Sliced Baked Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
Sliced Baked Potatoes are a comfort food classic that combines the crispiness of potato chips with the fluffiness of a baked potato. Often called Hasselback potatoes, these thinly sliced, oven-roasted potatoes are brushed with butter, seasoned with herbs, and baked until the edges are crispy and golden while the inside stays soft and tender. This dish is versatile—it can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course when topped with cheese, bacon, or sour cream.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
- ¼ cup crispy bacon bits (optional topping)
- Sour cream or ranch for serving (optional)
Instructions & Methods
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
- Place each potato on a cutting board between two wooden spoons or chopsticks.
- Slice the potato thinly (about ⅛ inch apart), cutting down until the knife touches the spoon handles—this prevents slicing all the way through.
Step 2: Seasoning
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter (or olive oil), garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Brush this mixture generously over and between the potato slices.
Step 3: Baking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, brushing with more butter halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.
Step 4: Optional Toppings
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheese between slices.
- Top with bacon bits, fresh parsley, or sour cream before serving.
History
The idea of Hasselback-style potatoes originated in the 1950s at the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden. The chef sliced the potatoes thinly but not all the way through, creating an elegant presentation that also allowed seasonings to seep into every crevice. Since then, the technique has spread worldwide, becoming a favorite in both fine dining and home kitchens.
Benefits
- Nutritious – Potatoes are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.
- Customizable – Works with countless toppings: cheese, herbs, bacon, or even chili.
- Elegant but Easy – Looks gourmet but requires simple steps.
- Comforting – Crispy and fluffy textures in one bite.
- Budget-Friendly – A simple dish made with affordable ingredients.
Formation
The dish is formed through thin slicing and high-temperature baking:
- The slices fan out, creating crispy edges.
- Butter or oil seeps between the layers, ensuring flavor inside and out.
- Heat caramelizes the potato edges, while the core remains tender.
Conclusion
Sliced Baked Potatoes are proof that with a little creativity, a simple potato can be transformed into a show-stopping side dish. Whether topped with cheese and bacon for indulgence or kept simple with herbs for elegance, they fit every occasion.
Lovers of Sliced Baked Potatoes
- Home cooks who love easy yet impressive recipes.
- Comfort food lovers who crave crispy and fluffy textures.
- Food stylists & entertainers who want dishes that look fancy with little effort.
- Kids and families who enjoy customizable toppings.
- Potato enthusiasts who never tire of this versatile vegetable.