Name: Mini Hasselback Potatoes with Zesty Cajun Dip Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 12-15 small Mini potatoes (perfect for slicing and roasting); 3 tablespoons Olive oil (for crispy finish); 1 tablespoon Sea salt (enhances flavor); 1 tablespoon Ground black pepper (for savory kick); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (adds fragrance); 1 teaspoon Onion powder (for subtle sweetness); 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); 1/2 cup Sour cream (creamy base); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (adds richness); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (for bold flavor); 1 teaspoon Lemon juice (brightens the dip); Salt and pepper (to taste)

Stepping into my kitchen, the irresistible aroma of golden, crispy potatoes fills the air, instantly making my heart flutter with excitement. Today, I'm thrilled to share my quick and delightful recipe for Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes with Cajun Dip. These little gems are not just about their incredible taste; they’re also a total crowd-pleaser—perfect for impressing friends or brightening up any dinner table. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a fun twist on a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal. Plus, the Cajun dip adds a bold kick that makes every bite memorable. Ready to elevate your potato game? Let’s dive in!

Why are Mini Hasselback Potatoes a Must-Try?

Unique Presentation: Mini Hasselback potatoes are not only delicious but beautifully arranged, making them a feast for the eyes on any table.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of salt, pepper, and seasonings creates a flavor that’s both rich and satisfying, while the Cajun dip adds a zesty twist.
Effortlessly Simple: With just 20 minutes of prep, this recipe is easy enough for anyone, even those new to cooking.
Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized delights are ideal for gatherings, be it a casual weeknight dinner or a festive party.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or dips, turning this dish into a versatile favorite.
Crowd-Pleasing: Trust me, folks will be asking for seconds—these potatoes are simply irresistible!

Mini Hasselback Potatoes Ingredients

Get ready to create magic with these crispy delights!

For the Potatoes

Mini potatoes – 12-15 small gems perfect for slicing and roasting.
Olive oil – 3 tablespoons to ensure a crispy, golden finish.
Sea salt – 1 tablespoon enhances the flavors and adds crunch.
Ground black pepper – 1 tablespoon for a savory kick that complements the dish.
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon adds a fragrant depth to the potatoes.
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon brings a subtle sweetness that balances the seasonings.
Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped for garnish and a touch of freshness.

For the Cajun Dip

Sour cream – ½ cup forms the creamy base of this zesty dip.
Mayonnaise – ¼ cup adds richness that complements the sour cream perfectly.
Cajun seasoning – 1 tablespoon infuses the dip with a bold, spicy flavor.
Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon brightens up the dip, enhancing the overall taste.
Salt and pepper – To taste, ensuring your dip is seasoned just right.

These Mini Hasselback Potatoes paired with the zesty dip will surely steal the show at your next meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving those golden, crispy edges on your Mini Hasselback Potatoes. While waiting for the oven to heat up, gather your ingredients and ensure that everything is within reach for easy access during preparation.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and dry the mini potatoes, ensuring they are completely clean. Carefully slice each potato thinly, stopping about ¼ inch from the bottom to hold the slices together. This technique creates lovely fans that will crisp up beautifully. Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl for further seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes in Oil
Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the sliced potatoes in the bowl. Gently toss them to coat each potato evenly with the oil. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious crispness we crave in Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Make sure to cover all sides so they roast perfectly in the oven.

Step 4: Season Generously
Sprinkle the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the oiled potatoes. Toss the potatoes again to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This blend of spices will enhance the flavor, giving your Mini Hasselback Potatoes a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ease cleanup. Carefully space the seasoned Mini Hasselback Potatoes apart on the sheet. This spacing is essential for allowing each potato to roast evenly, resulting in those crispy edges everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 30-35 minutes. You'll know they are done when the edges are golden brown and the potatoes are fork-tender. Enjoy the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen as they cook to perfection.

Step 7: Prepare the Cajun Dip
While the potatoes bake, mix together ½ cup of sour cream, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in a medium bowl. Stir until smooth, tasting to adjust salt and pepper as needed. This zesty dip will wonderfully complement your Mini Hasselback Potatoes!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are finished baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle any remaining oil over the top for extra flavor and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Arrange the crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes on a platter, and serve with the Cajun dip on the side for an irresistible snack or side dish!

Storage Tips for Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Fridge: Keep any leftover Mini Hasselback Potatoes stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked potatoes on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer bag and enjoy up to 2 months later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen Mini Hasselback Potatoes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re crispy and heated through. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option!

Serving Tip: If possible, re-drizzle a little olive oil before reheating to help regain that delicious crispy texture you love!

Mini Hasselback Potatoes Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine and make these delightful potatoes your own!

Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream and mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt. This gives the dip a creamy texture without dairy.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the olive oil mixture before tossing the potatoes. These aromatic additions can elevate flavor and promise a delightful twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Cajun dip for those who crave a fiery bite. A little heat can transform the dish into a thrilling experience!
Cheesy: Sprinkle grated parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes in the last 5 minutes of baking to create a melty, irresistible topping. Cheese lovers will adore this variation!
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a sweet balsamic reduction over the finished potato dish to complement the savory notes and add a depth of flavor. This beautiful touch will impress your guests!
Veggie Loaded: Top the baked potatoes with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or green onions for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor. It's a great way to sneak in more veggies!
Smoky Flavor: Mix in smoked paprika with the seasonings for a pleasantly smoky flavor profile. It pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture and makes for a memorable bite.
Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of a lemon or lime to your Cajun dip to brighten up the flavor profile. This citrus twist will awaken your taste buds and bring freshness to the dish!

These variations promise to keep your Mini Hasselback Potatoes exciting and thoroughly enjoyable. For more delicious dip ideas, check out our guide on how to make a creamy ranch dip!

What to Serve with Salt & Pepper Mini Hasselback Potatoes

These delightful, crispy mini gems deserve some equally enticing companions to create a well-rounded meal experience.

Creamy Coleslaw: A crisp, refreshing coleslaw adds a vibrant crunch and balances the richness of the potatoes and dip beautifully. The cool creaminess will make each bite feel like a picnic in paradise.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sweet, succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter not only brings a touch of elegance but also pairs perfectly with the spicy Cajun dip. This dish elevates your meal to a restaurant-worthy experience.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, seasoned chicken skewers offer a delightful protein contrast. Which you can easily marinate with herbs or a touch of spice, complementing the flavorful potatoes brilliantly.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, adds a pop of color and natural sweetness, enhancing the dish's overall taste profile.
Crispy on-the-Side Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and lemon bring a fresh element and maintain a satisfying crunch alongside the crispy potatoes.
Iced Tea: A pitcher of freshly brewed iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, transports you to a warm, inviting summer day. The refreshing sips will cleanse your palate beautifully between bites.
Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, a rich chocolate mousse is the perfect end to your meal. It provides a decadent contrast to the savory flavors of the potatoes, leaving everyone with a memorable taste of indulgence.

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Hasselback Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can wash and slice the mini potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the Cajun dip up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and freshness. When you're ready to bake, simply drain and pat the potatoes dry, toss them with olive oil and seasonings, then follow the baking instructions as usual. This way, you get crispy, delicious Mini Hasselback Potatoes with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

Expert Tips for Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Cut with Care: Use a sharp knife for slicing, ensuring to stop at the right depth. This keeps the slices intact while allowing them to crisp up beautifully.
Oil Generously: Don’t skimp on olive oil; it’s essential for that golden, crispy texture. Coat every potato to prevent dryness during baking.
Season Evenly: When adding salt and spices, make sure to sprinkle evenly over the potatoes and toss well. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on them while baking. They should be fork-tender and golden. Overbaking can lead to a tough texture, so set a timer!
Customize Your Dip: Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning levels in the dip or add extra herbs for a personalized touch. More spice equals more fun!
Serve Warm: Enjoy your Mini Hasselback Potatoes fresh from the oven for the best texture. The crispiness is part of their charm, especially when paired with that zesty dip!

Mini Hasselback Potatoes with Cajun Dip Recipe FAQs

What kind of potatoes should I use for Mini Hasselback Potatoes?
Absolutely! I recommend using small, waxy potatoes like baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes. These hold their shape well during cooking and develop a deliciously crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, as they may not slice as nicely or hold up during baking.

How should I store leftover Mini Hasselback Potatoes?
To keep your leftover Mini Hasselback Potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. This way, you can enjoy their delightful flavor later in the week without losing any tastiness. Just make sure they are cooled down before sealing to avoid any sogginess!

Can I freeze Mini Hasselback Potatoes?
Of course! For freezing, first bake your Mini Hasselback Potatoes as directed. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Next, place them in the freezer until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. You can store them for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're crispy again.

Why did my Mini Hasselback Potatoes come out mushy?
Very! If your potatoes turned out mushy, it might be due to overbaking or the type of potato used. Ensure you don’t slice them too thin, as thinner cuts will cook faster and may become soggy. Additionally, watch the baking time closely; they should be golden and fork-tender, not falling apart.

Can I adjust the seasonings in the Cajun dip?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the Cajun dip to suit your taste. You can add more Cajun seasoning for an extra kick, or incorporate fresh herbs like chives or dill for a unique flavor twist. A pinch of smoked paprika can also elevate the seasoning. Tailoring the dip makes it even more delightful for your palate!

Are Mini Hasselback Potatoes suitable for pets?
It's best to avoid sharing Mini Hasselback Potatoes with your pets, especially with added ingredients like salt and seasonings, which can be harmful to them. Plain, cooked potatoes without any seasoning can be okay in moderation for some pets, but always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to their diet.