What Are Hasselback Potatoes?

Hasselback potatoes originated in Sweden and were first served at the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm. The signature look comes from thinly slicing the potato without cutting all the way through, allowing it to fan out during baking. This method creates perfectly crisp edges while keeping the inside soft and creamy.

Unlike traditional baked or mashed potatoes, Hasselback potatoes have more surface area for flavors to develop. The result? A crispy, cheesy, and buttery masterpiece in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never made Garlic Butter Hasselback Potatoes before, here are a few reasons to add them to your recipe collection:

• Crispy and Tender Texture – The unique slicing technique creates crispy ridges on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
• Packed with Flavor – Fresh garlic, herbs, butter, and cheese infuse each layer for maximum taste.
• Elegant Yet Easy – While they look impressive, these potatoes are actually simple to prepare with minimal ingredients.
• Versatile – They pair well with almost any main dish, from steak and roasted chicken to grilled vegetables and seafood.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the seasonings, cheese, or herbs to match your personal preferences.

The Secret to Perfect Hasselback Potatoes

Achieving crispy edges, a soft center, and maximum flavor requires a few key techniques:

• Use a Chopstick or Skewer for Even Slices – Placing a chopstick or wooden skewer alongside the potato helps prevent cutting all the way through, keeping the slices connected at the base.
• Choose the Right Potatoes – Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are the best options, as they hold their shape well and develop a perfect crisp texture.
• Baste with Butter Multiple Times – Brushing the garlic herb butter over the potatoes at different stages of roasting ensures they absorb maximum flavor.
• Add Cheese Towards the End – Inserting cheddar slices and Parmesan after the initial roasting ensures the cheese melts perfectly without burning.
• Roast at High Heat – Baking at 425°F (220°C) allows the potatoes to crisp up beautifully while remaining tender inside.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the garlic butter, sage, and thyme combination is already delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize these Hasselback potatoes:

• Add More Cheese – Try adding Gruyère, mozzarella, smoked Gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
• Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika for a spicy touch.
• Crispy Bacon – Crumbled bacon bits between the slices add extra crunch and a smoky flavor.
• Caramelized Onions – Sautéed onions can be stuffed into the potato slices for a sweet and savory twist.
• Dijon Mustard Butter – Mixing a little Dijon mustard into the butter enhances the depth of flavor.
• Lemon Zest – A bit of grated lemon zest on top adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich butter and cheese.

Best Dishes to Serve with Garlic Butter Hasselback Potatoes

These potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, making them an ideal side for different cuisines and occasions. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Steak – A perfectly cooked ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin complements the buttery richness of the potatoes.
• Roast Chicken – The crisp texture of Hasselback potatoes pairs well with juicy, herb-roasted chicken.
• Seafood – Serve alongside grilled salmon, shrimp scampi, or garlic butter lobster for a luxurious meal.
• Vegetarian Entrées – Pair with stuffed bell peppers, roasted mushrooms, or a creamy pasta dish for a hearty vegetarian meal.
• Holiday Feasts – These potatoes are a fantastic addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner, pairing beautifully with roast turkey, prime rib, or honey-glazed ham.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftover Garlic Butter Hasselback Potatoes, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in the Oven – To bring back the crispiness, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
• Use an Air Fryer – Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a quick and crispy finish.
• Microwave (Not Recommended) – While possible, microwaving can make the potatoes soggy instead of crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hasselback potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Slice and partially roast the potatoes in advance, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven and add the butter and cheese.

Do I have to use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes?
While these work best, you can also use red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.

What if my potatoes don’t fan out properly?
If the slices are too close together, use a fork to gently separate them before adding the butter and cheese.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Hasselback Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or a cozy family meal. With crispy edges, a tender center, and layers of garlicky, cheesy goodness, they offer a gourmet touch with minimal effort.

Once you try these buttery, flavorful potatoes, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So next time you need a side dish that’s both elegant and easy, give Garlic Butter Hasselback Potatoes a try—you won’t be disappointed!