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### **Instructions**
#### **1. Prepare the Potatoes**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
– Wash and scrub the **potatoes** well to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
– Using a sharp knife, carefully make thin slices along the length of each potato, being careful not to cut all the way through. The slices should be about 1/8-inch apart, leaving about 1/4 inch at the bottom of the potato so that the slices stay intact.
– You can place a spoon or chopsticks on either side of the potato while slicing to prevent cutting all the way through.
#### **2. Prepare the Bacon**
– While the potatoes are being prepared, cook the **bacon** in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and drain it on a paper towel to absorb the excess grease.
– Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces. You’ll want small bacon bits to fit easily between the potato slices.
#### **3. Stuff the Potatoes with Bacon**
– Drizzle the **olive oil** or **melted butter** over the potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated. Season with a little **salt** and **pepper**.
– Using your fingers or a spoon, gently separate the slices of the potato and stuff them with the **bacon** bits. Be generous with the bacon for that perfect, savory bite in every slice.
#### **4. Bake the Potatoes**
– Place the stuffed potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The edges of the potatoes should be golden and crispy, and the bacon should be perfectly cooked.
#### **5. Add the Cheese**
– Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the **shredded cheddar cheese** (or your choice of cheese) over the top of each potato, making sure the cheese gets in between the slices.
– Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
#### **6. Garnish and Serve**
– Once the cheese is melted and the potatoes are fully cooked, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped **chives** or **parsley** for a pop of color and freshness.
– Serve the **Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes** with a dollop of **sour cream** if desired, or as a standalone dish.
### **Health Benefits of Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes**
While this recipe is definitely indulgent, it’s still a comforting, wholesome dish. Potatoes are a great source of **vitamin C**, **potassium**, and **fiber**, while **bacon** provides protein and healthy fats in moderation. To make this dish even healthier, you can reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon, or opt for a lower-fat cheese.
The addition of fresh herbs like **chives** or **parsley** adds some extra nutrients and freshness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the bacon and cheese.
### **Customizations and Variations**
– **Cheese Options**: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like **mozzarella**, **Swiss**, **parmesan**, or even a blend of your favorites to create a custom flavor.
– **Add Vegetables**: Add sautéed **onions**, **garlic**, or **mushrooms** to the bacon stuffing for extra flavor and texture.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some **red pepper flakes** on top before baking, or add a layer of **jalapeños** between the potato slices.
– **Herb Infusion**: Try adding fresh **rosemary** or **thyme** to the bacon stuffing or sprinkle over the top of the potatoes for an aromatic, herb-infused touch.
### **Serving Suggestions**
– These **Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes** are the perfect side dish to serve with any roasted or grilled meats, such as **steak**, **chicken**, or **pork chops**.
– Serve them alongside a fresh, crisp **salad** to balance out the richness of the potatoes.
– These potatoes can also be served as a main course for a lighter meal, paired with a creamy dip or served with a veggie side.
### **Conclusion**
**Bacon-Filled Hasselback Potatoes** take the classic potato dish to a whole new level, combining crispy bacon, melty cheese, and perfectly roasted potatoes in each satisfying bite. With their crispy edges and tender interior, these potatoes are a guaranteed hit at any dinner table. Whether you’re making them for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or just as a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
So, grab some potatoes and bacon, and get ready to enjoy a savory, comforting dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!
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