Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes

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### Instructions:

#### **Step 1: Prep the Potatoes**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)** and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel. Slice a thin layer off the bottom of each potato so they have a stable base and can sit upright on the baking sheet.

3. **Hasselback Style**: Using a sharp knife, make even slices across the potato, about **1/8 inch** apart, being careful not to slice all the way through (leave about ½ inch at the bottom intact). This will create a fan-like shape.

#### **Step 2: Season and Stuff the Potatoes**
1. **Drizzle with Olive Oil**: Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with **olive oil** and brush it evenly over the potatoes. This will help them crisp up during baking.

2. **Add Garlic and Butter**: In a small bowl, combine the **melted butter** and **minced garlic**. Drizzle this mixture over each potato, allowing it to seep into the slices.

3. **Stuff with Bacon**: Carefully stuff the slices of the potatoes with **crumbled cooked bacon**. You can use your fingers or a small spoon to ensure the bacon is well distributed inside each slice.

4. **Season**: Sprinkle the potatoes with **salt**, **pepper**, and **dried thyme** (or rosemary) for extra flavor.

#### **Step 3: Bake the Potatoes**
1. **Bake the Potatoes**: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for **45-50 minutes**, or until the potatoes are tender and the edges are golden and crispy. If you want extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes.

#### **Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish**
1. **Add Cheese**: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the **shredded cheese** over each potato. Return to the oven and bake for an additional **5-7 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. **Garnish and Serve**: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh **chives** or **parsley** and serve with a dollop of **sour cream**, if desired.

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### Tips for Success:
– **Crispier Bacon**: For even crispier bacon, cook the bacon slices in the oven before crumbling. This way, it will be extra crispy and won’t lose its crunch when stuffed inside the potatoes.
– **Cheese Variations**: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like **mozzarella**, **Parmesan**, or **pepper jack** for a unique flavor profile.
– **Stuff with More Goodies**: You can add extra ingredients like **green onions**, **jalapeños**, or even **sautéed mushrooms** into the slices for added flavor.
– **Use Smaller Potatoes**: For a fun appetizer, consider using smaller baby potatoes and serve these bite-sized bacon-filled Hasselbacks to your guests.

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### Serving Suggestions:
– **Perfect as a Side Dish**: Serve these bacon-filled Hasselback potatoes alongside **grilled steak**, **roast chicken**, or **pork chops** for a hearty meal.
– **Make It a Meal**: Add a side of **fresh salad** or **steamed vegetables** to complete the meal and balance the richness of the potatoes.
– **Party Favorite**: These potatoes also make a great party snack or appetizer. Cut them into smaller portions for a delicious finger food option.

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### Conclusion:
**Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes** are a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. With their crispy, cheesy, and bacon-filled layers, they are the ultimate indulgence. Whether served as a side dish or the star of your meal, these potatoes are sure to impress your family and guests. Try them out for your next dinner and enjoy the perfect combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and perfectly roasted potatoes!