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Duck Fat Hasselback Parmesan Potatoes

Category: Perfect Side Dishes

Thinly sliced gold potatoes are arranged Hasselback-style, basted in rich duck fat, and baked until their edges are shatteringly crisp while remaining tender inside. Grated parmesan, cracked pepper, and sea salt create a golden crust that forms while roasting. Halfway through, garlic and fresh rosemary infuse the potatoes with aromatic depth. Finished with extra parmesan and a scatter of rosemary, these potatoes deliver deep savory notes with a luxurious, creamy texture inside. A perfect side for festive or comforting meals, offering a delightful balance between crisp exterior and fluffy center.

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Updated on Tue, 13 May 2025 22:19:34 GMT
A pan of duck fat hasselback potatoes with parmesan. Pin
A pan of duck fat hasselback potatoes with parmesan. | applefoodie.com

Duck fat Hasselback potatoes with parmesan are the ultimate upgrade from regular roast potatoes. Each slice turns crispy around the edges while the middle stays beautifully tender and creamy. This recipe is unbelievably delicious for festive meals or whenever you want to wow friends at your table. The blend of Parmesan and duck fat creates a savory, golden crust no one can resist.

I made these for my family Christmas last year and immediately had to share the recipe – everyone kept going back for one more piece even after dessert had been served. The combination of rosemary and parmesan is unforgettable.

Ingredients

  • Gold potatoes: These hold their shape and become creamy inside Choose ones that are firm and free of green spots
  • Duck fat: Delivers deep flavor and unmatched crispiness Opt for rendered duck fat from a reputable butcher or specialty shop for clean taste
  • Parmesan cheese: Nutty and salty forms a crust that crisps on the tray Use freshly grated for best results
  • Black pepper and sea salt: Elevate flavors Make sure your salt is flaky and your pepper freshly cracked
  • Fresh rosemary: Earthy and aromatic added fresh for bursts of flavor Pick sprigs that are green and free from yellowing
  • Garlic: Adds sweetness and depth Smash the cloves to release oils
  • Baking paper: Prevents sticking helps with effortless cleanup
  • Extra parmesan and rosemary: To finish with a touch of luxury and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:
Wash potatoes thoroughly then slice each lengthwise to create flat oval halves Place them cut side down on a board Secure with chopsticks along both sides of each half then cut thin slices across the top stopping just before your knife hits the board This creates the signature Hasselback pattern
Prepare the Parmesan Layer:
Line a large tray with baking paper Drizzle one tablespoon of duck fat over the surface then scatter half a cup of grated parmesan evenly Sprinkle over a pinch of salt and pepper
Arrange and Brush Potatoes:
Place potatoes cut side down directly onto the parmesan layer Brush tops generously with duck fat using a silicone brush or spoon Sprinkle with sea salt and cracked pepper
Initial Bake:
Slide the tray into a preheated oven at 200 C or 395 F Roast for 30 minutes undisturbed This is when the potatoes begin to open at the slits and the base starts crisping
Add Garlic and Baste:
After thirty minutes remove tray and baste potato tops with pan fat Nestle smashed garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs around potatoes Return to the oven
Final Roast:
Continue roasting for another 25 to 30 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and fork tender The bottom should be crisp and the aroma irresistible
Finish and Serve:
Transfer potatoes to a platter using a wide spatula Top with extra shavings of parmesan and scatter over fresh rosemary for color and aroma
A pan of duck fat hasselback potatoes with parmesan cheese. Pin
A pan of duck fat hasselback potatoes with parmesan cheese. | applefoodie.com

Parmesan is my favorite in this dish it creates those addictive crusty bits that everyone fights over. The first time my nephew tried these he asked if I could make just a tray of the crispy bottoms on their own.

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results reheat them in a hot oven or toaster oven to restore the crispy edges rather than using a microwave which makes them soft.

Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have duck fat you can use good quality olive oil or beef tallow for a different but still impressive result. Pecorino Romano can also step in for parmesan but watch for extra saltiness and reduce added salt as needed.

Serving Ideas

These make an amazing side dish with roast meats turkey ham or even a simple steak. For a fun vegetarian dinner serve with sautéed greens and a dollop of sour cream.

A pan of duck fat hasselback potatoes with parmesan cheese. Pin
A pan of duck fat hasselback potatoes with parmesan cheese. | applefoodie.com

Swedish Inspiration

Hasselback potatoes come from Sweden named after the restaurant where they were invented. The layered slicing technique helps create all those crispy edges while keeping the center buttery soft.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How do I get the best crispy edges on Hasselback potatoes?

Brush duck fat over each potato and bake cut side down on a bed of grated parmesan. The fat creates a crisp crust.

→ Can I make Hasselback potatoes in advance?

Slice and soak potatoes in water to prevent browning, then store in the fridge until ready to roast.

→ What potatoes work best for this method?

Gold or yukon varieties hold their shape and deliver creamy interiors while crisping nicely outside.

→ Is it necessary to use duck fat?

Duck fat adds deep flavor and crispness, but quality olive oil or butter can be substituted for a lighter taste.

→ How should I serve Hasselback potatoes with parmesan?

Finish with extra parmesan and fresh rosemary. Best served hot as a side for roasts or festive gatherings.

Duck Fat Hasselback Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy golden potatoes layered with parmesan, fresh rosemary, and duck fat for irresistibly rich flavor.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cook Time
60 min
Total Time
70 min
By: Ava

Category: Side Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: Swedish inspired

Yield: 5 Serves (5 servings)

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Parmesan Layer

01 1 tablespoon duck fat
02 120 grams parmesan cheese, finely grated
03 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
04 0.5 teaspoon sea salt

→ Potatoes

05 5 medium gold potatoes
06 3 tablespoons duck fat, melted
07 2 teaspoons sea salt
08 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 3 garlic cloves, crushed
10 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

→ For Topping

11 Extra parmesan cheese, for serving
12 Fresh rosemary, for garnish

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven to 200°C. Slice each potato in half lengthwise to create flat ovals. Place each half flat side down on a cutting board, position chopsticks or skewers on both sides of the potato, and use a sharp knife to make thin slices, approximately 3 mm thick, stopping at the chopsticks so not to cut through.

Step 02

Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Drizzle 1 tablespoon duck fat over the paper, then sprinkle 120 grams of parmesan cheese along with 0.25 teaspoon sea salt and 0.5 teaspoon black pepper in an even layer.

Step 03

Place each potato half cut side down onto the prepared cheese layer. Brush the tops and sides of the potatoes with melted duck fat, then season with remaining sea salt and black pepper.

Step 04

Bake the prepared potatoes in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Step 05

After 30 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and baste the potatoes generously with duck fat collected in the tray. Scatter crushed garlic over the potatoes.

Step 06

Continue baking for an additional 25–30 minutes until potatoes are golden crisp on the exterior and soft through the centre.

Step 07

Transfer potatoes to a serving platter. Top with extra parmesan shavings and a sprinkling of fresh rosemary before serving.

Notes & Tips

  1. For ultra-thin, even slices, use a sharp knife and stabilise potatoes securely between chopsticks or skewers.
  2. Basting with duck fat during roasting ensures layers are crisp and evenly golden.

Necessary Equipment

  • Baking tray
  • Baking paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Pastry brush
  • Chopsticks or skewers

Allergy Information

Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy (parmesan cheese)

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice.
  • Calories: 266
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31.3 g
  • Proteins: 7.2 g