Crispy Layered Hasselback-Style Baked Potatoes

(No pictures — full detailed recipe)

These thinly sliced potatoes are layered upright in a baking dish, creating crispy golden edges with soft, tender centers. Perfect as a holiday side or an elevated weeknight dish.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Potatoes

• 6–8 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (or russet)

• 3 tbsp olive oil (or melted unsalted butter)

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional but recommended)

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)

Optional Caramelized Onion Layer

• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

Optional Glaze (for glossy finish)

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

🔪 Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Wash and scrub potatoes well. Leave skins on for texture.

3. Slice potatoes into thin rounds, about ⅛–¼ inch thick.

   • Try to keep slices uniform for even cooking.

4. Place slices on paper towels and pat dry thoroughly.
   (Dry potatoes = crispier edges.)

🧅 Step 2: Caramelize Onions (Optional but Adds Flavor)

1. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.

2. Add sliced onions and salt.

3. Cook slowly for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.

4. Remove from heat.

🧂 Step 3: Season the Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss potato slices with:

• Olive oil or melted butter

• Salt

• Pepper

• Garlic powder

• Smoked paprika

• Thyme

Make sure slices are evenly coated.

🧱 Step 4: Assemble

1. Lightly grease a baking dish (9×13 works well).

2. Spread caramelized onions on the bottom (if using).

3. Arrange potato slices vertically in tight rows across the dish.

   • Pack them snug but not compressed too tightly.

4. Brush any remaining oil mixture over the top.

🔥 Step 5: Bake

1. Cover loosely with foil.

2. Bake for 35–40 minutes.

3. Remove foil and bake an additional 25–30 minutes, until:

   • Tops are golden brown

   • Edges are crispy

   • Centers are fork-tender

If needed, bake an extra 5–10 minutes for deeper crispiness.

✨ Step 6: Add Glaze (Optional)

1. Mix melted butter, honey/maple syrup, and Dijon.

2. Brush over potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.

3. Broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the tops. Watch closely.

🌿 Finish & Serve

Sprinkle with:

• Fresh thyme

• Flaky sea salt

• Fresh cracked pepper

Serve hot.

🧀 Delicious Variations

Cheesy Version

• Sprinkle ½–1 cup grated Parmesan or Gruyère during last 15 minutes of baking.

Garlic Butter Upgrade

• Mix 2 tbsp melted butter + 2 cloves minced garlic and brush over potatoes halfway through baking.

Herb Lover’s Version

• Add rosemary + parsley along with thyme.

Spicy Version

• Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes.

💡 Pro Tips for Maximum Crispiness

• Use Yukon Gold for creamy centers, russet for crispier edges.

• Don’t skip drying the slices.

• A metal baking dish crisps better than glass.

• Convection setting improves browning.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving to set layers.