Get ready to delight your taste buds with a simple yet impressive side dish: Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan. These crispy, golden potatoes are sliced thinly to create an irresistible texture that crisps on the outside while staying tender inside. Infused with aromatic garlic and topped with nutty Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavor and crunch, making it the ultimate addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, perfect even for kitchen beginners.
- Flavor Explosion: Roasted garlic and sharp Parmesan create rich, savory layers that elevate plain potatoes.
- Perfect Texture: Crispy edges meet soft centers for a unique mouthfeel that never gets old.
- Visually Stunning: The fanned slices make for an elegant presentation that impresses guests.
- Versatile Side Dish: Complements everything from grilled meats to fresh salads seamlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan recipe plays a crucial role, from flavor to texture and color, keeping the dish delicious yet straightforward.
- Potatoes: Choose medium-sized, firm potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best slicing and roasting results.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a robust, aromatic punch that infuses deep into each potato slice.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated Parmesan delivers a sharp, salty topping that crisps beautifully when baked.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil ensures even roasting and adds a fruity, smooth richness.
- Butter: A little melted butter lends a luxurious, golden finish and enhances the garlic flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Optional rosemary or thyme brighten up the dish with fresh, earthy notes and color.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors and balance the richness.
Variations for Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs—these variations easily adapt the base recipe into something uniquely yours.
- Cheese Swap: Try sharp cheddar or pecorino for a different cheesy twist.
- Herb Blend: Add chopped parsley, chives, or oregano instead of rosemary for a fresh herb flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of spice.
- Vegan Option: Use olive oil only and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
- Stuffing Surprise: Slide thin slices of cooked bacon or caramelized onions between the cuts before baking.
How to Make Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes
Begin by washing and drying each potato thoroughly. Place the potato on a cutting board and slice thinly across the width, stopping about 1/4 inch from the bottom to keep slices attached for the signature “fan” look.
Step 2: Make the Garlic-Parmesan Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse of your dish.
Step 3: Season and Stuff
Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet. Carefully brush the garlic-Parmesan mixture between each slice, making sure the flavors seep deep into the cuts. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs you’ve chosen evenly over the potatoes.
Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Place the potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-60 minutes. Halfway through, baste more garlic-Parmesan mixture for that extra crunch and cheesiness.
Step 5: Final Touch
Once golden brown and tender, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
- Sharp Knife: Using a very sharp knife ensures clean, even slices and less chance of breaking the potato.
- Slice Thickness: Keep slices about 1/8 inch apart for perfect crispiness without falling apart.
- Potato Size: Choosing medium-sized potatoes makes slicing and baking easier and more even.
- Drain Moisture: Pat potatoes dry before slicing to help them crisp better in the oven.
- Baste Often: Reapplying the garlic-Parmesan mixture midway keeps the flavors vibrant and the crust crispy.
How to Serve Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Garnishes
Finish these potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for vibrant color and freshness. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory cheese and garlic.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are the perfect partner to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a colorful vegetable medley. Their rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying crunch complement both hearty proteins and fresh greens effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan on a large platter with a bowl of sour cream or aioli on the side for dipping. For a festive touch, tuck in slices of lemon or scatter pomegranate seeds around for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Hasselback Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slices may soften but will still hold their delicious flavor.
Freezing
While freezing is not ideal due to texture changes, you can freeze cooked potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat potatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it will make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work well and add a natural sweetness, but reduce baking time slightly and keep an eye on slices for tenderness.
How do I prevent the potatoes from falling apart?
Keep your slices thin and stop cutting about 1/4 inch from the bottom to ensure the potato stays intact when baking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Skip the butter and Parmesan, and use olive oil along with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor.
Is it necessary to baste halfway through baking?
Basting is highly recommended to keep the slices flavorful and crispy, but if short on time, brush once before baking for decent results.
How long should I bake the potatoes?
Baking time varies with potato size but generally is about 45-60 minutes at 425°F (220°C), until crisped on the edges and tender inside.
Final Thoughts
Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan are a game-changer when it comes to side dishes—easy to prepare, irresistibly flavorful, and stunning in appearance. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Give it a try and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!