Sliced baked potatoes, often referred to as Hasselback potatoes, are a stunningly simple yet delicious way to bake potatoes. They get their name from the Hasselbacken Hotel in Stockholm, Sweden, where they were first served. The potatoes are sliced thinly but not all the way through, allowing the edges to crisp up beautifully in the oven while the inside remains tender. Here’s a straightforward recipe to make them:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), finely chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and dry the potatoes. To make slicing easier and ensure you don’t cut all the way through, place a potato between two chopsticks or wooden spoons. This will stop the knife from cutting entirely through the potato.
- Make thin slices across the top of each potato, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart, cutting down to the chopsticks or wooden spoons.
- Season the Potatoes:
- Brush each potato all over with melted butter or olive oil, ensuring some gets between the slices.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and herbs (if using), making sure some of the seasonings get between the slices as well.
- Bake:
- Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the outside is crispy and the inside is tender. Halfway through the baking time, brush the potatoes again with more butter or olive oil to encourage crisping.
- Add Cheese (Optional):
- If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
- Serve:
- Serve the sliced baked potatoes hot from the oven. They’re delicious on their own or topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and additional fresh herbs.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings based on your preferences. Smoked paprika, cajun seasoning, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a nice kick.
- Crispier Potatoes: For even crispier edges, you can fan the slices slightly apart before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: These potatoes are versatile and can accompany anything from roasted meats to grilled vegetables, making them perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Enjoy your deliciously crispy and tender sliced baked potatoes, a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!