Meet your new go-to showstopper: Hasselback Potatoes. These crispy, golden beauties look stunning with their accordion-like slices, but they’re every bit as delicious as they are eye-catching. Originating from Sweden, this classic takes the humble potato and transforms it into a side that’s crunchy on the outside, creamy inside, and packed with garlicky, herby flavor. If you’re after a side dish that earns oohs and aahs and is still surprisingly easy to pull off on a weeknight, Hasselback Potatoes are the answer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Hasselback Potatoes lies in simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in the most irresistible way. Each element plays an important part in creating that perfect taste, texture, or pop of color that will have everyone diving in for seconds (and thirds).
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Golds have the perfect starch content for crisp edges and tender centers—choose medium-sized for even cooking.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Delivers richness and helps crisp up every slice; you can use either for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the potatoes with a mouthwatering aroma that you’ll notice as soon as you open the oven.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the earthy flavors of the potatoes—it really makes every bite pop.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
- Dried thyme or rosemary (optional): A pinch of herbs adds a layer of savory, aromatic complexity—try one or both for a classic flavor twist.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For those moments when you want your Hasselback Potatoes to be extra indulgent, a sprinkle of cheese in the final minutes adds a crispy, savory finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A handful of bright green parsley cut right before serving brings freshness and a beautiful burst of color.
How to Make Hasselback Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s piping hot for maximum crispiness. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
Step 2: Wash and Dry the Potatoes
Give your potatoes a good scrub under running water to remove any lingering dirt, then pat them completely dry with a clean towel. Dry skin is key for getting those delicious crispy edges that make Hasselback Potatoes so irresistible.
Step 3: Slice the Potatoes Hasselback-Style
This step feels a little fancy but is actually super simple: Place two chopsticks or wooden spoons along the sides of each potato as you slice thinly across the width. The utensils act as guards, stopping your knife from going all the way through, so your potatoes fan out beautifully without falling apart.
Step 4: Make the Flavor Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs (if using). This aromatic mixture is both a flavor powerhouse and the secret to those crispy, golden slices you’ll crave.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Generously brush the flavor mixture over and between every potato slice. Be liberal—the more it gets into those nooks and crannies, the better. Arrange the potatoes on your prepared baking sheet, pop them in the oven, and let them work their magic for 45 to 55 minutes. For extra crispiness, remember to baste them once or twice during baking.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
About 10 minutes before the potatoes are done, scatter the grated Parmesan cheese over the top if you’re using it. Return them to the oven and bake until the cheese melts into a gloriously crispy topping and the potatoes reach irresistible golden-brown perfection.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the Hasselback Potatoes are out of the oven, shower them with freshly chopped parsley for a final touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Hasselback Potatoes
Garnishes
Take your Hasselback Potatoes over the top with a final flourish. Try freshly chopped chives, a dollop of cool sour cream, or a scattering of crispy bacon bits for loaded potatoes everyone will rave about. Don’t be shy with the parsley—it really amps up the freshness and visual appeal!
Side Dishes
If you’re serving these as the star side, round out your table with a crisp green salad, juicy roast chicken, or buttery seared steak. Hasselback Potatoes are so versatile they’ll pair delightfully with everything from simple grilled veggies to decadent holiday mains.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your plating: Stand your potatoes upright for height, tuck a little cheese or sautéed spinach between slices, or even offer a DIY toppings bar at your next gathering so guests can personalize their perfect bite. Hasselback Potatoes are a true canvas for your culinary creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the potatoes cool fully, then wrap them individually or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Their wonderful texture holds up well, so you’ll have a handy side ready for quick meals.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze baked Hasselback Potatoes! Let them cool completely, wrap tightly in foil, and tuck into a zip-top bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for one to two months. For best results, thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For crispiness, reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until hot and crunchy again. If you’re short on time, a few minutes in the microwave will do, though the skin may not be as crisp as straight-from-the-oven Hasselback Potatoes.
FAQs
How do I keep from slicing all the way through the potatoes?
A simple trick: position chopsticks, wooden spoons, or even thick skewers on either side of the potato before cutting. The knife will stop at the right spot every time, giving perfect Hasselback slices without worry.
Can I make Hasselback Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can slice and even season the potatoes a few hours before baking. Just keep them in water (to prevent browning) if you aren’t cooking right away, and brush with oil right before they go into the oven.
What potatoes are best for Hasselback Potatoes?
Russet and Yukon Gold varieties are ideal. Russets get extra crispy with a fluffy interior, while Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture and rich flavor—either choice yields delicious results!
Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, chili flakes, or your favorite seasoning blends. Hasselback Potatoes are endlessly customizable to suit your mood and the rest of your meal.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are ready when the outside is golden and crisp, and a knife slides easily through the center. If you’re adding cheese, wait until it’s bubbly and golden on top for the best finish.
Final Thoughts
Trust me: once you try Hasselback Potatoes, you’ll wonder how you lived without them all these years. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a festive feast, these crispy, beautiful spuds are bound to become a favorite at your table. Give them a go, have fun with the toppings, and savor every golden bite!
Print
Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Hasselback Potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with flavor. A perfect side dish for any occasion, these fancy-looking potatoes are surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
Seasoning Mixture:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes. Slice each potato thinly across the width, stopping just before cutting all the way through.
- Season the potatoes: Mix olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Brush the mixture over the potatoes, ensuring it gets between the slices.
- Bake the potatoes: Place the potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 45–55 minutes, basting occasionally. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese in the last 10 minutes if desired.
- Finish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, fan out the slices halfway through baking.
- Try topping with sour cream, chives, or bacon bits for loaded Hasselback potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
