Sliced Potato Cake

Introduction

Sliced Potato Cake is a beautifully layered dish that transforms humble potatoes into an impressive centerpiece. Thinly sliced potatoes are arranged in overlapping layers, seasoned with herbs and spices, and baked until golden and crisp on the outside, yet tender and creamy on the inside. The result is a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, with every slice revealing the intricate, golden layers of perfectly cooked potatoes.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for a creative way to serve potatoes at a dinner party. Its elegant presentation and rustic charm instantly won me over. The crispy edges and soft, buttery center make it a perfect balance of textures, while the simplicity of seasoning—salt, pepper, and perhaps a hint of garlic or thyme—allows the natural flavor of the potatoes to shine.

What I love most about Sliced Potato Cake is its versatility. You can make it with just potatoes and butter for a minimalist approach or add grated cheese, caramelized onions, or herbs for extra flair. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to impress with its taste and presentation.

Perfect for:

Festive gatherings
Holiday dinners
Potluck parties
Cozy family meals
Potato lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Sliced Potato Cake will become your go-to recipe for a crowd-pleasing side dish:

Crispy and Golden: The outer layer turns perfectly crispy, offering a satisfying crunch.
Tender Inside: The thinly sliced potatoes bake into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Flavorful Layers: Butter, cheese, and herbs are layered for an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples to create something extraordinary.
Elegant Presentation: Its layered structure and golden crust make it visually stunning.
Perfect Side Dish: Pairs well with almost any main course, from roast chicken to steak.
Customizable Flavors: Add garlic, or other cheeses to suit your taste.
Great for Sharing: Serves a crowd, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 36g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

For the Potato Cake:

2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

Fresh thyme sprigs
Extra Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

Yukon Gold Potatoes: Known for their creamy texture and rich flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the potatoes.
Fresh Thyme: Infuses the dish with earthy, aromatic notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or cast-iron skillet.
Slice Potatoes: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice the potatoes evenly.

Assemble the Potato Cake:

Layer Potatoes: Arrange a single layer of potato slices in a circular pattern in the pan, overlapping slightly.
Brush with Butter: Drizzle or brush melted butter over the potato layer.
Season: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Repeat Layers: Continue layering potatoes, butter, and seasoning until all ingredients are used, finishing with butter and Parmesan on top.

Bake the Potato Cake:

Cover and Bake: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
Uncover and Crisp: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Cool Slightly: Let the potato cake rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve:

Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh thyme and additional Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Sliced Potato Cake:

As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted meats or grilled fish.
With a Green Salad: Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
For Breakfast: Top with a fried egg for a hearty morning treat.
At Holiday Feasts: Include as a side for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
With Soups or Stews: Complements hearty dishes like beef stew or creamy soups.
As an Appetizer: Serve small slices as a warm starter.
With Dips: Pair with sour cream or garlic aioli for added flavor.
With Gravy: Drizzle with pan gravy for a rich, comforting addition.
For Potluck Parties: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to transport.

Additional Tips

Use the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they yield a creamier texture when baked.
Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking and layering.
Pre-Cook Potatoes (Optional): Parboil or microwave the sliced potatoes for a few minutes to reduce baking time and ensure tenderness.
Season Generously: Season each layer with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary to ensure the flavor penetrates every bite.
Add a Crispy Top Layer: Sprinkle the top layer with grated cheese, breadcrumbs, or a combination of both for a golden, crispy finish.
Incorporate Layers of Flavor: Alternate layers with cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or sautéed garlic for added complexity.
Use a Non-Stick Pan: A well-greased or parchment-lined pan ensures the potato cake doesn’t stick and makes it easier to remove and serve.
Press and Compact: Gently press down on the layers before baking to ensure a cohesive, cake-like structure.
Bake Low and Slow: Cook at a moderate temperature (around 350°F/175°C) to allow the potatoes to cook thoroughly and the flavors to meld.
Let It Rest: Allow the potato cake to cool slightly after baking. This helps it firm up and makes slicing cleaner and easier.

Recipe Variations

Cheddar Potato Cake: Use sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
Herb and Garlic: Add minced garlic and mixed herbs like rosemary or parsley.
Spicy Version: Sprinkle chili flakes between layers for a kick of heat.
Vegan Option: Replace butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Loaded Potato Cake: Add cooked bacon bits and chives between layers.
Sweet Potato Cake: Substitute Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter profile.
Layered Veggies: Alternate with thinly sliced zucchini or carrots.
Crispy Bacon Topping: Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top before serving.

Special Equipment

Mandoline Slicer – Ensures even and thin potato slices for consistent baking.
Mixing Bowl – For combining ingredients like potatoes, seasonings, and cream.
Ovenproof Baking Dish – Holds the layered potato mixture and withstands high heat.
Silicone Spatula – For spreading the mixture evenly without scratching the dish.
Pastry Brush – To apply butter or oil on layers for added flavor and crispness.
Non-Stick Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Box Grater – For grating cheese or nutmeg to add flavor to the cake.
Food Processor (Optional) – To make a smooth mixture of ingredients like garlic, herbs, or cream.
Chef’s Knife – To trim potatoes or slice them if you don’t have a mandoline.
Kitchen Scale – Ensures precise measurement of ingredients for the best results.

FAQ Section

What is a sliced potato cake?
A sliced potato cake is a savory dish made from layers of thinly sliced potatoes, often baked with ingredients like cheese, cream, herbs, or spices, to create a delicious and satisfying dish.
What are the main ingredients in a sliced potato cake?
The primary ingredients are potatoes, butter or oil, seasonings, and optional add-ins like cheese, cream, onions, or fresh herbs.
Can I make a vegan or dairy-free sliced potato cake?
Yes! Substitute dairy products with plant-based options such as coconut cream, almond milk, or vegan cheese.
What type of potatoes should I use?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose varieties such as Yukon Golds work best for a creamy texture and proper binding.
How do I ensure even cooking of the potato cake?
Slice the potatoes uniformly using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. This ensures even cooking and prevents raw spots.
Can I prepare the potato cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cake up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh before serving or reheat thoroughly.
How do I prevent the potato cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease your baking dish well with butter or oil and consider lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
What are some variations I can try?
You can add caramelized onions, shredded cheese, or different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika for extra flavor.
How long does it take to bake a sliced potato cake?
Typically, it takes about 45-60 minutes in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C), depending on the thickness of the layers.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Sliced Potato Cake is a stunning and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping centerpiece. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered and baked until tender and golden, creating a beautiful, crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior. Infused with savory herbs, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, this dish delivers a perfect balance of crispy and creamy textures in every bite.

Ideal for brunches, holiday gatherings, or as a side to complement roasted meats or vegetables, Sliced Potato Cake is as versatile as it is delicious. Customize it by adding grated cheese between the layers, a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky flavor, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

I’d love to see your Sliced Potato Cake creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to admire your beautiful and delicious work. Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me how you made this dish uniquely yours!