Sliced Baked Potatoes, often referred to as Hasselback-style potatoes, are a visually stunning and delicious side dish. Their unique presentation, with thin vertical slices, allows for even roasting and crispy edges while keeping the inside soft and tender. These potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to any meat entrée or can stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian option.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can transform humble potatoes into a golden-brown, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Adjust the spices to suit your taste or add toppings like cheese, sour cream, or chives for a more indulgent version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: The thin slices roast to perfection, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or add toppings to make it your own.
• Impressive Presentation: The sliced design makes these potatoes look as good as they taste.
Ingredients
• 4 medium Russet potatoes (or your preferred variety)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon paprika
• 4 to 6 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
1. Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Leave the skin on for added flavor and texture.
2. Slice the potatoes vertically from side to side, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through. Aim to slice only halfway down to create a fan-like effect. For crispier edges, try slicing at an angle.
Step 2: Preheat and Season
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Seasoning
1. Place the sliced potatoes on a parchment-lined baking tray.
2. Spritz or brush each potato generously with olive oil, ensuring it gets into the slices.
3. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the potatoes, taking care to get some between the slices for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
1. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
2. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or skewer into the center of a potato—it should glide in easily.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
2. Pair them with your favorite main dish, or top with sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips
• Even Slices: Use chopsticks or wooden spoons as guides when slicing to prevent cutting all the way through the potato.
• Crispier Potatoes: Add an extra drizzle of olive oil midway through baking for a crispier texture.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices like rosemary, thyme, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze them if necessary. Wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) until heated through.
Sliced Baked Potatoes are a versatile and crowd-pleasing side dish that combines simplicity with elegance. Their crispy edges, tender interior, and customizable flavor make them a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a festive feast, these potatoes are sure to be a hit!
