Golden on the outside, tender on the inside, this Cast Iron Potato Kugel is a savory comfort dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Baked to perfection in a hot skillet, it’s a rustic and satisfying twist on the classic potato casserole. With simple ingredients and bold textures, this kugel is perfect as a hearty side dish or a cozy vegetarian main.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Skillet Finish – Baking in a cast iron skillet creates irresistible golden edges.
Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples like potatoes, onions, and eggs.
Great for Meal Prep – Holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Comfort Food Classic – Earthy, rich, and perfect for holidays or weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 medium onion, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
- Optional: ½ tsp baking powder for fluffier texture
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep the Skillet
Place your cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C). Let it get hot while you prep the kugel.
2. Grate and Drain
Grate potatoes and onion, then place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
3. Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine drained potato-onion mixture with eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Mix until well combined.
4. Add Oil to Hot Skillet
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the oil, swirling to coat. Immediately pour in the potato mixture and press it down evenly.
5. Bake
Return skillet to oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and golden and the center is cooked through.
6. Rest and Slice
Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into wedges or squares.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 170
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 2g
Tips for Best Results
- Use a Hot Skillet – Preheating ensures that first crisp when the batter hits the pan.
- Grate Finely – Finer potato and onion shreds help everything bind together and cook evenly.
- Add Herbs – Mix in chopped parsley or thyme for a flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
This potato kugel pairs beautifully with roasted meats, sautéed greens, or a simple side salad. Serve it warm for the ultimate crisp-tender experience.
Cast Iron Potato Kugel brings traditional comfort with a crispy, modern edge. It’s easy to make, richly satisfying, and sure to become a favorite dish for gatherings or family dinners.
Cast Iron Potato Kugel – Crispy Edges, Soft Center, Pure Comfort
6
servings15
minutes45
minutes170
kcalA crispy-edged, tender-centered potato kugel baked in a hot cast iron skillet. Simple, comforting, and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and grated
1 medium onion, grated
2 large eggs
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
Optional: ½ tsp baking powder for fluffier texture
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep the Skillet
Place your cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C). Let it get hot while you prep the kugel. - Grate and Drain
Grate potatoes and onion, then place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. - Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine drained potato-onion mixture with eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Mix until well combined. - Add Oil to Hot Skillet
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the oil, swirling to coat. Immediately pour in the potato mixture and press it down evenly. - Bake
Return skillet to oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and golden and the center is cooked through. - Rest and Slice
Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into wedges or squares.
Notes
- Use a Hot Skillet – Preheating ensures that first crisp when the batter hits the pan.
Grate Finely – Finer potato and onion shreds help everything bind together and cook evenly.
Add Herbs – Mix in chopped parsley or thyme for a flavor boost.