Hasselback Potatoes with Seasoned Breadcrumbs

Hasselback potatoes, with none of the actual hassle. They're easy, and oh-so-delicious.

Makes: 8 servings
Serving Size: 1 potato
Yields: 8 potatoes
Prep: 30 mins
Bake: 55 mins to 1 hr 375°F
Broil: 2 mins to 3 mins

Ingredients

• 8 medium russet potatoes (6 to 8 ounces each)
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons seasoned fine dry bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives
• 1 teaspoon snipped fresh thyme

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Fill a large bowl with water. Place potatoes in water bowl. Gather two 1/2-inch-thick chopsticks or two 1/2-inch-thick wooden spoons; set aside.
2. For potatoes, slice a thin slice, lengthwise from the bottom of each potato, so they can stand without rolling on the cutting board. Arrange chopsticks or wooden spoons lengthwise on opposite sides of one potato on the cutting board. Slice potato crosswise into 1/8-inch-thick slices, stopping the knife when it reaches the chopsticks or the wooden spoons to prevent slicing all the way through. Return sliced potato to water bowl. Repeat with remaining potatoes.
3. Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil; grease foil. Drain potatoes well and pat dry. Arrange potatoes in the prepared baking pan. Brush evenly with 2 tablespoons of the melted butter and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Cover with foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes more or until tender. Remove from oven. Turn oven to broil.
4. Preheat broiler. In a small bowl stir together bread crumbs, cheese, chives, thyme, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sprinkle potatoes evenly with crumb mixture. Slowly and carefully spoon on remaining 3 tablespoons melted butter, being sure to cover all of the crumb mixture.
5. Broil potatoes 4 to 5 inches from the heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until topping is golden. Serve immediately.

TO MAKE AHEAD: Prepare potatoes as directed through Step 2. Cover bowl and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Drain potatoes well.