Smoky & Crispy: The Ultimate Idaho Russet Hasselback Potatoes on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

There is something undeniably magical about a potato that achieves the perfect duality of texture: shatteringly crisp on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. While the traditional oven-roasted Hasselback potato is a culinary staple, preparing this dish on an Arteflame grill elevates the humble Idaho Russet into a smoky, gourmet masterpiece that simply cannot be replicated indoors. The unique design of the Arteflame allows for a combination of searing heat and consistent roasting, ensuring that the accordion-style cuts fan out beautifully to catch every drop of savory butter. These grilled Hasselback potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a conversation starter. The open fire imparts a subtle wood-fired aroma that complements the rich garlic and herb infusion, making this recipe a must-try for any outdoor cooking enthusiast looking to impress their guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Ingredients

The Essentials

• 4 large Idaho Russet potatoes (scrubbed and dried)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Optional Garnish

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• Sour cream for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

1. Begin by thoroughly washing and scrubbing the Idaho Russet potatoes to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel; dry skin crisps up better.
2. Place a potato on a cutting board. To prevent cutting all the way through, place a wooden spoon handle or a chopstick on either side of the potato lengthwise.
3. Using a sharp knife, make thin slices across the potato, spaced about 1/8 inch apart. The chopsticks will stop the knife, keeping the base intact so the potato holds together.

Step 2: Creating the Basting Mixture

1. In a small heat-proof bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and rosemary.
2. Stir the mixture well to ensure the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed.
3. Generously brush the potatoes with this mixture, taking care to gently separate the slices so the butter drips deep into the crevices. Season the exterior with sea salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Firing Up the Arteflame

1. Build a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. Allow the coals to burn down slightly so you have a consistent heat source.
2. Lightly oil the flat top cooktop to prepare the surface for roasting. Aim for a medium-heat zone on the flat top, usually found halfway between the center grate and the outer edge.

Step 4: Grilling the Potatoes

1. Place the potatoes directly on the flat top cooktop. If you want to speed up the cooking process, you can cover them with a basting dome or aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes.
2. Roast the potatoes for 40 to 50 minutes total. Every 10 to 15 minutes, brush them with the remaining butter and herb mixture.
3. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should slide in easily with no resistance. The edges should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking so it melts and forms a crust.
2. Remove the potatoes from the grill and garnish with fresh chives immediately before serving.

Tips

Mastering the Hasselback potato on the grill requires a little bit of patience and heat management. The most crucial tip is utilizing the "chopstick trick" mentioned in the instructions; this ensures uniform cuts without accidentally slicing the potato in half, which is the most common mistake beginners make. Furthermore, temperature control on the Arteflame is key. Avoid placing the potatoes too close to the open fire in the center, as the delicate slices can burn before the inside is fully tender. Instead, utilize the varied heat zones of the plancha. Start them closer to the center to get the cooking momentum going, then move them slightly outward if the bottoms are browning too quickly. Finally, don't be shy with the basting. The fat is what fries the edges of the thin slices, giving you that irresistible potato-chip crunch.

Variations

While the classic garlic and herb butter version is a crowd-pleaser, the neutral canvas of an Idaho Russet potato allows for endless creativity. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different cuisines or dietary preferences. Here are a few distinct variations to try on your grill:

• The Loaded Baker: Top with crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream after grilling.
• Spicy Southwest: Swap the herbs for chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, then finish with cotija cheese and cilantro.
• Truffle Elegance: Use truffle oil instead of olive oil and finish with shaved parmesan for a high-end steakhouse vibe.
• Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute Russets for sweet potatoes and baste with cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple butter.
• Duck Fat Roast: Replace the butter mixture with rendered duck fat for the ultimate savory, crispy crust.

Best pairings

These Grilled Hasselback Potatoes are robust enough to stand on their own, yet they serve as the perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of proteins. Their smoky, buttery profile cuts through rich meats and complements lighter dishes alike. Because they take up minimal space on the Arteflame flat top, you can easily cook your main course alongside them. Consider these ideal pairings for a balanced outdoor feast:

• Ribeye Steak: The rich marbling of a ribeye pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the potatoes.
• Grilled Salmon: The herbs in the potato complement the fatty richness of cedar-plank or seared salmon.
• Lamb Chops: Rosemary and garlic are natural friends to lamb, creating a cohesive flavor profile.
• Roasted Chicken: A classic Sunday roast vibe, reimagined for the outdoor grill.

Conclusion

Creating Idaho Russet Hasselback potatoes on the Arteflame grill is a rewarding experience that transforms a simple vegetable into a show-stopping side dish. The process blends the rustic charm of open-fire cooking with the refined presentation of a high-end bistro. By following these steps, you achieve a texture that is impossible to replicate in a standard oven—smoky, incredibly crisp, and meltingly soft all at once. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a quiet dinner under the stars, this recipe promises to deliver flavor in every bite. So, fire up your grill, grab your best potatoes, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying comfort foods known to man.