ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions: How to Make Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place the cleaned potatoes on a cutting board. To create the Hasselback effect, make evenly spaced slices along the potato, but do not cut all the way through. Leave about 1/4 inch at the bottom intact so the potato remains in one piece. You can use two wooden spoons or chopsticks on either side of the potato to ensure you don’t cut all the way through.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
While the potatoes are being prepared, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat. After the bacon has cooled slightly, crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Place the sliced potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Brush them with the melted butter and olive oil mixture, making sure to coat all of the exposed potato slices. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. If you like a little garlic kick, sprinkle minced garlic over the potatoes for an added layer of taste.
Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the potatoes for about 40-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown on the edges. The slices should fan out, creating that classic Hasselback appearance. For an extra crispy texture, you can broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Stuff with Bacon and Cheese
Once the potatoes are fully baked, remove them from the oven. Carefully fan out the potato slices, making space between each slice for the fillings. Sprinkle crumbled bacon generously between the slices of each potato, ensuring that the bacon gets nestled into the cracks. Then, top with shredded cheddar cheese and return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After the cheese has melted, remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh burst of flavor and color. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired for an extra creamy, tangy contrast to the rich bacon and cheese.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they are starchy and fluffy when baked, creating the perfect texture. However, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a waxier texture.
- Crispy bacon: The key to this dish is crispy bacon, so don’t skip the step of cooking the bacon until it’s crispy. Soft or chewy bacon won’t provide the satisfying crunch that complements the tender potato.
- Add extra fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Some great additions include sautéed onions, sour cream, cream cheese, or even a sprinkling of parmesan cheese along with the cheddar.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the potatoes in advance up to the point where you add the bacon and cheese. Simply bake the potatoes, let them cool, then store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, stuff with bacon and cheese, then bake again to melt the cheese.
Why Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes Are a Must-Try
Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes are the perfect marriage of crispy, savory bacon, creamy cheese, and tender potato. The fan-like appearance of the potatoes makes them an eye-catching dish, while the bacon and cheese filling provides a flavor explosion with every bite. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a showstopper that can easily stand on its own as a main course.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests. With its hearty, satisfying flavors, Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Conclusion: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion
There’s no denying the appeal of Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes. They bring a savory, indulgent twist to the classic potato dish, combining crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender potato in a single bite. Whether served as a side dish or a main, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every crispy slice. So the next time you’re looking to elevate your potato game, give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
