If you adore potatoes that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with all your favorite toppings, you have to try this Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe. This dish takes the classic Hasselback potato to a whole new level by layering it with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a dollop of creamy sour cream, making it an irresistible side or snack that everyone will rave about. The flaky crispy edges meet those melty cheesy morsels perfectly — it truly is a celebration of comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to brighten any meal or gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to this dish’s magic. Each component plays a role in creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors — from the golden russet potatoes to the savory bacon and bright green onions.
- 4 medium russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes crisp up beautifully while staying soft and fluffy inside.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter: Essential for creating that golden crust and lending rich flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory punch that complements the cheese and bacon.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it’s the heart of these loaded potatoes.
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Smoky and crispy, it brings irresistible texture and depth.
- ½ cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy topping that cools and balances the richness.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Fresh and bright, they add that perfect pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- Optional: chopped parsley, extra melted butter for drizzling: For a fresh herbal note and added indulgence.
How to Make Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to catch all the delicious drippings. Take each russet potato and carefully slice thinly—about an eighth of an inch apart—without cutting all the way through. A handy trick is to place chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato as a guard. This technique helps the potato fan out beautifully during baking, soaking up all the flavors.
Step 2: Season and Oil the Potatoes
Next, brush the potatoes generously with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring the oil seeps into every crevice between the slices. Then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the top. This seasoning step is where your loaded Hasselback potatoes start to develop their mouthwatering aroma and flavor — don’t be shy with the oil or seasoning, as they’re crucial to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place your potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake them for 45 to 50 minutes, depending on potato size, until the edges are golden and crispy and the inside becomes fork-tender. The anticipation here is well worth it because you’re setting the stage for those irresistible layers of loaded goodness.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon
Once your potatoes are baked to a perfect golden crisp, pull them out and pile on shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, tucking some of each delicacy into the potato slices. Pop them back into the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes so the cheese can melt beautifully. This finishing touch turns these potatoes into a fully loaded masterpiece.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool just a bit. Then spoon on sour cream, sprinkle sliced green onions, and add chopped parsley if desired. The result is a visually stunning, flavor-packed plate of pure comfort that is hard to resist!
How to Serve Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Loaded Hasselback potatoes shine when topped with fresh, colorful garnishes. Besides the classic sour cream and green onions, consider adding chopped chives, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a drizzle of extra melted butter to enhance richness and presentation. Garnishes not only lift the eye but also layer in fresh flavors that complement the core ingredients.
Side Dishes
This recipe can stand proudly on its own or paired with a variety of mains. It makes a fabulous side to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a sizzling burger. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables—the loaded potatoes add comfort and substance to your plate without overwhelming other fresh ingredients.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve these potatoes in individual cast-iron skillets or small baking dishes for a rustic touch. You can also turn the finished loaded potatoes into bite-sized appetizers by making mini versions stuffed with the same toppings. For a fun twist, experiment with different cheeses or add spicy jalapeños and ranch dressing to truly make this Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe your own signature dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 days. To keep the crispiness, try to reheat rather than just microwave, so the edges don’t become soggy.
Freezing
This recipe doesn’t freeze particularly well once loaded with cheese and sour cream, as the texture of some toppings can change. However, you can freeze the baked plain Hasselback potatoes (without toppings) by wrapping them tightly and storing in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your loaded potatoes in an oven set to 375°F for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps maintain the crisp edges and re-melts the cheese without turning the potato mushy. A quick broil at the end can add extra crunch if desired.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes in this Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because of their starchy texture that crisps up well, but you can experiment with Yukon Gold for a creamier bite. Just note the cooking time may vary slightly.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Simply skip the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon or smoked mushrooms for that savory umami flavor. Keep all the other toppings the same for a satisfying meat-free option.
What are some alternative toppings to try?
Feel free to get creative! Some favorites include jalapeños for spice, a drizzle of BBQ sauce, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of blue cheese. This recipe is a great canvas for your flavor preferences.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! The ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those avoiding gluten without compromising on taste and texture.
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time before baking?
You can slice and season the potatoes up to a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature before baking for the best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your family or guests with a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and all-around satisfaction, give this Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe a try. It’s a versatile, cozy crowd-pleaser that elevates simple potatoes into something truly special. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again for game days, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a little extra love on the plate.
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Loaded Hasselback Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Loaded Hasselback Potatoes are a delicious and visually impressive side dish featuring thinly sliced russet potatoes baked to crispy perfection. Each potato is generously brushed with olive oil or butter, seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then baked until tender. They’re topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions for a rich, flavorful experience perfect for game day or hearty meals.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: chopped parsley
- Optional: extra melted butter for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Slice the Potatoes: Place each potato on a cutting board and make thin slices across the top about 1/8 inch apart, stopping just before you cut through completely. To avoid slicing all the way through, place chopsticks or wooden spoons along each side of the potato as a guide.
- Season the Potatoes: Generously brush the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring the oil gets between all the slices. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, seasoning everything evenly.
- Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender inside and the edges are golden and crispy.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the potatoes from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the tops, making sure to tuck some of it into the potato slices. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top each potato with a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with sliced green onions and optional chopped parsley. Drizzle with extra melted butter if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Feel free to customize your loaded potatoes with additional toppings like jalapeños, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce to suit your taste.
- These potatoes work wonderfully as a side dish or a hearty appetizer for game day gatherings.
- For crispier edges, use melted butter instead of olive oil and baste the potatoes halfway through baking.
- Use a sharp knife and steady hands when slicing to avoid cutting all the way through the potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
