Introduction:
Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes are a delicious and indulgent twist on the classic Hasselback potatoes.
The crispy, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the tender, roasted potato slices.
This recipe combines savory flavors with a beautiful presentation, making it a great side dish for any occasion.
The bacon filling adds extra richness and depth of flavor, creating a satisfying treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
4 medium russet potatoes (or any large potato of your choice)
6 strips of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter (melted)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes well under running water and pat them dry.
Slice each potato into thin, even slices, about 1/8 inch thick, but don’t cut all the way through.
You want to stop about 1/2 inch from the bottom of the potato so that the slices stay connected at the base.
Season the Potatoes: Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.
Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon into the crevices between the potato slices. Press gently to make sure the bacon stays in place.
Roast the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, and the bacon is crispy. If you like your potatoes extra crispy, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking. Return to the oven until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Garnish and Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked and golden, remove them from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with sour cream on the side if desired.
Description:
Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes are the perfect fusion of crispy, savory, and tender. The thin potato slices allow the bacon to fit perfectly in between, giving each bite a burst of flavor. The potatoes are roasted until golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. Topped with melted cheese and garnished with parsley, this dish makes an irresistible side that pairs wonderfully with any protein, or even as a hearty appetizer.
Tips:
Bacon Choice: For the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon, as it will hold its shape better and provide more crunch.
Crispiness: If you like extra crispy potatoes, you can brush them with additional olive oil or butter halfway through cooking.
Potato Variety: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they’re starchy and fluffy on the inside, but you can use other types like Yukon Gold for a creamier texture.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the potatoes ahead of time, slice them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to coat them with oil and butter to prevent browning.
Variations:
Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar cheese for other varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
Herb Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the potato slices for extra fragrance and flavor.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take, omit the bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or onions for a hearty filling.
Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
Correction:
If the potatoes are not cooking evenly or are still firm after the recommended baking time, try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You can also cover the potatoes with foil for the first 25 minutes of roasting to ensure they cook through before the outside crisps up.
Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy these Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes as a crowd-pleasing side dish or as a main course when paired with a simple salad or a dipping sauce. Every bite is a perfect combination of crispy bacon, tender potato, and melted cheese – a true comfort food!