How to Make a Hasselback Potato
Hasselback potatoes are a delightful and visually appealing side dish that turns an ordinary potato into an extraordinary culinary experience. This unique preparation method allows for crispy edges and a tender middle while also providing opportunities for flavor experimentation. Let’s dive into why hasselback potatoes are worth making and how you can recreate this dish at home.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to try making hasselback potatoes. For one, they are remarkably versatile; you can customize the toppings and seasonings to suit your taste. They also make an impressive addition to any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. Additionally, the unique slicing technique gives them an appealing look that can wow your guests, making your culinary skills shine without requiring extensive cooking experience. Plus, they offer a delicious way to elevate the humble potato, showcasing its natural flavors while adding a crunchy texture.
How to Make Hasselback Potato
Making hasselback potatoes is simple and fun! Follow the steps below to create your own.
Ingredients:
- 2 russet potatoes (medium, about 6" in length)
- 1 tbsp bacon fat or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp herbs of choice (suggested: thyme, parsley)
- 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil for basting
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, parchment paper, or a silicone mat. Alternatively, use a baking stone if you have one.
- Rub the potatoes all over with bacon fat or olive oil, then sprinkle them with kosher salt.
- Slice off a thin portion on one side of each potato and set it aside. This provides a stable base for your potato to rest on.
- Place the potato on the flat cut side, then position chopsticks or wooden spoons lengthwise on either side of the potato. These will act as guides to prevent you from cutting all the way through.
- Make 1/8" thick slices along the potato, cutting down to the chopsticks or wooden spoons. This method ensures that your slices fan out without completely separating.
- Once sliced, lay the potato flat side down on a lined baking tray. Then place the fan-sliced potato cut side down on top of the slice; this will help the potato fan out beautifully when baked.
- Mince your herbs (thyme or parsley work well) and mix them with the melted butter or olive oil, adding any additional seasoning you enjoy.
- Lightly brush the mixture over the potato, ensuring you get in between the slices. Season with kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, or any seasoning of your choice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, baste the potatoes with any remaining butter mixture and continue baking for another 20 minutes. The potatoes should turn crispy and golden brown.
- Top with any leftover butter and sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Hasselback Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy content, providing a fluffy interior. You can also experiment with Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor.
- Slice Carefully: Use chopsticks or wooden spoons to avoid cutting completely through the potato. This technique is crucial for achieving the perfect hasselback shape.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasonings and herbs. Roasted garlic, paprika, or even cheese can enhance flavor dramatically.
- Make Them Ahead of Time: You can prep the potatoes a few hours before baking. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Experiment with Toppings: Once you master the basic recipe, consider topping your potatoes with ingredients like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crispy onions for added flavor and texture.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Ovens can vary; keep an eye on your potatoes in the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t overcook.
Flavor Variations for Hasselback Potatoes
- Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes: Add shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) in between the slices during the last 10 minutes of baking for a deliciously cheesy version.
- Garlic and Herb: Mix minced garlic with the butter or olive oil before basting, and use rosemary or oregano as your herbs. This adds a savory depth to the dish.
- Spicy Hasselback Potatoes: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the herbs for a spicy twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped Hasselback Potatoes: Wrap strips of bacon around the potato slices before baking for an indulgent treat.
- Mushroom and Spinach: After baking, top the potatoes with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions for Hasselback Potatoes
Serving hasselback potatoes is an excellent opportunity for creativity. They pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes:
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a balanced meal.
- Seafood: Pair with baked salmon or garlic shrimp for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Options: Enjoy with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a healthy vegetarian meal.
- Weekend Brunch: Serve as a delightful side to eggs and a fresh fruit salad for a satisfying brunch experience.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hasselback Potatoes
If you have leftover hasselback potatoes, here’s how to properly store them:
- Refrigeration: Allow the cooked potatoes to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Freezing: While freezing is not recommended for freshly cooked hasselback potatoes due to texture changes, if you feel you must, wrap individual potatoes tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They’ll keep for about a month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven, but expect some textural changes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQ About Hasselback Potatoes
Can I use other types of potatoes for hasselback?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are commonly used, you can experiment with Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different potatoes may require slight adjustments.
How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Make sure to cut the slices uniformly and baste well with oil or butter, which helps in even cooking. Utilizing a consistent baking temperature and keeping an eye on them during the last few minutes will also help achieve even browning.
Are hasselback potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! Hasselback potatoes inherently contain no gluten, making them a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, as long as you’re using gluten-free toppings.
What herbs work best for flavoring hasselback potatoes?
Herbs like thyme, parsley, rosemary, and sage work beautifully with hasselback potatoes. Feel free to mix and match according to your preference or what you have available!
Can I make hasselback potatoes in advance?
While they are best served fresh, you can prepare the potatoes by slicing and seasoning them in advance, storing them in the fridge until you are ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
Hasselback potatoes are an exciting and delicious way to enjoy this versatile tuber. With their attractive appearance and customizable flavors, they can quickly become your go-to side dish for any meal. Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and techniques to create your own delicious batch, why not give it a try? Your family and friends will surely be impressed, and you’ll enjoy every crispy, buttery bite! Happy cooking!
Print
Hasselback Potato
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Hasselback potatoes are a delightful and visually appealing side dish, featuring crispy edges and a tender middle, perfect for customization.
Ingredients
- 2 russet potatoes (medium, about 6″ in length)
- 1 tbsp bacon fat or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp herbs of choice (suggested: thyme, parsley)
- 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil for basting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Rub the potatoes with bacon fat or olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Slice off a thin portion on one side of each potato to create a stable base.
- Place the potato on the flat cut side, using chopsticks or wooden spoons as guides to prevent cutting all the way through.
- Make 1/8″ thick slices down to the chopsticks, ensuring the potato fans out.
- Lay the potato flat side down on a lined baking tray.
- Mince the herbs and mix with melted butter or olive oil; brush over the potato, seasoning in between slices.
- Bake for 30 minutes, baste the potatoes, and bake for an additional 20 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Top with leftover butter and fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize toppings and seasoning, and enjoy with a variety of main dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
