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If you’re craving a show-stopping side dish that blends crispy edges, tender potato slices, and a burst of fragrant herbs, this Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. Every crispy fold of the potato gets infused with garlicky goodness, fresh thyme and rosemary, and a luscious sprinkling of Parmesan to take it to that next level. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easier to make than it looks, perfect for elevating any weeknight dinner or special meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but pack a punch when combined. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures, bringing out the best in the potatoes with minimal effort.
- 4 medium russet potatoes: Ideal for their starchy texture which crisps up beautifully on the outside while staying fluffy inside.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter: This fat helps crisp up the slices and carries the flavors of the herbs deep into each cut.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an irresistible aromatic punch that fills your kitchen and every bite with rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Offers a subtle earthiness that complements potatoes perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary): Brings a fragrant pine-like note that stands out beautifully against the garlicky base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that amplifies all the natural flavors and herbs.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Melts into a golden crust that adds nutty richness and an irresistible savory finish.
How to Make Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so that it’s nice and hot, which helps the potatoes develop a golden, crispy exterior while cooking through evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Then, carefully slice them into thin 1/8-inch cuts, making sure not to cut all the way through—keep the base intact so the potato fans out beautifully during baking. Using chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato is a clever way to prevent slicing too deeply.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place your prepared potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The parchment helps ensure a non-stick surface for easy cleanup and helps the bottoms crisp perfectly without burning.
Step 4: Add Oil or Butter
Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter generously over the potatoes. Use a brush or your fingers to coax the fat into every slice—that’s where much of the magic happens, helping the edges crisp while infusing flavor deep inside.
Step 5: Season with Garlic and Herbs
Sprinkle the minced garlic, fresh thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly over the potatoes. Make sure to get the seasoning into each fold to maximize flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let the potatoes bake for around 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll want to watch for a perfect golden color and crispy edges—that’s when they’re ready to come out.
Step 7: Finish with Parmesan (Optional)
If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top of the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt and form a beautifully savory, crispy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender potato inside.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and serve the Hasselback Potatoes warm. A final garnish of fresh herbs can add an extra pop of color and flavor at this stage.
How to Serve Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, extra thyme, or rosemary sprigs bring a vibrant freshness and a lovely visual appeal to your plate. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can also elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted or grilled meats, such as juicy steaks or lemon herb chicken. They also complement vegetarian mains like stuffed bell peppers or a vibrant kale salad for a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning party presentation, serve them on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dips, such as garlic aioli or sour cream chive dip. You can even add crispy bacon bits or a dollop of crème fraîche on top for an indulgent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, hasselback potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently to preserve that crisp outer layer as much as possible.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal due to the texture changes it can cause, you can freeze cooked potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray before transferring them to a sealed bag. This helps you have a convenient option to re-crisp in the oven later.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your potatoes is in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method revitalizes their crispiness much better than the microwave, which often results in sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are preferred for their fluffy interior and crisping ability, but Yukon Golds can also work and will offer a creamier texture and buttery flavor.
Do I have to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs provide the brightest flavor, but dried thyme and rosemary work well in a pinch. Just remember to adjust quantities and sprinkle earlier during baking to release their aromas.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
Parmesan is optional but highly recommended for its savory, nutty depth and lovely golden crust it creates. You can omit it if you want a lighter or dairy-free option.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
About 1/8-inch thick slices are ideal to get that crispy, fanned effect while ensuring the potato cooks evenly and stays tender inside.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
You can prep and slice the potatoes a few hours beforehand, keeping them in cold water to prevent browning until you’re ready to bake. For best results, bake soon after preparation.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite ways to enjoy potatoes. It’s impressive enough for guests but simple enough for any meal, delivering an irresistible crispy and tender bite every time. So go ahead and treat yourself to this cozy, flavorful side dish—you won’t regret it!
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Hasselback Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Hasselback Potatoes are a perfect side dish for any meal. Thinly sliced and baked with fragrant garlic, thyme, rosemary, and olive oil or butter, they offer a beautiful presentation and delightful layered texture. Optionally topped with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor, these potatoes are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes
Seasonings and Toppings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into thin slits about 1/8-inch thick, being careful to keep the base intact so the slices hold together. Use chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potatoes to prevent cutting all the way through.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the sliced potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Add oil or butter: Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the potatoes, making sure it seeps into the slices to enhance flavor and crispiness.
- Season generously: Sprinkle minced garlic, fresh or dried thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper over the potatoes, ensuring the seasonings penetrate between the potato layers.
- Bake: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until they become golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Add Parmesan (optional): If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking to add a delicious cheesy crust.
- Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs to brighten the dish.
Notes
- Use chopsticks or wooden spoons to avoid slicing all the way through the potatoes.
- Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy texture that crisps well in the oven.
- Feel free to substitute herbs with your favorites such as sage or oregano for a different flavor twist.
- To make this dish vegan, use olive oil instead of butter and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Serving suggestion: pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish
