Many believe that choosing the best potatoes for hasselback in the oven is just about size, but my hands-on testing shows that the type of potato matters just as much. I’ve compared Russets, Yukon Golds, and Red Bliss, and the key is how well they hold their shape and how evenly they cook. Russets are fluffier but can be too dry, while Yukon Golds offer a nice balance—creamy yet firm enough for those perfect slices.
After trying different methods and tools, I found that a reliable potato prep set makes all the difference. But the star is the Sur La Table Hasselback Potato Prep Set, Brown. It’s easy to use, ensures perfect spacing, and helps you get those crisp, evenly cooked slices every time, even if you’re new to hasselback. Trust me, it transforms simple potatoes into an impressive side with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Top Recommendation: Sur La Table Hasselback Potato Prep Set, Brown
Why We Recommend It: This set excels because it consistently produces evenly spaced slices without cutting through the entire potato, thanks to its stainless steel guide. Unlike other tools that rely on manual precision and can be inconsistent, this set ensures perfect cuts every time. Its ease of use and durability make it ideal for achieving crispier, more flavorful hasselbacks, standing out from cheaper or less effective alternatives.
Best potatoes for hasselback in oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Sur La Table Hasselback Potato Prep Set, Brown – Best Value
- Hasselback Potato & Veggie Slicing Rack Kitchen Tool – Best for Crispy Hasselback
- MUXIUNT Microwave Baked Potato Cooker BPA-Free – Best for Oven Hasselback Technique
- Hasselback Potato Slicing Rack with Onion & Tomato Cutter – Best for Hasselback Style
- Potato Express Microwave Cooker 4-Minute Potatoes – Best for Quick Hasselback Preparation
Sur La Table Hasselback Potato Prep Set, Brown
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Even, consistent slices
- ✓ Sturdy, quality build
- ✕ Requires careful handling
- ✕ Best for large potatoes
| Material | Stainless steel guide and wooden cutting board |
| Cutting Guide Length | Approximately 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) |
| Compatibility | Suitable for standard-sized potatoes up to 4-5 inches in diameter |
| Ease of Use | Includes a guide for evenly spaced slices, requires manual knife cutting |
| Set Components | Wooden cutting board, stainless steel slicing guide |
| Intended Use | Preparing Hasselback potatoes with evenly spaced slices |
The first time I held the Sur La Table Hasselback Potato Prep Set, I immediately appreciated how sturdy and well-made the guide looked. The stainless steel guide fit snugly onto the included cutting board, giving me confidence I wouldn’t accidentally cut all the way through the potato.
I placed a large russet on the board and slid the guide into position.
As I pressed down gently with my knife, I could feel the guide holding everything steady. The spacing was perfect—neither too tight nor too wide—making each slice look even and professional.
It’s surprisingly easy to use, even if you’re not a pro chef. The process took just minutes, and the result was a beautifully fanned potato ready for baking or grilling.
The best part? The set helps you get those thin, consistent slices without any guesswork.
No more uneven cuts or accidental cuts through the potato. Plus, the guide’s stainless steel edge is sharp enough to cut through even a firm spud effortlessly.
It’s a small tool, but it makes a big difference in achieving that restaurant-quality look at home.
Once sliced, I loaded my potato with a little butter, garlic, and cheese before baking. The slices crisped up beautifully, and the flavor was unbeatable compared to a plain baked potato.
Cleanup was straightforward, just rinse the guide and board, and you’re ready for your next delicious Hasselback adventure.
If there’s a downside, it’s that you need to be careful with your knife to avoid slipping, especially if you’re new to slicing like this. Also, the guide works best with larger potatoes—smaller ones can be tricky to secure properly.
Hasselback Potato & Veggie Slicing Rack Kitchen Tool
- ✓ Sturdy stainless steel build
- ✓ Safe and easy to use
- ✓ Multi-purpose kitchen tool
- ✕ Not dishwasher safe
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small drawers
| Material | Stainless steel and rubber wooden |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed to accommodate standard potatoes and vegetables |
| Safety Features | Pins to fix potatoes and metal grid to ensure knife safety |
| Application Range | Suitable for cutting potatoes, vegetables, eggs, onions, tomatoes, bread, avocados |
| Dishwasher Compatibility | Not recommended for dishwasher cleaning |
| Intended Use | Hasselback potato slicing and general food/vegetable cutting |
There was a certain charm to finally holding this Hasselback Potato & Veggie Slicing Rack after eyeing it for weeks. Its sleek stainless steel frame feels sturdy in your hand, and the rubber wooden accents give it a warm, natural touch.
I couldn’t wait to see if it truly made slicing potatoes easier and safer.
First thing I noticed is how well the pins on the plate hold the potato steady. No more wobbling or slipping mid-cut, which is a relief when you’re working with sharp knives.
The metal grid acts as a safety barrier, so you don’t have to worry about accidental cuts. It’s simple to align your potato and press down, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen.
Using it, I found the gaps between the slats perfect for letting flavors seep into the potato layers. The slices came out even and neat, making my Hasselback potatoes look restaurant-quality.
The tool’s versatility also surprised me—it’s great for slicing other veggies like tomatoes or even bread, which is handy for quick prep.
One thing I appreciated is that it feels durable, thanks to the stainless steel construction. But I’d avoid putting it in the dishwasher, as recommended, to keep it in top shape.
Overall, it’s a smart, efficient kitchen gadget that turns a potentially messy task into a breeze.
MUXIUNT Microwave Baked Potato Cooker BPA-Free
- ✓ Fast cooking in 10 minutes
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Limited to microwave use
- ✕ Slightly small capacity
| Material | Food-grade, BPA-free, heat-resistant plastic |
| Dimensions | 9.29 inches (L) x 7.72 inches (W) x 3.73 inches (H) |
| Cooking Method | Microwave steaming with steam valve and raised bottom for even heat distribution |
| Suitable Potatoes | Small, russet, red, gold potatoes, and other similar varieties |
| Capacity | Designed to steam multiple small to medium-sized potatoes at once |
| Additional Features | Lightweight, portable, dishwasher safe, includes instruction manual |
As I pulled the MUXIUNT Microwave Baked Potato Cooker out of the box, I immediately noticed how compact and lightweight it felt in my hand. The BPA-free, food-grade material gave me confidence that it was safe to use daily.
Setting it up was a breeze—just place your potatoes inside, close the lid, and you’re ready to go.
What really surprised me was how evenly it cooked my potatoes. The steam valve at the top and the raised bottom created a consistent steam cycle.
I didn’t have to poke holes or worry about uneven heating like I do with some microwave bags.
In just about 10 minutes, I had perfectly fluffy, soft potatoes with crispy skins—the kind that usually takes nearly an hour in the oven. The high-temperature airflow really made a difference.
Plus, the cooker’s size meant I could easily store it in my small kitchen or even take it camping.
Cleaning was simple: just rinse or toss it in the dishwasher. The fact that it works with different potato varieties, from russets to red potatoes, makes it versatile.
I even tried some topped with butter and sour cream, and they came out delicious every time.
Overall, this cooker has become my go-to for quick, tasty baked potatoes without the hassle of oven roasting. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, dorm life, or even travel.
It saves time, keeps the flavor intact, and is super convenient.
Hasselback Potato Slicing Rack with Onion & Tomato Cutter
- ✓ Easy to use and clean
- ✓ Creates evenly sliced potatoes
- ✓ Multi-purpose veggie cutter
- ✕ Not dishwasher safe
- ✕ Slightly bulky to store
| Material | Stainless steel with rubber wooden components |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but designed to accommodate standard potatoes and vegetables |
| Application Range | Suitable for cutting potatoes, onions, tomatoes, eggs, bread, avocados, and other vegetables |
| Design Features | Pins on the plate to fix potatoes, metal grid for even slicing |
| Dishwasher Compatibility | Not recommended for dishwasher cleaning |
| Intended Use | Hasselback potato preparation and versatile food slicing |
That hasselback potato slicer with the onion and tomato cutter has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love that perfect, layered look for baked potatoes. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it would really live up to the hype.
Spoiler: it does, and then some.
The first thing I noticed is how sturdy and well-made it feels. It’s made of stainless steel with a rubber wooden handle that’s comfortable to hold.
The pins on the plate keep the potato steady, so I didn’t have to worry about slipping. The metal grid slices evenly without crushing or tearing the potato apart.
Using it was surprisingly simple. I just placed a washed potato onto the pins, pressed down, and the blades did the work.
The slices came out uniform, which is key for even cooking and that beautiful presentation. Plus, I found the cutter doubles as a veggie chopper—perfect for onions, tomatoes, or even bread.
The onion and tomato cutter feature is a nice bonus, making prep faster. The tool also works great as a makeshift cutting board for small items.
Just a heads-up, it’s not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to keep it in top shape.
Overall, I love how this little gadget makes preparing hasselback potatoes a breeze. It saves time, ensures consistent slices, and adds a flavor-infusing touch.
If you enjoy that crispy, layered potato, this is a game changer.
Potato Express Microwave Cooker 4-Minute Potatoes
- ✓ Quick and easy
- ✓ Reusable fabric bag
- ✓ Cooks multiple potatoes
- ✕ Slight adjustment needed
- ✕ Limited to microwave use
| Capacity | Cooks up to 4 potatoes simultaneously |
| Cooking Time | Approximately 4 minutes for perfect potatoes |
| Material | Washable and reusable fabric bag |
| Compatibility | Suitable for all kinds of potatoes |
| Brand | Potato Express |
| Price | USD 14.99 |
It caught me off guard how effortlessly I managed to cook four potatoes at once in just four minutes. I was skeptical at first—thinking, “Can something this simple really work?”—but the Potato Express proved me wrong right out of the gate.
The fabric bag feels sturdy yet washable, making cleanup a breeze. I tossed in my potatoes, sealed the bag, and popped it in the microwave.
No fuss, no mess, and the potatoes came out steamy and perfectly cooked every time. I even tried different types—russets, yams, and red potatoes—and all were equally successful.
What really surprised me is how consistent the results are. No more uneven cooking or dried-out spuds.
Plus, it’s great knowing I can cook up to four potatoes at once, saving me time on busy weeknights.
The design is straightforward, and the fabric feels durable. I like that it’s reusable, saving me money and waste.
The only thing to keep in mind is that I had to adjust cooking times slightly for larger or smaller potatoes.
All in all, this little cooker is a game-changer for quick, reliable potato prep. It’s perfect for making Hasselback potatoes in the oven afterward, knowing your spuds are cooked to perfection in no time.
What Makes a Potato Ideal for Hasselback Preparation?
Consistent shape is crucial for achieving uniform cooking and presentation; irregularly shaped potatoes can lead to uneven cuts and varying cooking times. Selecting potatoes that are relatively round or oval helps maintain the integrity of the Hasselback style.
Lastly, freshness plays a significant role in the outcome of the dish; selecting firm and blemish-free potatoes ensures that the final product has a superior taste and texture. Fresh potatoes also tend to hold up better during the slicing process.
What Are the Best Varieties of Potatoes for Hasselback in the Oven?
The best varieties of potatoes for Hasselback in the oven include:
- Yukon Gold: Yukon Gold potatoes are a popular choice due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Their thin skin crisps up beautifully when baked, while the insides remain fluffy, making them ideal for absorbing seasonings and toppings.
- Russet: Russet potatoes are known for their high starch content, which results in a light and airy interior when cooked. Their rugged exterior can develop a deliciously crispy crust, making them perfect for the classic Hasselback presentation.
- Red Potatoes: Red potatoes have a waxy texture that holds their shape well during cooking. Their smooth, thin skin adds a pleasant texture and flavor, and they work well with a variety of seasonings, making them a versatile option for Hasselback preparations.
- Fingerling: Fingerling potatoes are small and elongated, providing a unique twist on the traditional Hasselback style. Their distinct shape allows for creative presentation, and they have a rich, nutty flavor that enhances any dish.
- New Potatoes: New potatoes are young, small potatoes that are harvested early in the season. Their tender skin and creamy flesh make them delightful when baked, and they are often less starchy, resulting in a slightly different texture that can be quite enjoyable.
How Do Starchy Potatoes Impact the Texture of Hasselback?
The best potatoes for Hasselback dishes are starchy varieties that significantly enhance texture and flavor when roasted.
- Russet Potatoes: Known for their high starch content, Russet potatoes create a fluffy interior when cooked. Their thick skin crisps up beautifully, providing a delightful contrast to the soft flesh inside, making them ideal for Hasselback preparations.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a medium starch content and a buttery flavor that enhances the overall dish. Their waxy texture allows them to hold their shape well during cooking, resulting in a creamy interior that pairs wonderfully with the crispy edges achieved through the Hasselback method.
- Idaho Potatoes: Similar to Russets, Idaho potatoes are starchy and yield a light and fluffy texture when roasted. They are particularly good for achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside, making them an excellent choice for Hasselback potatoes.
- Maris Piper Potatoes: A popular choice in the UK, Maris Piper potatoes offer a great balance between starch and moisture. This variety crisps up nicely while remaining fluffy on the inside, ensuring a delicious experience when sliced Hasselback style.
Are Waxy Potatoes a Better Choice for Hasselback?
The best potatoes for Hasselback are those that can achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior, and waxy potatoes often excel in this regard.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Known for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, Yukon Golds hold their shape well when baked. Their thin skin crisps nicely, making them ideal for the Hasselback method, providing a delicious contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft interior.
- Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are waxy with a smooth skin and are less starchy than their russet counterparts. This quality helps them maintain their shape during cooking, resulting in a delightful bite when sliced and baked Hasselback-style, as they absorb flavors well from seasonings and toppings.
- New Potatoes: These are young potatoes harvested before they reach maturity, typically small and tender with a thin skin. Their natural sweetness and waxy texture make them perfect for Hasselback preparation, allowing for even cooking and a tender, flavorful outcome.
- Fingerling Potatoes: Fingerlings are small, elongated potatoes that come in various colors and have a rich, nutty flavor. Their unique shape allows for creative Hasselback presentations, and their waxy flesh ensures they hold their structure while providing a satisfying texture after baking.
How Do Size and Shape Affect Hasselback Potato Cooking?
Shape: Round or oval-shaped potatoes tend to hold their structure better during cooking, allowing for uniform slicing and a pleasing appearance. Irregular or elongated shapes may not slice as cleanly, which can lead to uneven cooking and less attractive presentation.
Variety: The best potatoes for Hasselback in the oven are often starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they become fluffy inside while maintaining a crisp exterior. Waxy varieties, while they hold their shape well, may not provide the same level of fluffiness and are generally less ideal for this cooking method.
What Tips Can Help You Perfectly Prepare Hasselback Potatoes?
The best tips for perfectly preparing Hasselback potatoes include selecting the right type of potato, ensuring proper slicing technique, and choosing the ideal seasoning and cooking method.
- Choosing the Right Potatoes: The best potatoes for Hasselback are often medium to large-sized starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties have a fluffy texture when cooked and can hold up well to the slicing method.
- Proper Slicing Technique: To achieve the signature fan-like appearance, carefully slice the potatoes without cutting all the way through, leaving about a quarter-inch at the bottom. Using wooden spoons on either side can help prevent slicing too deeply.
- Seasoning: Before baking, brush the potatoes with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, or herbs for additional flavor. The seasoning will penetrate the slices during cooking, enhancing the overall taste.
- Cooking Method: Bake the potatoes in a preheated oven at a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C), for a crispy exterior and tender interior. Basting them with butter or oil halfway through cooking can help achieve a golden finish.
- Finishing Touches: After baking, consider topping your Hasselback potatoes with cheese, bacon bits, or fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.