Smoky Potato Cake with Cheddar and Chives
A savory potato cake with melted cheddar and fresh chives, baked until golden and crisp on the outside with a tender interior. This irish-inspired vegetarian ready in about 70 minutes layers russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh chives into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 6, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes
- 3/4 cup, shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons, finely chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup whole milk
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and grate 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes using a box grater, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup whole milk. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Press mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch cast-iron skillet, creating an even layer about 3/4 inch thick. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown and crisp around the edges, then let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Smoky Potato Cake with Cheddar and Chives take to make?
Total time is about 70 minutes (25 min prep + 45 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Smoky Potato Cake with Cheddar and Chives?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Smoky Potato Cake with Cheddar and Chives?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Smoky Potato Cake with Cheddar and Chives for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Smoky Potato Cake with Cheddar and Chives?
Irish vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
This has become our go-to vegetarian dish. We make it weekly.
- ★★★★★
Made with what I had on hand and it still came out great.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.








