Name: Crispy Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes with Zesty Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 12-15 pieces Mini potatoes (provides a perfect bite-sized treat); 3 tablespoons Olive oil (adds richness and ensures crispy exterior); 1 tablespoon Sea salt (enhances potatoes’ natural flavor); 1 tablespoon Ground black pepper (adds a warm kick); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (infuses delightful aroma); 1 teaspoon Onion powder (contributes subtle sweetness); 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped (to garnish); ½ cup Sour cream (creates a creamy base); ¼ cup Mayonnaise (adds richness and texture); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (provides exciting flavor); 1 teaspoon Lemon juice (brightens and balances richness); Salt and pepper (to taste)

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As I pulled a tray of golden-brown potatoes from the oven, I couldn't help but admire their crispy edges, cradling a tender heart. These Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes are the ultimate game-changer for anyone seeking a delightful twist on a traditional side dish. Not only are they a visual masterpiece that impresses at dinner parties, but they also come together in just about an hour, making them perfect for a busy weeknight. With a zesty Cajun dip to elevate each bite, these little gems combine comfort food with a dash of fun. Ready to serve up something special? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

Why are Mini Hasselback Potatoes a Must-Try?

Crispy Edges: Each bite reveals a perfectly crisp exterior, thanks to the Hasselback technique that enhances texture like no other.
Flavorful Seasoning: The harmonious blend of sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder ensures a savory punch, making these potatoes irresistible.
Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep, this dish fits seamlessly into any busy schedule.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them as a delightful side or a standalone snack! Pair them with your favorite proteins or toss in fresh herbs for a seasonal twist. If you're looking for other easy yet impressive sides, check out my guide on quick and delicious side dishes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these little wonders will leave your guests raving and asking for the recipe!

Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes

Mini potatoes – 12-15 potatoes provide a perfect bite-sized treat that’s fun to eat.
Olive oil – 3 tablespoons add richness and help achieve that golden-crisp exterior.
Sea salt – 1 tablespoon enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
Ground black pepper – 1 tablespoon adds a warm kick that beautifully complements the salt.
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon infuses a delightful aroma and depth of flavor into the potatoes.
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon contributes a subtle sweetness that balances the seasoning.
Fresh parsley, chopped – 1 tablespoon to garnish and brighten up the dish with color.

For the Cajun Dip

Sour cream – ½ cup creates a creamy base that pairs beautifully with the vibrant Cajun flavors.
Mayonnaise – ¼ cup adds richness and a silky texture to the dip.
Cajun seasoning – 1 tablespoon for that exciting flavor explosion that takes the dip to the next level.
Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon brightens and balances the richness of the dip.
Salt and pepper – to taste, ensuring your Cajun dip is seasoned just right! Use these to enhance the flavors of the Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking. This high temperature will ensure that your Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes achieve that perfectly crispy exterior. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a baking sheet and parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and dry 12-15 mini potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each potato thinly, leaving about ¼ inch at the bottom. This will create the unique Hasselback effect, allowing seasonings and heat to penetrate, giving the potatoes that delightful crispness.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes
Place the sliced mini potatoes in a mixing bowl. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over them, ensuring even coverage, and toss gently with your hands to coat all the slices. The olive oil is key to achieving the golden-brown hue that makes these mini Hasselback potatoes so inviting.

Step 4: Season the Potatoes
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sea salt, 1 tablespoon of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder evenly over the potatoes. Toss again to ensure even distribution of the flavorful seasoning, enhancing every tasty bite of your Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Carefully arrange the seasoned potatoes on the sheet, making sure to space them evenly apart. This will allow the hot air to circulate around each potato, helping them bake uniformly for that crispy finish everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake the Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for crispy edges and tender interiors. When done, they should be golden brown and fragrant, a true testament to their well-seasoned glory.

Step 7: Make the Cajun Dip
While the potatoes bake, prepare your Cajun dip. In a bowl, mix together ½ cup of sour cream, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Stir well until everything is combined and creamy, adjusting salt and pepper to taste for an added kick alongside your potatoes.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle any remaining olive oil over the top and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your warm Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes alongside the zesty Cajun dip for dipping and delight!

Helpful Tricks for Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Slice with Care: Make sure to cut the potatoes thinly but not all the way through; leaving about ¼ inch at the bottom keeps them intact and fluffy inside.

Even Seasoning: To ensure every bite is bursting with flavor, remember to toss the potatoes well after adding the seasoning—this is key for your Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes!

Baking Sheet Space: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spacing the potatoes allows hot air to circulate, resulting in crispier edges.

Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the baking process as different ovens may vary. Look for that perfect golden-brown color and fragrant aroma to know they’re ready!

Dip to Impress: Adjust the Cajun dip ingredients to your liking. If you prefer more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning; if you like it milder, reduce it for a fantastic flavor tailored to your palate.

Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with your favorite dairy-free yogurt or tahini for a creamy texture.
Spicy Cajun: Boost the heat by adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the dip for a fiery kick that elevates your pairing.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme with the olive oil before coating your potatoes for a fragrant twist. Each herb adds its own unique character, enhancing that comforting aroma.
Parmesan Crust: Add grated Parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking for a rich and cheesy addition that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Sweet Potato Varieties: Swap mini potatoes for sweet potatoes to introduce a subtle sweetness that pairs delightfully with the salty and spicy elements of the dish.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder or add roasted garlic cloves for a deeper flavor that complements the spice nicely. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as they bake!
Zesty Yogurt Dip: Replace the Cajun seasoning in the dip with dill and lemon zest for a refreshing counterpart that brightens the dish—perfect for warm-weather gatherings!
Smoked Paprika: Incorporate smoked paprika into the seasoning mix for a hint of smokiness, adding depth and complexity to every bite that will delight fans of bold flavors.

Experiment with these variations, and let your culinary creativity shine! If you're looking for additional inspirations to enhance your meal, check out my article on unique side dishes that can perfectly complement this recipe!

How to Store and Freeze Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: To freeze, flash freeze the baked potatoes on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the refrigerated or frozen potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture.

Garnish: Fresh parsley can lose its vibrancy when stored; add it right before serving to keep the dish looking fresh and inviting.

Make Ahead Options

These Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the week! You can slice and season the mini potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wash, dry, and slice them, then toss with olive oil and seasonings before refrigerating them in an airtight container. To maintain their quality, it's best to prep the Cajun dip on the same day you plan to bake the potatoes, as it can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, bake the potatoes straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for that crispy perfection with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience of having this delightful dish ready to go!

What to Serve with Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Elevate your dining experience with delicious accompaniments that will create a delightful meal around these crispy bites.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken pairs beautifully, adding a touch of protein that complements the potatoes' crispiness.
Vegetable Medley: A colorful sauté of seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus brings freshness and balances the richness of the dip.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a tangy contrast that refreshes the palate alongside the savory potatoes.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic create a heartwarming comfort food combo that’s hard to resist.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and a light dressing adds crunch and brightness, enhancing each bite of the mini Hasselback potatoes.

Pairing these elements not only enriches the sensory experience but also invites a variety of flavors, making each meal memorable! Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine for a perfect finishing touch, or indulge with a rich chocolate mousse for dessert to end on a sweet note.

Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right mini potatoes?
Absolutely! When choosing mini potatoes, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and blemish-free. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft to the touch. The smaller, the better for that perfect bite-sized experience. I often prefer a mix of red and yellow baby potatoes for a colorful presentation.

What is the best way to store leftover mini Hasselback potatoes?
You can store your leftover Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their crispiness, I recommend reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave, as this will help revive that wonderful texture.

Can I freeze Hasselback potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! To freeze your baked potatoes, first, flash freeze them by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they're firm, about 1-2 hours. Once they're solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crisp!

How do I troubleshoot undercooked potatoes?
If your Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes are undercooked, don’t worry! Simply return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking every few minutes to ensure they achieve that crispy exterior and tender interior. You can also adjust the oven temperature to a higher setting if you’re looking for additional crisping.

Are there any dietary considerations with the Cajun dip?
Good question! The Cajun dip contains dairy products, so it's not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you can easily substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt to make it vegan-friendly. Always check the Cajun seasoning for gluten if you’re avoiding it, as some brands may contain hidden allergens.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can wash, slice, and season the mini potatoes a few hours in advance and store them in a bowl covered with damp paper towels in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve. For the Cajun dip, you can also make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge; just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.