Hasselback Potatoes: The Complete Guide to a Crispy, Buttery Indulgence
If you haven’t experienced Hasselback potatoes yet, you’re in for something special. These elegantly sliced, oven-roasted potatoes hail from Sweden and have captivated the culinary scene for a good reason. Boasting crispy, golden edges and a soft, buttery center, Hasselback potatoes bring together the finest elements of baked potatoes and potato chips into one refined dish.
Whether you’re planning a festive celebration or simply wish to enhance your weeknight meal, Hasselback potatoes serve as a standout side that’s surprisingly straightforward to create once you get the slicing technique down. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the essentials needed to whip up perfect Hasselback potatoes at home.
What Are Hasselback Potatoes?
Hasselback potatoes were first created at the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, during the 1950s. The dish consists of slicing whole potatoes into thin, uniform slits without cutting all the way through, then roasting them until the layers spread out and turn crispy. The outcome is a potato that is crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Adore Them
– Crispy edges reminiscent of potato chips
– Soft, fluffy interior akin to a baked potato
– Customizable with limitless toppings
– Visually appealing and perfect for gatherings
How to Slice Hasselback Potatoes
The secret to Hasselback potatoes is in the slicing. Here’s how to get it right:
1. Select medium-sized potatoes (about ½ pound each) for uniform cooking.
2. Create a stable base by slicing a thin portion off the bottom of each potato so that it rests firmly on your cutting board.
3. Position the potato between two wooden chopsticks or spoons. These serve as guards to keep you from slicing all the way through.
4. With a sharp chef’s knife, make thin cuts (about ⅛ inch thick) across the potato, stopping when you reach the chopsticks.
5. If you happen to slice all the way through, there’s no need to fret—simply tuck it back in.
Pro Tip: Keep the tip of your knife on the cutting board and slice at a slight angle for improved control.
How to Prepare Hasselback Potatoes
Once your potatoes are sliced, the rest is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for hassle-free cleanup.
– Allow your butter to soften on the counter.
Step 2: Bake the Potatoes
– Place the sliced potatoes on the baking sheet.
– Bake for 1 hour without any oil or butter. This allows the potatoes to start crisping without burning the fat.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter
– In a small bowl, mash softened butter with minced garlic and salt.
– Split the mixture into two portions for later use.
Step 4: Apply the First Layer of Butter
– After the initial baking, take the potatoes out of the oven.
– Spread half of the butter mixture over the tops of the potatoes, using a pastry brush to get between the layers.
– Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 5: Apply the Second Layer of Butter
– Remove the potatoes again and spread the remaining butter mixture over the tops.
– Allow it to melt into the layers for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
– Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
– Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, chopped chives, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits.
Tips for Success
– Choose potatoes of similar size for even cooking.
– Don’t skip the initial plain bake—it is critical for texture.
– Use a pastry brush to aid in distributing the butter evenly between the slices.
– Garnish right before serving for the best presentation.
Make It Vegan
To create dairy-free or vegan Hasselback potatoes, simply swap the butter with a plant-based alternative such as Miyoko’s Creamery vegan butter.
Serving Suggestions
Hasselback potatoes are incredibly adaptable. Serve them alongside:
– Roast chicken or turkey
– Grilled steak or salmon
– Vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or mushroom stroganoff
– A crisp green salad for a lighter meal
More Tempting Potato Recipes
If you’re a fan of potatoes, give these other favorites a try:
– Classic Baked Potatoes
– Creamy Mashed Potatoes
– Crispy Roasted Potatoes
– Potato Gratin
Final Thoughts
Hasselback potatoes might appear fancy, but with a few simple techniques, they’re easy enough for any home cook to master. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just because, they’re sure to impress. So grab your potatoes, sharpen your knife, and prepare to enjoy one of the most delightful ways to cook this humble vegetable.