Hasselback Potatoes with Ham and Cheese Recipe

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This temperature will allow the potatoes to cook through while becoming crisp on the outside.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
– Wash the **potatoes** thoroughly to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
– Place each potato on a cutting board. To make Hasselback-style slices, place a wooden spoon or chopstick on either side of the potato to act as a guard. This will prevent you from cutting all the way through the potato.
– Carefully slice the potato into thin **1/8-inch slices**, stopping just before you reach the bottom, so the slices stay connected. The result should resemble an accordion shape, with thin slices but still holding together at the bottom.

#### Step 3: Season the Potatoes
– Drizzle **olive oil** over the potatoes and use your hands or a brush to ensure each potato is well coated. This will help the potatoes crisp up during baking.
– Season generously with **salt** and **pepper**, making sure to sprinkle some inside the slices for flavor.

#### Step 4: Add the Ham and Cheese
– Place a small amount of **diced ham** into every other slice, gently pushing it down so it stays in place. You can alternate between adding ham and cheese in the slices for a more even distribution of flavor.
– Next, sprinkle **shredded cheese** into the slices as well, making sure it’s evenly spread throughout the potatoes. You can use a mix of **cheddar**, **Gruyère**, or even **mozzarella** for a melty, gooey result.

#### Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
– Place the prepared potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. If you like, drizzle the melted **butter** over the top of the potatoes for extra richness.
– Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for **45-55 minutes**, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the edges are crispy and golden brown. Check halfway through and if the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the potatoes loosely with foil and continue baking.

#### Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some **smoked paprika** on top for an extra touch of flavor, and garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** for a pop of color.

### How to Serve Hasselback Potatoes with Ham and Cheese

These **Hasselback potatoes with ham and cheese** are a stand-out side dish or even a hearty main when paired with a light salad or some steamed vegetables. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. **As a Side Dish**: These cheesy potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats like **roast chicken**, **pork tenderloin**, or **steak**. They also go well with a rich **beef stew** or a light grilled fish like **salmon**.
2. **With a Salad**: Serve these potatoes alongside a crisp, fresh salad to balance the richness. A simple **arugula** or **spinach salad** with lemon vinaigrette works perfectly.
3. **As a Main Dish**: For a satisfying vegetarian main course, you can skip the ham or replace it with sautéed vegetables like **spinach**, **mushrooms**, or **zucchini**.
4. **For a Brunch**: These potatoes make an excellent addition to a brunch spread. Pair them with eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a complete meal.

### Variations on Hasselback Potatoes with Ham and Cheese

This dish is highly customizable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

– **Vegetarian Option**: Skip the ham and load the potatoes with **sautéed mushrooms**, **spinach**, or even **caramelized onions**. You can also use a mix of different cheeses like **feta** or **goat cheese** for a tangy twist.
– **Bacon Lovers**: Add **crispy bacon** bits between the slices for an extra smoky flavor that will complement the cheese and ham.
– **Herb-Infused**: Sprinkle some fresh or dried herbs like **thyme**, **rosemary**, or **oregano** into the slices for an added aromatic flavor.
– **Cheese Variations**: Experiment with different cheeses like **Gruyère**, **fontina**, or **brie** for a gourmet touch. You can even try **blue cheese** for a bold, tangy option.
– **Spicy**: Add a bit of **jalapeño** or a sprinkle of **chili flakes** between the slices for some heat. A dash of **hot sauce** on top can give the dish a zesty kick.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

**Hasselback Potatoes with Ham and Cheese** are everything you want in a side dish—crispy, cheesy, and satisfying. The combination of soft, fluffy potato layers filled with savory ham and gooey melted cheese is a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight dinner or as a festive side for a holiday meal, these potatoes will steal the show.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s hearty and comforting, but still impressive enough to serve guests. The crispy, golden edges contrast beautifully with the tender potato interior, and the cheese and ham make each bite rich and indulgent.

### Conclusion

**Hasselback Potatoes with Ham and Cheese** are a delicious, easy-to-make twist on a classic recipe. With layers of tender potato, savory ham, and melty cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish or a standout main course, this recipe has you covered. Try it today, and get ready to enjoy one of the best potato dishes you’ve ever had!