Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte Recipe
This Crispy Balsamic-Thyme Potato Torte features thinly sliced potatoes layered and infused with a flavorful mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and fresh thyme. Baked until tender and topped with a crispy golden finish, it’s an elegant and comforting side dish perfect for any meal.
- Author: Natalie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Potatoes
- 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
Marinade
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a round baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Make Balsamic Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will flavor the potatoes deeply as they bake.
- Layer Potatoes and Balsamic Mixture – First Layer: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle half of the balsamic-thyme mixture over the potatoes to infuse the first layer with flavor.
- Layer Potatoes and Balsamic Mixture – Second Layer: Place the remaining potato slices over the first layer and drizzle the remaining balsamic mixture on top, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Steam the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This steaming step allows the potatoes to cook through and become tender while absorbing the marinade.
- Uncover and Crisp: Remove the foil, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes. This final step crisps the top to a golden brown, adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the torte to cool slightly after baking to set, then slice into wedges and serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme if fresh is unavailable, reducing the quantity to 1 teaspoon.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Make sure to slice potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Keywords: Potato torte, balsamic potatoes, crispy potato dish, thyme potatoes, baked potato side, Parmesan potato bake