Crispy Accordion Sweet Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter

These crispy accordion sweet potatoes are a showstopper side dish that looks like gourmet art but comes together with a simple cutting trick. The thin accordion cuts create hundreds of crispy edges that caramelize in the oven, while a warm garlic herb butter seeps into every fold for rich, savory flavor. Perfect for holiday dinners or a special weeknight treat.

Accordion sweet potatoes, also known as Hasselback sweet potatoes, are a fun and impressive way to serve this humble root vegetable. By slicing the potatoes thinly while leaving the bottom intact, they fan out during roasting, exposing more surface area to the heat.

This means more crispy, caramelized edges and a tender, fluffy interior. The garlic herb butter, made with fresh rosemary and thyme, adds a fragrant, savory note that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The accordion cut is the key to this recipe's incredible texture. By making thin, even slices, you dramatically increase the surface area of the potato, allowing more edges to crisp up in the hot oven.

The chopstick guides ensure you don't cut all the way through, so the potato holds together while still opening up like a fan. This technique turns a simple side dish into a textural wonderland of crispy shards and creamy centers.

Roasting at high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, creating deep, complex flavors. The olive oil and sea salt help the edges crisp and season every bite.

The garlic herb butter, drizzled over the hot potatoes, melts into the crevices, adding richness and aromatic herbs that balance the sweetness. The result is a dish that's both elegant and comforting, with a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.

Notes and substitutions

Choose sweet potatoes that are similar in size and shape for even cooking. Medium, oblong potatoes work best for the accordion cut. If you have very thick potatoes, you may need to increase the roasting time. The chopsticks are essential for guiding your knife and preventing accidental cuts through the bottom. If you don't have chopsticks, you can use wooden skewers or even two pencils.

The garlic herb butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, use fresh herbs, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch—just use half the amount.

If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness; if you don't have it, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne will work.

• fresh rosemary & thyme: Use 1 tsp dried Italian herb blend or dried rosemary and thyme, reducing the amount by half.
• smoked paprika: Regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne for heat can replace smoked paprika.
• sea salt flakes: Kosher salt or fine sea salt can be used; reduce the amount if using fine salt.
• butter: For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter or olive oil for the herb sauce.

Equipment

• 2 chopsticks
• Sharp chef's knife
• Small saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowl