Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking to dazzle with a side dish that’s both drop-dead gorgeous and unapologetically flavorful, Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes are the answer. These potatoes transform a few everyday ingredients into a crispy, golden, cheesy creation that’s as much a feast for the eyes as the tastebuds. Each slice fans out like potato petals, soaking up garlicky butter and blanketed in nutty Parmesan—perfect for weeknight dinners or a celebration spread. Prepare for your table to go absolutely silent as everyone tucks in!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the best recipes come from a handful of essential staples, and Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes are no exception. Each component here isn’t just filler; it’s crucial for building flavor, adding aroma, or creating that signature crispy-outside, fluffy-inside bite.

• Russet potatoes: Their sturdy texture and size make them perfect for holding up to all those delicious slits and toppings.
• Unsalted butter: Melts into every crevice, bringing richness and helping the potatoes crisp beautifully.
• Olive oil: Blends with butter for an extra layer of flavor and helps prevent burning while roasting.
• Fresh garlic: This isn’t the time for garlic powder—the real deal infuses the dish with unmistakable punchy aroma and taste.
• Salt: Essential to season every layer and amplify all the cozy, savory notes.
• Black pepper: A subtle kick for depth and balance alongside the rich cheese and butter.
• Dried thyme: Adds a fragrant, earthy backdrop that pairs so naturally with potatoes and cheese.
• Paprika: Sprinkled in for gentle warmth and a lovely color boost as the potatoes crisp up.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and crisps up into a golden, irresistible topping.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped and scattered over the top for a vibrant finish and a fresh pop to each bite.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Potatoes

Let’s start with the magic: slicing! Wash and scrub your russet potatoes until they’re squeaky clean. To create those classic Hasselback fans, place each potato between two wooden spoons or chopsticks (this clever trick keeps your knife from cutting all the way through). Carefully slice thin, even slits across the potato, stopping just before the base so the potatoes stay intact but open up beautifully when baked.

Step 2: Make the Buttery Garlic Mix

In a small bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, olive oil, freshly minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and a hint of paprika. This mixture is the backbone of flavor, wrapping each potato in herby, garlicky, buttery goodness. Give it a quick stir so every spoonful packs a perfect blend.

Step 3: Brush and Bake

Position your sliced potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Take your time brushing the garlic butter mixture onto each potato, nudging it gently into all those tasty slits for maximum flavor. Slide the tray into a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven and bake for 45 minutes. Midway, you’ll notice the edges crisping up and the insides getting deliciously tender.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Finish Baking

Once the potatoes are almost fully cooked, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over each one, letting some nestle into the slices. Pop your potatoes back into the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese turns deeply golden and wonderfully crispy, sending wave after wave of tempting aroma through your kitchen.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

As soon as your Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes are out of the oven, shower them with chopped fresh parsley. This final touch adds vibrant color and a hint of freshness, making the potatoes look as inviting as they taste. Serve hot and watch each fan-shaped bite disappear in minutes!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes

Garnishes

For the ultimate finish, a bright shower of freshly chopped parsley isn’t just pretty—it brings a subtle freshness that balances out the savory, cheesy flavors. Sometimes I even toss on a little extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who like a gentle kick. Don’t be afraid to finish with a tiny drizzle of good olive oil for that final restaurant-style sheen!

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes are an incredible side for almost anything that loves a hearty, flavorful potato by its side. These are perfect with roast chicken, grilled steaks, or even something as simple as seared salmon. If you’re keeping things vegetarian, plate them with a crisp salad and buttery green beans for an ultra-comforting dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring on the wow-factor at your table by nestling these potatoes on a big platter, fanned for drama, or serve each person their own on a small plate with an extra scoop of Parmesan on top. For a show-stopping party snack, try mini potatoes prepared Hasselback-style—guests will love the bite-sized crunch! You can even offer a DIY toppings bar with sour cream, crumbled bacon, or smoked paprika.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes hold up surprisingly well! Cool any extras completely, then tuck them into an airtight container. They’ll stay tasty in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, retaining much of their crispy-cheesy charm when properly stored.

Freezing

For the best results, freeze only baked (not raw) Hasselback potatoes. Wrap each potato individually in foil, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They’re good for up to two months. To prevent sogginess, allow frozen potatoes to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To revive the magic, place your leftover potatoes on a baking sheet and reheat in a 375°F oven until warmed through and crispy on the edges again—usually about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which tends to soften the skins and won’t deliver that signature crunch!

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of potato for Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes?

Absolutely! Yukon Golds make a creamier, buttery version, while red potatoes turn out deliciously sweet and tender. Stick to potatoes that are medium-sized and not too waxy for best results.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

Nope! The skin crisps and caramelizes in the oven, adding amazing texture. Just be sure to scrub the skins well before slicing and baking.

How do I avoid slicing all the way through the potatoes?

The wooden spoon, chopstick, or even a pair of pencils placed on either side of the potato helps keep your knife from going all the way through, so each slice fans out without breaking apart.

Can I add other cheeses besides Parmesan?

Of course! Try a sprinkle of mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyere along with or instead of Parmesan for an extra-cheesy twist. Just be aware that softer cheeses may melt more into the potato slits, giving you a gooier (but delicious) result.

Is it possible to prep Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes ahead of time?

You can certainly do the slicing and make your flavored butter mixture ahead—simply store both in the refrigerator separately. When you’re ready to bake, brush the potatoes and continue with the recipe as usual.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to wow your guests or just jazz up a weeknight dinner, Garlic Parmesan Hasselback Potatoes make every meal more special. I hope you give these irresistible, crispy, cheesy potatoes a try—and that they become as much of a go-to favorite for you as they’ve been for me. Happy cooking!

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