Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4–6

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and grated (about 4–5 cups)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works beautifully)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to a hot 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or a round baking pan with a bit of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and help create a wonderfully crisp bottom.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Using a box grater or a food processor, peel and grate your potatoes. Now for the most important step: place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as you possibly can. Getting rid of the excess water is the secret to achieving a perfectly crispy, non-soggy base. Once squeezed, transfer the dry potato shreds to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 3: Form the Potato Base

Spread the seasoned potato mixture onto your prepared baking sheet or press it firmly into your round pan. Aim for a flat, even layer that’s about 1/4-inch thick. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to pat it down, ensuring it’s compact. For an extra golden finish, you can drizzle a little more olive oil over the top.

Step 4: The First Bake

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be beautifully golden brown and crispy. If you’re using a baking sheet, you can carefully flip the entire potato base with a large spatula to check the underside. If using a pan, just ensure the top is crisp and set.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Once the base is golden and crisp, remove it from the oven. Generously sprinkle your shredded cheese evenly over the entire surface. Return it to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, just until the cheese is gloriously melted, bubbly, and slightly browned in spots.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve Hot

Let your golden potato bake cool for just a minute or two before garnishing with fresh, chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Slice it into wedges like a pizza or into squares, and serve immediately while it’s warm and the cheese is perfectly stretchy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Satisfying: Grating the potatoes and squeezing them dry guarantees a base that crisps up beautifully in the oven, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft, cheesy topping.
• Incredibly Versatile: Think of this as a blank canvas. While amazing on its own, you can add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or different herbs to make it your own.
• Simple & Budget-Friendly: Made with just a few pantry staples, this dish proves that you don’t need expensive ingredients to create a truly delicious and comforting meal.