Hasselback Sweet Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter: A Show-Stopping Side Dish

If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy, elegant, and flavor-packed side dish that turns heads and tantalizes taste buds, look no further. These Hasselback Sweet Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter are everything you want in a fall or holiday recipe—crisp edges, buttery herb-infused slices, melty cheese (if you choose), and a touch of flair that makes them feel gourmet without being complicated. Whether you’re feeding a family on a weeknight or impressing guests at Thanksgiving dinner, this recipe will become a go-to in your seasonal rotation.

Why This Recipe Works for Everyone

This dish is perfect for food lovers who want:

• A comforting, elevated side dish.

• A visually stunning presentation with minimal effort.

• Flexibility—it’s vegetarian, but easy to adapt with dairy-free options.

• Depth of flavor from real, fresh herbs and rich butter.

• A dish that pairs well with almost any main course, from roast chicken to plant-based mains.

It’s also ideal for anyone trying to add more nutrient-dense vegetables into their meals. Sweet potatoes are naturally high in fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, making this dish a powerhouse of flavor and health.

What Are Hasselback Potatoes?

Hasselback potatoes are a Swedish invention where whole potatoes are thinly sliced not all the way through, fanned slightly open, and baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. In this version, we use sweet potatoes—adding natural sweetness and color—and coat them with a decadent garlic herb butter to bring a savory, aromatic finish to each slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes or garnet yams

• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Herb Butter

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon each finely chopped parsley and chives (or 1 tsp each dried)

• 1 teaspoon each finely chopped rosemary and thyme (or ¼ tsp each dried)

• ½ teaspoon each paprika and salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Pinch of ground nutmeg

Optional (HIGHLY Recommended)

• 8 ounces regular or smoked Gouda cheese, thinly sliced into 1-inch squares

Toppings (choose one or mix and match)

• Sour cream

• Herb goat cheese

• Chopped green onions

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Sharp chef’s knife or a Hasselback potato slicer

• Cutting board

• Small mixing bowl

• Baking sheet

• Aluminum foil

• Pastry brush or spoon for basting

• Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, make 1/8-inch slices along the top of each potato, stopping ½ inch from the bottom to keep them intact. Tip: Place chopsticks or wooden spoons on each side of the potato to prevent cutting all the way through.

Step 3: First Roast

Place the sliced potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Rub the oil all over, making sure it seeps into the slices. Bake for 40 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Herb Butter

While the potatoes are roasting, combine the melted butter, olive oil, garlic, herbs, paprika, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Do this toward the end of the roasting time to prevent the butter from hardening.

Step 5: Baste and Bake Again

After 40 minutes, remove the potatoes and carefully brush the garlic herb butter between the slices. Return them to the oven for another 10–20 minutes, or until the center slices are tender and the edges are golden and crisp.

Step 6: Optional—Add Cheese

If using Gouda, remove the potatoes and gently insert cheese slices between every few potato cuts. Return to oven and bake another 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and slightly bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Brush with any leftover butter in the pan and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, a smear of herb goat cheese, or a sprinkle of green onions.

Expert Tips & Variations

• No Gouda? Try Gruyère, cheddar, or even mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

• Make it Vegan: Use vegan butter and skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

• Time Saver: Slice the potatoes up to a day ahead and store them in cold water. Just dry thoroughly before roasting.

• Want Extra Crispy Edges? Use a convection setting or broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

• Add a Sweet Twist: Add a tiny drizzle of maple syrup or honey before the second roast for sweet-savory contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store any leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat:

• Oven (recommended): 350°F for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: 1–2 minutes, but this may soften the crispy edges.

• Air Fryer: 375°F for 5–7 minutes for best texture.

These also make an excellent addition to grain bowls, tacos, or breakfast hashes the next day!

What to Serve With Hasselback Sweet Potatoes

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few pairing suggestions:

Protein Pairings

• Herb-crusted chicken

• Maple-glazed pork tenderloin

• Stuffed portobello mushrooms (for a vegetarian main)

• Thanksgiving turkey

Drink Pairings

• Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris

• Spiced apple cider

• Light reds like Pinot Noir

• Citrus or rosemary-infused sparkling water

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and slice the potatoes the night before and store them in cold water in the fridge. Drain and dry completely before roasting.

Can I use regular potatoes instead?

Absolutely. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work just as well, though you may need to adjust the bake time slightly depending on the size.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Nope. The skins crisp up nicely and provide texture. Just scrub them well before slicing.

What’s the best cheese substitute if I don’t have Gouda?

Gruyère is an excellent meltable cheese with nutty flavor. Smoked mozzarella or Fontina also work beautifully.

Final Thoughts 

These Hasselback Sweet Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter are more than a side dish—they’re a celebration of fall flavors, a conversation starter at dinner, and a foolproof way to elevate your table with minimal effort. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’re worth every slice.

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Happy cooking, and enjoy every buttery, herb-kissed bite!