These garlic-infused Hasselback potatoes are a delicious and visually appealing side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their crispy, golden exterior and tender interior, these potatoes are enhanced by the rich flavor of garlic, butter, and herbs. The thin slits in the potatoes allow for the garlic to infuse into every bite, creating a savory and aromatic experience. The combination of olive oil, melted butter, and fresh parsley adds depth and freshness, making these potatoes an irresistible addition to any plate. Whether you’re serving them alongside roasted chicken, steak, or as a standalone snack, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 potatoes, cut halfway through to insert garlic
- 4 cloves of garlic, sliced
- 70g (3 oz) butter, melted
- 2 tbsp oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- Salt, pepper, oregano (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (370°F).
- Slice the potatoes halfway through, creating thin, even slits, but be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Insert thin slices of garlic into the slits of each potato.
Seasoning and Baking: 4. Place each garlic-filled potato onto a piece of tinfoil large enough to wrap them. 5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. 6. Spread or brush the potatoes with half of the melted butter and oil mixture. 7. Wrap the potatoes loosely in the tinfoil.
First Bake: 8. Bake the potatoes at 190°C (370°F) for 25 minutes.
Second Bake: 9. After the first 25 minutes, remove the tinfoil, baste the potatoes again with the remaining butter and oil mixture. 10. Place the potatoes back in the oven and bake uncovered for another 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Garnish: 11. Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. 12. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- With Roasted Chicken or Steak: These garlic-infused Hasselback potatoes make a perfect side dish for a hearty protein like roasted chicken or steak.
- With Sour Cream or Garlic Aioli: Serve with a side of sour cream or garlic aioli for dipping to enhance the flavor.
- Indulgent Version: Top with grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) and bake for a few more minutes for a cheesy, indulgent twist.
- With Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
The Origins and Popularity of Hasselback Potatoes
Hasselback potatoes, named after the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, were first introduced in the 1950s. The dish became popular due to its visually striking appearance and the wonderful texture achieved by thinly slicing the potatoes, allowing the garlic, butter, and seasonings to infuse into each slit. The technique of slicing the potatoes halfway through before baking is believed to have been inspired by the traditional Swedish method of preparing potatoes for roasting, but it quickly became a beloved recipe across the world.
Since then, Hasselback potatoes have become a favorite side dish for many, particularly during holiday dinners, family gatherings, and BBQs. Their versatility allows for a wide range of flavor combinations, from classic garlic and butter to more indulgent versions topped with cheese, herbs, or bacon. The crispy edges combined with the tender center make them a truly irresistible treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These garlic-infused Hasselback potatoes are easy to prepare, but they look and taste like they took a lot of effort. The thin slits create a crispy texture on the edges while keeping the interior soft and fluffy. The garlic slices, infused with butter and oil, bring out a rich flavor that permeates each potato, making every bite savory and satisfying. The addition of fresh parsley provides a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the dish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, these potatoes are sure to impress.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While potatoes are often considered a starchy food, they are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. The olive oil used in this recipe provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the butter adds a rich flavor and small amounts of beneficial fat. Garlic has been shown to support immune health, reduce inflammation, and offer potential cardiovascular benefits. The addition of fresh parsley offers antioxidants and vitamins, making this dish a flavorful, nutritious side.
Serving Suggestions of This Recipe
These garlic-infused Hasselback potatoes are a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- With Grilled Meat: They make an excellent side for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork.
- With Fish: Pair with grilled or baked fish, such as salmon or trout, for a lighter meal.
- For a Vegetarian Meal: Serve with roasted vegetables and a side of quinoa or rice for a complete vegetarian dinner.
Tips
- Slice Evenly: To ensure the potatoes cook evenly, make sure the slits are uniform in size and spaced evenly apart.
- Pre-Cook the Potatoes: If you want to save time, you can parboil the potatoes for 10 minutes before slicing and baking.
- Add More Herbs: Feel free to add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for added flavor.
- Use a Sharp Knife: Be careful when slicing the potatoes halfway through; a sharp knife will help create even slits.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes: Top the potatoes with shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) during the second bake for a cheesy, indulgent version.
- Bacon-Topped Hasselback Potatoes: Add crumbled bacon to the potatoes before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
- Spicy Hasselback Potatoes: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the seasoning mixture for a bit of heat.
- Vegan Version: Swap out the butter for vegan butter and skip the cheese for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
These garlic-infused Hasselback potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Crispy, buttery, and full of flavor, they make a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual night in, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. With the versatility to customize with different seasonings and toppings, these potatoes are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when ready to serve. -
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for a sweeter, slightly different flavor. -
How can I make these potatoes crispier?
For extra crispiness, you can increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F) during the second bake. -
Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?
Yes, vegetable oil or avocado oil can be used as alternatives to olive oil. -
Can I make these potatoes spicier?
Yes, add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning for a spicy kick. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results. -
Can I add cheese to the potatoes before the first bake?
Yes, you can sprinkle some cheese between the slits before the first bake if you prefer to have it melted within the potatoes. -
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use vegan butter and skip the cheese for a dairy-free version of this dish. -
Can I freeze these potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the baked potatoes. Just allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. -
What should I serve with these potatoes?
These potatoes go great with roasted meats, fish, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.