Hasselbach potatoes in a white cheddar cheese sauce

Hasselback Potatoes in White Cheddar Cheese Sauce: A Cheesy Delight

Elevate Your Potato Game with This Creamy, Cheesy Dish

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that combines the rustic charm of Hasselback potatoes with the rich creaminess of a white cheddar cheese sauce. These potatoes, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, are taken to new heights with a decadent sauce that’ll have you savoring every bite. Perfect as a side dish or a stand-alone indulgence, this recipe will become a favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Hasselback Potatoes:

Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish, optional)

For the White Cheddar Cheese Sauce:

Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

Crafting Creamy, Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes

For the Hasselback Potatoes:

1. Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly, scrubbing the skins to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Place a potato on a cutting board. Starting from one end, make thin slices (about 1/8 inch apart) along the length of the potato, taking care not to cut all the way through. You want the slices to stay connected at the bottom.
3. Season and Bake: Brush each potato with olive oil, making sure to get it between the slices. Season with salt and pepper. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are crispy and the inside is tender. You can insert a knife or skewer to check for doneness; it should slide in easily.
4. Add Butter: Remove the potatoes from the oven and carefully brush them with the melted butter, making sure it gets into the slices. This will enhance the flavor and add extra crispiness.
5. Bake Again: Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy all over.
6. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish the Hasselback potatoes with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

For the White Cheddar Cheese Sauce:

1. Prepare Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
2. Add Milk: Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add 1 1/2 cups of shredded white cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Season: Season the cheese sauce with salt and white pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Tips and Variations:

Enhancing Your Hasselback Potato Experience

Tips:

• When making Hasselback potatoes, try placing a wooden spoon or chopsticks on either side of the potato to prevent accidentally cutting all the way through.
• Experiment with different potato varieties. While russet potatoes are classic, you can use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.

Variations:

• Get creative with the cheese sauce. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Consider adding finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a more indulgent dish, you can top your Hasselback potatoes with crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms before serving.

Presentation:

• Serve the Hasselback potatoes drizzled with the creamy white cheddar cheese sauce, and watch as they disappear in no time. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a cheesy delight.

Storage:

• Hasselback potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Cook’s Note:

• Hasselback potatoes are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Whether you’re serving them at a special gathering or enjoying them as a weeknight treat, their crispy exteriors and creamy interiors are sure to make a lasting impression. So, savor every bite and revel in the comfort of this cheesy delight.
  • Hasselback potatoes are a Swedish culinary marvel, named after the Hasselbacken Restaurant in Stockholm where they were first introduced. This dish combines the best of both worlds: crispy, accordion-like exteriors and soft, tender interiors.
  • Achieving the perfect level of crispiness can take some practice, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. The key is to brush the potatoes generously with olive oil and bake them until they’re beautifully golden brown.
  • The white cheddar cheese sauce is a delightful accompaniment, adding creamy richness to the already delicious Hasselback potatoes. Its velvety texture and sharp cheddar flavor elevate the dish to a whole new level.
  • If you’re serving a larger crowd, simply scale up the ingredients. Hasselback potatoes are always a hit, and making extra cheese sauce is never a bad idea.
  • While these potatoes make an excellent side dish, they can also take center stage as a vegetarian main course. Pair them with a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • When presenting this dish, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh chives, chopped parsley, or even some crispy fried onions for added texture and visual appeal.
  • Remember that cooking should be a joyful and creative experience. Don’t be afraid to add your own twists to this recipe, be it with additional seasonings, toppings, or a different cheese of your choice. The kitchen is your canvas; let your culinary creativity shine!

  So, embrace the art of Hasselback potatoes with white cheddar cheese sauce, and let your taste buds revel in the harmony of textures and flavors. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular weeknight, this dish is a testament to the simple joys of good food. Enjoy your culinary journey!