Hasselback Potatoes

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With their signature accordion-style slices, Hasselback Potatoes are a show-stopping side dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Each potato is sliced thinly, almost all the way through, then roasted until the edges turn irresistibly crisp while the insides stay soft and fluffy. Bathed in garlic butter and garnished with fresh rosemary and flaky salt, they deliver both texture and flavor in every bite.

Originally hailing from Sweden, these potatoes have earned global popularity for good reason. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a holiday table, Hasselback Potatoes strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and visual appeal. Their versatility also allows for endless variations—think cheese-stuffed slices or a final drizzle of herbed oil.

Why You’ll Love This Hasselback Potatoes Recipe

• Visually stunning yet simple to make
• Crispy edges with a tender, buttery center
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings, cheeses, or toppings
• Pairs beautifully with proteins or works as a standalone star

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Hasselback Potatoes requires only a few essential tools, but each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect result:

• Sharp knife or Hasselback slicer: For making thin, even cuts that don’t go all the way through the potato. Consistency in slicing ensures even cooking and that beautiful fanned-out look.
• Wooden spoon handles or chopsticks: Placed on either side of the potato, they prevent your knife from slicing all the way down.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for spreading melted butter or oil into the crevices.
• Baking dish or sheet pan: A rimmed baking sheet holds the potatoes securely and catches any drippings for easy cleanup.

Preparation Tips

Choose medium-sized, oval potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best results. Rinse and dry thoroughly so the skins can crisp up in the oven. When slicing, go slowly to avoid cutting through entirely—using chopsticks or wooden spoons as a guide helps immensely. After slicing, gently fan out the sections with your fingers to allow butter or oil to seep in. Baste more than once during roasting to build layers of flavor and achieve that golden, crispy finish.

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Ingredients for this Hasselback Potatoes Recipe

• 4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (plus extra whole cloves for roasting if desired)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Flaky sea salt, for finishing

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Ensure skins are clean and dry for maximum crispiness.

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Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Place a potato between two chopsticks or wooden spoon handles to prevent cutting all the way through. Slice the potato crosswise into thin slices, about 1/8 inch apart. Repeat with the remaining potatoes. Take your time to ensure uniform cuts.

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Step 3: Infuse with Butter and Garlic

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary. Using a pastry brush, generously coat each potato, ensuring the mixture seeps into the crevices. Place potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.

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Step 4: Bake and Baste

Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove from the oven and brush more of the butter mixture over the potatoes, allowing the layers to open more as they cook. Add optional whole garlic cloves around the pan for extra flavor. Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown, and the center is fork-tender.

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Step 5: Final Touches

Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. Add flaky sea salt and garnish with extra rosemary sprigs. Serve warm as a side or enjoy them solo as a delicious snack.

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Notes

Hasselback Potatoes are as versatile as they are beautiful. You can flavor them with herbs like thyme or sage, stuff slices with cheese or bacon, or even go sweet with a honey-butter glaze. The key to making them stand out lies in the layering of flavors and consistent basting to build that irresistible crispy texture. Also, don’t shy away from a generous sprinkle of flaky salt just before serving—this elevates the taste immensely.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Cutting through the potato completely: Use chopsticks or spoon handles to avoid slicing all the way down.
• Skipping the drying process: Damp skins won’t crisp up well in the oven.
• Uneven slicing: Inconsistent thickness can lead to uneven cooking.
• Not basting enough: Skipping mid-bake brushing will result in less flavor and a drier texture.
• Crowding the pan: Potatoes need space for hot air to circulate and ensure even crisping.

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Storage Instructions

Allow leftover Hasselback Potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness. Microwaving is quicker but won’t give the same texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per potato (based on medium Yukon Gold with butter, oil, and garlic):

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure I don’t cut through the potato?

Place chopsticks or wooden spoon handles on either side of the potato as a guide while slicing.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can slice and prep the potatoes a few hours ahead and keep them in cold water to prevent browning. Dry them thoroughly before baking.

What type of potato is best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes both work well—Yukon Gold for creaminess, Russet for crisp edges.

Can I use different herbs or spices?

Absolutely! Thyme, sage, oregano, smoked paprika, or even chili flakes add great flavor.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

No, keeping the skin on helps create a crispy texture and adds extra nutrients.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with vegan butter or use only olive oil.

Why didn’t my potatoes fan out?

They may not have been sliced thin enough, or not basted enough during roasting to encourage separation.

How can I make them more filling?

Tuck slices of cheese or pre-cooked bacon between the cuts before the final bake.

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Conclusion

Hasselback Potatoes deliver stunning presentation and rich, comforting flavor with minimal ingredients and effort. Once you master the slicing technique and understand the importance of basting, this dish becomes an easy favorite in your rotation. Whether you’re elevating a holiday spread or simply spicing up dinner, these golden, crispy potatoes won’t disappoint.

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