Cheesy Ham Hasselback Potatoes

Cheesy Ham Hasselback Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 8 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of ham, cut into thin strips
• 8 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss), cut into strips
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Wash and peel the potatoes if desired (you can leave the skins on if you prefer).
   • Place each potato on a cutting board and lay a wooden spoon or chopsticks on either side to prevent cutting all the way through.
   • Slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8-inch thick, making sure not to cut all the way through. The slices should stay connected at the bottom.
2. Season the Potatoes:
   • In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Place the potatoes in a baking dish.
   • Brush the butter mixture over the potatoes, making sure to get some into the slices.
3. Bake the Potatoes:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
   • After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and starting to crisp up.
4. Add the Cheese and Ham:
   • Carefully insert the cheese and ham strips into the slices of the potatoes.
   • Once all the potatoes are stuffed, return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the potatoes are crispy.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.

Tips:

• You can customize the filling with different types of cheese, bacon instead of ham, or even add some sliced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• For a richer flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes before the final bake.

These Cheesy Ham Hasselback Potatoes are not only a feast for the eyes but also incredibly delicious, with crispy edges, tender centers, and the wonderful flavors of ham and cheese in every bite. Enjoy!