Savory Potato Cake with Bacon and Cheese

Introduction

Savory potato cake with bacon and cheese is the kind of comforting dish that instantly brings people together around the table. Rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and melted cheese into a single baked dish that is both rustic and generous. Thanks to its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for family meals, casual gatherings, or cozy evenings when you want something nourishing and homemade.

Moreover, this potato cake strikes the perfect balance between crispness and softness. The top bakes to a golden crust, while the inside remains tender, creamy, and full of flavor. Because it can be served as a main dish or a hearty side, it adapts easily to many occasions. Whether paired with a green salad or enjoyed on its own, this savory potato cake is a timeless recipe that never goes out of style.

Background and Recipe Inspiration

Potato-based dishes have long been a staple of traditional home cooking across Europe. Affordable, filling, and versatile, potatoes were often combined with eggs, dairy, and cured meats to create nourishing meals for large families. Recipes like potato bakes, rustic gratins, and farmhouse cakes were designed to be simple yet satisfying, using ingredients that were readily available.

This savory potato cake follows that tradition closely. Unlike mashed or pre-cooked potato dishes, it uses raw diced potatoes, which slowly cook in the oven while absorbing the flavors of cream, eggs, bacon, and cheese. As a result, the texture becomes melt-in-the-mouth inside while developing a crisp, flavorful crust on top. Over time, variations of this dish have appeared in many regions, each adapting the type of cheese or seasoning to local tastes.

Ingredients

To prepare a savory potato cake with bacon and cheese for 4 to 6 people, you will need the following ingredients:

1 kg potatoes with firm flesh
200 g smoked bacon bits
150 to 200 g grated cheese (Emmental, Comté, or a mixture)
3 eggs
20 cl whole cream
1 onion (optional but recommended)
Salt
Black pepper
Butter for greasing the pan
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Then cut them into small, even cubes. Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and a tender final texture. The smaller the cubes, the more cohesive and melt-in-the-mouth the cake will be once baked.

Step 2: Fry the Bacon and Onion

Place the bacon bits in a frying pan over medium heat without adding any fat. Allow them to cook slowly until they release their fat and become lightly golden. If using an onion, finely chop it and add it to the pan. Cook gently until the onion becomes soft and translucent, then slightly golden. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg and Cream Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly. Add the whole cream and mix until smooth. Season with a small amount of salt, keeping in mind that the bacon already adds saltiness, and add black pepper generously. Stir well to combine everything into a smooth, lightly seasoned mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Potato Cake

Add the raw diced potatoes to the bowl with the egg and cream mixture. Then add the cooked bacon and onion, followed by the grated cheese. Mix thoroughly so that every piece of potato is well coated with the creamy mixture. This step is crucial, as it ensures even cooking and consistent flavor throughout the cake.

Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Pan

Generously butter a rectangular or square baking pan. Pour the potato mixture into the pan and spread it evenly. Press down gently with the back of a spoon to compact the mixture slightly. This helps the cake hold together when sliced after baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will cook through, the eggs will set, and the cheese will melt beautifully. The top should become golden brown and lightly crispy.

If the top is not browned enough at the end of baking, place the cake under the broiler for an additional 5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning, as this final step enhances the crust and visual appeal.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Once baked, remove the potato cake from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before cutting. This resting time allows the cake to firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly and serve neatly.

Nutritional Information

Savory potato cake with bacon and cheese is a hearty and nourishing dish that provides energy, protein, and essential nutrients. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, potassium, and fiber, making them both filling and nutritious. Eggs and cheese contribute high-quality protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health.

While bacon adds richness and flavor, it should be enjoyed in moderation. The cream provides a smooth texture and enhances satiety. When served with a fresh green salad, this dish becomes part of a balanced meal that combines comfort with nutritional value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Prepare This Potato Cake in Advance?

Yes, you can assemble the cake a few hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Allow it to come slightly closer to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Potatoes?

This recipe is designed for raw potatoes, which cook slowly and absorb flavor during baking. Using pre-cooked potatoes will change the texture and may result in a drier cake.

What Cheese Works Best for This Recipe?

Emmental and Comté are excellent choices because they melt well and provide a balanced flavor. However, Gruyère, Cheddar, or a mix of cheeses can also be used depending on preference.

How Do I Know When the Cake Is Fully Cooked?

The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center meets little resistance. The potatoes should be fully tender throughout.

Can This Dish Be Frozen?

It can be frozen after baking and cooling completely. However, the texture may be slightly softer after reheating. For best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Conclusion

Savory potato cake with bacon and cheese is a comforting, rustic recipe that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients cooked with care. Its golden crust, tender interior, and rich flavors make it a reliable favorite for family meals and casual entertaining. Moreover, its versatility allows it to be served as a main course or a hearty side dish.

By following these detailed steps and allowing the cake to rest before slicing, you can achieve a perfectly structured, flavorful dish every time. Ultimately, this recipe is a reminder that traditional, home-style cooking continues to offer some of the most satisfying meals, especially when shared with others.

Savory potato cake with bacon and melted cheese, golden brown on top and sliced into rustic portions

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