The quest for the perfect savory side dish ends here. Hasselback potatoes bring a visually appealing aesthetic and a deliciously satisfying taste that make them a focus-worthy addition to any meal. These thin slices of potato, seasoned to perfection, bake to a golden crisp, creating a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
I remember the first time I made these potatoes. It was a cozy Sunday afternoon, the kind where the house smells of warm comfort food. My grandmother always said, “The love is in the details,” and slicing those potatoes just right brought her words to life. Each cut was like a small homage to her meticulous cooking style, and the satisfaction of serving a dish that the whole family enjoyed was unparalleled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hasselback potatoes are a show-stopping side dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. The accordion-like appearance not only ensures a crispy finish but also allows for more flavor absorption. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Best of all, they’re easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices, making them adaptable to any main course.
Ingredients Notes
Start with medium-sized Russet potatoes; their starchy consistency makes them ideal for this recipe. For a healthier twist, sweet potatoes are an excellent alternative. Use a sharp knife to ensure uniform slices, and if you’re worried about cutting through, place a chopstick on each side of the potato to prevent that from happening. Don’t skip on quality olive oil and fresh herbs, as they play a crucial role in the overall flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Place a potato between two chopsticks and slice thinly without cutting all the way through. Repeat with the remaining potatoes.
Step 3
Brush the olive oil over the sliced potatoes, ensuring it drips down into the cracks. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
Step 4
Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45–60 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Halfway through, remove them from the oven and brush again with olive oil for extra crispiness.
Step 5
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, place cooled potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispness. For freezing, allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegan option, swap out the butter for plant-based alternatives. Add a kick of flavor with crushed red pepper flakes, or create an herb-infused version with rosemary and thyme. For a cheesy variation, layer slices of sharp cheddar in between the potato cuts. If you’re aiming for something healthier, sweet potatoes provide a nutritious alternative without compromising taste.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect alongside grilled steak or roasted chicken, Hasselback potatoes also make a great addition to holiday spreads. Serve with a side of sour cream or aioli for dipping. They’re equally delightful as a standalone appetizer at a party, where guests can appreciate their unique appearance and flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prevent potatoes from turning brown during preparation? To keep sliced potatoes from browning, submerge them in a bowl of cold water. This helps in removing excess starch and prevents discoloration. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly before applying oil and baking.
Why are my Hasselback potatoes not crispy? To achieve crispy potatoes, make sure the oven is properly preheated to the right temperature. Brush the potatoes with a generous amount of oil, and consider baking on the top rack where the heat circulates more effectively. If you want even more crunch, an extra brushing of oil halfway through cooking will help.
Can I prepare Hasselback potatoes in advance? Yes, you can prepare them up to a day in advance. Complete steps up to slicing and submerge in cold water. Drain and dry thoroughly before proceeding with seasoning and baking. This makes them an excellent make-ahead option for dinner parties or gatherings.
Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 whole russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and scrub the potatoes clean. Slice thinly without cutting all the way through, leaving the bottom intact.
- Brush each potato with olive oil, making sure to get in between the slices. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 60 minutes until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter before serving.
