Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte

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🥔🌿 Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes

⭐ Ingredients

  • 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold recommended)
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional:
    • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
    • Extra thyme for garnish

🥣 Instructions

1. Prep the pan

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
  • Line the bottom of a 9-inch cast-iron skillet or round cake pan with parchment.
  • Brush the parchment and sides with 1 tbsp olive oil.

2. Make the seasoning mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Melted butter
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Garlic
  • Thyme
  • Salt & pepper

This will coat the potato slices for flavor and browning.

3. Slice the potatoes

  • Thinly slice potatoes ⅛ inch thick, preferably using a mandoline for even layers.
  • Pat slices dry with a clean towel to help them crisp.

4. Build the torte

  • Add potato slices to the seasoning mixture and toss well to coat.
  • Layer the potatoes in the pan, overlapping them in a circular pattern like flower petals.
  • Press down gently after every few layers.
  • (Optional) Sprinkle a little Parmesan between layers for an extra-savory crust.

5. Bake

  • Cover the pan tightly with foil.
  • Bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove foil, increase heat to 425°F (220°C), and bake another 20–25 minutes until the edges are deeply crisp and the center is tender.

6. Crisp the bottom (optional but amazing)

Place the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat for 3–5 minutes to give the bottom layer a golden crust.

7. Rest & serve

  • Let the torte rest 10 minutes.
  • Run a spatula around the edges to loosen, then invert onto a plate or cutting board.
  • Garnish with extra thyme and a drizzle of balsamic if desired.
  • Slice into wedges and serve warm.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with:

  • Roast chicken
  • Seared steak
  • Salmon or baked white fish
  • Holiday dinners
  • A simple mixed-green salad

🔄 Variations

  • Cheesy: Add Gruyère, Parmesan, or Asiago between layers.
  • Herby: Add rosemary or sage with the thyme.
  • Balsamic-Onion: Add thinly sliced caramelized onions between layers.
  • Garlic-Butter: Increase garlic to 4 cloves and add more butter for richness.

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