Looking to elevate your potato game with a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious? Crispy Hasselback potatoes are the answer. These golden-brown, fan-sliced spuds have crunchy edges, a soft buttery center, and are bursting with savory flavors like garlic and fresh parsley. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, prepping a simple weeknight meal, or craving a new side dish for your air fryer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Hasselback potatoes at home.
Don’t miss our recipe for Portillo’s Pepper and Egg Sandwich!
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What Are Hasselback Potatoes?
The Origin and Story Behind the Name
Hasselback potatoes may look fancy, but their roots are humble. The term “Hasselback” actually comes from Hasselbacken, a restaurant in Stockholm, Sweden, where this technique was first created in 1953 by trainee chef Leif Elisson. Instead of slicing a potato all the way through, it’s cut into thin, even slits about two-thirds deep, creating a fan-like accordion shape. Once roasted or air-fried, these slices crisp up beautifully, while the inside remains creamy and soft.
Why They’re Loved for Texture and Taste
So why has this Swedish classic become a global favorite? It’s all in the contrast: crispy outer edges meet fluffy potato interior. The unique slicing technique creates more surface area, which means more crunch and more room for your seasonings to seep in. Think of it as the perfect blend of a baked potato and a bag of potato chips—all in one elegant dish.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Perfectly Crispy Edges, Buttery Soft Center
If you love contrast in texture, Hasselback potatoes deliver. The outer slices get incredibly crisp thanks to repeated brushing with olive oil, while the untouched base keeps everything soft and tender inside. Whether you’re using the oven or air fryer, the results are consistently golden and crave-worthy.
Naturally Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Vegan
One of the best parts? This dish is allergy-friendly without any sacrifice in taste. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan—making it a great choice for guests with dietary restrictions. You can even skip the cheese and still end up with a flavor-packed side dish thanks to garlic, parsley, and nutritional yeast.
Easy to Prep, Bake, or Air Fry Anytime
Don’t be fooled by their gourmet appearance—these potatoes are surprisingly simple to make. All you need is a few pantry staples and about 15 minutes of prep. Slice, season, and bake. The air fryer version speeds up the process while maintaining all the crispy magic.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Garlic Rosemary Baby Potatoes for another crowd-pleasing side.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Them at Home
Best Types of Potatoes for Crispy Texture
When it comes to picking the right potato, go for Yukon Gold. Their golden skin crisps beautifully, and the flesh stays soft and buttery. If you don’t have Yukon Golds, Russet or Red potatoes work just as well. Just choose spuds that are oval, medium to large in size, and can sit steadily on a flat surface.
Flavor Boosters: Garlic, Parsley, Olive Oil
Three ingredients make this dish shine:
- Olive Oil: For crisping up those edges and adding richness.
- Fresh Garlic: Brushed or tucked into slices for a bold kick.
- Chopped Parsley: Adds freshness and color to balance the richness.
Want an extra punch? Sprinkle on some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy—or use parmesan if dairy isn’t a concern.
Substitutes for Common Dietary Needs
You can easily customize this dish:
- Vegan? Use olive oil or plant-based butter.
- Keto-friendly? Stick to olive oil and skip the starchy sauces.
- Dairy-lover? Swap in melted butter or cheese like gruyere or cheddar.
Discover great ideas like our Creamy Scalloped Potatoes if you’re exploring more comforting sides.
How to Make Crispy Hasselback Potatoes Step by Step
Making Hasselback potatoes might look fancy, but it’s much easier than it seems. Whether you prefer using the oven or the air fryer, here’s how to get perfectly crispy potatoes every single time.
Preparing and Slicing the Potatoes
Start by scrubbing your potatoes clean—especially if you’re keeping the skins on (which is recommended for extra crispiness). Pat them dry with a towel.
Place the potato on a cutting board and use two chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side to act as a guardrail. This helps you avoid cutting all the way through.
With a sharp knife, slice the potato thinly, about 1/8 inch apart, stopping two-thirds down. The result should look like a fan or accordion. The thinner the cuts, the crispier the finish.
Oven vs Air Fryer Cooking Times
Once the potatoes are sliced and prepped, it’s time to cook.
For Oven Roasting:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Brush each potato generously with olive oil, making sure it seeps into the crevices.
- Place potatoes on a baking tray, cut side up, and roast for 30–35 minutes.
- Halfway through, brush again with more oil to enhance crispiness.
- Remove when they’re golden, crispy outside, and fork-tender inside.
For Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place potatoes cut side up in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches).
- Air fry for 30–40 minutes, brushing with oil halfway through.
- They’re done when crispy and golden on the outside and tender on the inside.
Don’t miss our Air Fryer Potato Wedges for another crispy potato fix!
Infusing with Flavors & Serving Hot
While the potatoes cook, prepare your flavor mixture. Combine:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 tsp salt
Mix and set aside. When your Hasselback potatoes are done, brush or spoon the garlic-parsley mixture over the tops and in between the slices. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or parmesan cheese for added richness. Serve them hot, straight from the oven or air fryer.
Flavor Variations & Garnishing Ideas
Crispy Hasselback potatoes are a blank canvas for all sorts of flavors. Whether you’re keeping it vegan or going all out with cheese and bacon, there’s something here for every taste.
Loaded Hasselback Potatoes (Vegan and Classic)
For a vegan twist on a loaded potato, add toppings like:
- Cashew cheese or vegan cheddar
- Coconut sour cream
- Caramelized onions
- Chives or scallions
If you’re not avoiding dairy, go classic with:
- Melted cheddar
- Sour cream
- Crispy bacon bits
- Shredded mozzarella or pepper jack
Sauces to Serve With (Garlic Aioli, Sriracha, etc.)
Crispy potatoes beg for dipping sauces. Try these:
- Homemade garlic aioli for rich creaminess
- Sriracha mayo for a spicy punch
- Vegan ranch dressing
- Herbed yogurt sauce with lemon and dill
These sauces are especially useful when serving Hasselback potatoes as appetizers or party snacks.
Check out our Spicy Baked Potato Bites for more sauce-pairing ideas.
Seasonal Twists with Herbs or Cheese
Elevate your potatoes with these seasonal garnishes:
- Fall/Winter: Add thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika
- Spring/Summer: Use lemon zest, dill, or fresh basil
- For a fancier touch, top with crumbled feta, blue cheese, or truffle oil right before serving
Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Hasselback Potatoes
Want to ensure your Hasselbacks turn out crispy and picture-perfect every time? These pro tips will help.
Keeping the Slices Evenly Cut
Uneven slices can lead to uneven cooking. Use chopsticks or skewers on each side of the potato to guide your knife. This makes it nearly impossible to cut through to the bottom and helps keep each slice the same thickness.
Avoiding Burnt or Dry Potatoes
Always brush the slices with oil twice—once before cooking, and once halfway through. This helps prevent dryness and enhances the golden crunch. Also, watch the last 5 minutes of cook time closely to avoid burning.
Looking for inspiration? Try our No-Boil Scalloped Potatoes for another foolproof side dish.
Prepping Ahead or Freezing Instructions
Pressed for time? Prep them ahead!
- Cooked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat at 450°F or air fry at 400°F for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Freezing? Yes! Let them cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and reheat the same way for up to 2 months.
What to Serve With Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Crispy Hasselback potatoes are incredibly versatile. Their golden texture and layered slices make them a gorgeous and satisfying side for all kinds of dishes—from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts.
Side Pairings for Meat, Fish, or Vegan Dishes
These potatoes pair beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken breasts or roasted turkey
- Pan-seared salmon or baked cod
- Grilled tofu or lentil loaf for vegan meals
Want a plant-based dinner? Serve Hasselback potatoes with a side of roasted veggies and our Easy Vegan Gravy for a full meatless meal.
Holiday Menu Pairings and Plating Ideas
For holiday spreads, they’re a visual show-stopper. Add them to a table with:
- Stuffing, like our Dairy-Free Cornbread Stuffing
- A fresh green bean almondine
- Cranberry sauce or spiced apples
Arrange them in a spiral on a platter, garnished with herbs or a drizzle of truffle oil for a restaurant-worthy finish.
FAQs About Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Can I make Hasselback potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook and store them up to 2 days ahead. Reheat in the oven at 450°F or air fryer at 400°F for 10–15 minutes for best crispiness. Wait to add garlic and parsley until just before serving.
What’s the best type of potato for Hasselback?
Yukon Gold is ideal for its smooth skin and buttery interior, but Russet and Red potatoes also work well. Choose medium-to-large potatoes that sit flat and slice evenly.
How do I keep Hasselback potatoes crispy after baking?
Brush oil both before and during baking. Reheat uncovered in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving—they’ll turn soggy.
Can I freeze leftover Hasselback potatoes?
Absolutely. Cool them completely, freeze in a sealed container, and reheat at high temperature in oven or air fryer. They’ll last up to 2 months.
Conclusion: Bring Crispy Hasselback Potatoes to Your Table
From their golden, crispy exterior to the soft, flavor-infused centers, crispy Hasselback potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of texture, flavor, and simple ingredients done right. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just craving something new, this recipe brings elegance without the effort.
Looking for another stunning side? Check out our Crispy Yuca Fries Recipe—it’s bold, gluten-free, and just as crave-worthy.
PrintCrispy Hasselback Potatoes
Crispy Hasselback Potatoes are thinly sliced, fan-like potatoes with a golden, crispy exterior and soft interior, flavored with garlic and parsley. Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Air Fryer or Oven
- Cuisine: Swedish
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (about 3 large cloves)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for garlic-parsley mix)
- Nutritional yeast or grated parmesan (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Wash and pat the potatoes dry.
- Place each potato on a cutting board. Use chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side and slice thinly (1/8 inch apart), two-thirds of the way down.
- Brush olive oil over each potato, making sure to get into the slits.
- For oven: Bake at 450°F for 30–35 minutes, brushing again halfway through. For air fryer: Cook at 400°F for 30–40 minutes, brushing again halfway through.
- While potatoes cook, mix minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and 2 tbsp olive oil in a bowl.
- Once cooked, spread the garlic-parsley mixture over the potatoes and into the slits.
- Sprinkle nutritional yeast or parmesan if using. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold for best texture, but red or russet potatoes work too.
- Chopsticks help prevent cutting all the way through the potato.
- Air fryer may require cooking in batches.
- Prep ahead: Store cooked potatoes up to 2 days, reheat at 450°F or 400°F air fryer.
- Freeze up to 2 months, reheat from frozen in oven/air fryer.
- Use truffle oil, cheese, or fresh herbs for flavor variations.
