Grated cheddar cheese
How to Make Hasselback Potatoes: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Start by thoroughly washing the potatoes to remove any dirt from the skin, as you’ll be keeping the skin on. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Slice the Potatoes
Here comes the key to making the perfect Hasselback potatoes. Place each potato on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make thin vertical slices across the potato, about 1/8 inch apart. Tip: To avoid cutting all the way through, place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato to act as stoppers. The slices should remain attached at the bottom, allowing the potato to fan out slightly during cooking.
3. Create the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Mix well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed.
4. Coat the Potatoes
Brush each potato generously with the garlic butter mixture, making sure it seeps into the crevices between the slices. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: If you want extra flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese or cheddar between the slices at this stage.
5. Bake the Potatoes
Place the potatoes on a lined baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, depending on their size. Every 20 minutes, baste the potatoes with more of the garlic butter mixture to enhance crispiness and ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are crispy and golden brown, while the insides are soft and tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar over the top.
Serve your Hasselback potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra richness, and don’t forget to sprinkle some chives or bacon bits for that final flourish!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Hasselback Potatoes
- Potato Selection: Russet potatoes are best for crispy results, while Yukon gold potatoes offer a creamier texture.
- Uniform Slices: Try to make your slices as even as possible to ensure consistent cooking. A mandoline slicer can help if you have one.
- Infused Butter: Infusing your butter with garlic or herbs before brushing it onto the potatoes will give them a more robust flavor.
- Cheese Lovers: If you adore cheese, add grated Parmesan or cheddar between the slices during the last 15 minutes of baking. This gives you delicious cheesy layers with every bite.
- Crispier Edges: For super crispy edges, brush the potatoes with a mixture of butter and oil several times during baking.
Variations on Hasselback Potatoes
While this recipe focuses on the classic butter, garlic, and herb combination, Hasselback potatoes can be customized endlessly:
- Loaded Hasselback Potatoes: Top with bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives for a loaded baked potato twist.
- Herb and Garlic Hasselback Potatoes: Add rosemary and thyme between the slices for a fragrant dish.
- Spicy Hasselback Potatoes: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes: Stuff the slices with a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere for a decadent version.
- Vegan Hasselback Potatoes: Use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute, and skip the cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
What to Serve with Hasselback Potatoes?
Hasselback potatoes are versatile enough to complement various main dishes. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Grilled Steak: The crispy texture of the potatoes pairs beautifully with juicy, flavorful steak.
- Roast Chicken: The potatoes soak up the juices from a well-roasted chicken, creating a delicious combo.
- Salmon: The buttery potatoes complement the delicate, flaky texture of roasted or grilled salmon.
- Vegetarian Dinner: Pair with a hearty salad or grilled vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Why You Should Try This Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s visually stunning, packed with flavor, and easy to make, Hasselback potatoes are the answer. Not only do they make an impressive side dish for special occasions, but they’re also simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Their crispy texture, coupled with the creamy inside, makes them an instant hit at any dinner table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with toppings, Hasselback potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your household.