Potato Pavé Recipe: A Crispy, Elegant Side Dish

Golden, buttery, and impossibly crisp, the potato pavé recipe is the kind of dish that turns a simple side into the star of the table. Layers of tender potatoes, infused with cream and butter, are baked into a luxurious block, chilled, and then seared to a shattering crispness that gives way to soft, pillowy interiors. Whether you’re planning an elegant holiday feast or simply elevating a Sunday dinner, this potato pavé recipe delivers sophistication with every slice.

What is Potato Pavé?

The potato pavé recipe finds its roots deep within French culinary traditions, where “pavé” refers to a “paving stone”—a fitting description for the compact, neatly stacked appearance of this dish. Thin slices of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are gently layered with butter and cream, baked slowly to create tender cohesion, and then pressed under a weight to set the shape. After chilling, each block is seared to achieve an irresistible golden crust, offering a textural contrast that’s simply unforgettable.

What makes this potato pavé recipe so special isn’t just its texture, though that crispy exterior and creamy center are certainly showstoppers. It’s the artistry: the careful layering, the precise baking, the golden sear that requires both patience and a little culinary passion. It’s a dish that speaks of craftsmanship and love for detail, transforming humble potatoes into a fine dining experience at home.

The aroma is buttery and deeply savory, a rich scent that fills your kitchen as the pavé bakes slowly. Texturally, expect a harmonious play between crisp and tender. Visually, the stacked layers create a stunning striped effect that turns even the simplest plate into something unforgettable.

Whether served with roast beef, seared scallops, or a festive holiday ham, this potato pavé recipe offers both beauty and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients List

For the ultimate potato pavé recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold, peeled)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional flavorings:
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • A drizzle of truffle oil (for extra luxury)
• Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper (for lining the pan)

Notes:

• Russet potatoes are ideal for the highest starch content, ensuring the layers bond tightly.
• Heavy cream enriches every bite without making the dish soggy.

Tools You’ll Need

To craft the perfect potato pavé recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference:

• Mandoline slicer: Essential for cutting potatoes into even, paper-thin slices. (Uniform slices are critical for even baking and texture.)
• Loaf pan: Traditional shape that gives the pavé its signature block form.
• Parchment paper: For easy removal and a tidy finish.
• Heavy weights (like canned goods or a second loaf pan filled with weights): These help compress the pavé after baking for the perfect firm texture.
• Sharp chef’s knife: To slice cleanly through the chilled pavé.
• Cast-iron skillet or heavy nonstick skillet: For achieving that golden, crispy sear right before serving.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

While the classic potato pavé recipe is pure and elegant, there’s plenty of room for creativity depending on your pantry and guests’ dietary needs.

Alternative Potatoes

• Yukon Gold potatoes: Their buttery flavor and slightly waxy texture create a creamier pavé compared to russets.
• Sweet potatoes: For a sweeter, autumn-inspired version of the potato pavé recipe, substitute half or all of the russets.

Dairy Alternatives

• Coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. It delivers richness without overpowering the dish.
• Plant-based butter: Use vegan butter to maintain the luxurious texture while keeping it vegan-friendly.

Flavor Enhancements

• Cheese: Sprinkle layers with grated Gruyère or Parmesan for a savory kick.
• Fresh herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or sage between layers for aromatic depth.
• Truffle oil: Drizzle a small amount between the layers or on top before searing for an elevated, restaurant-style experience.

With just a few thoughtful swaps, this potato pavé recipe can morph into something truly unique — and just as delicious.

How to Make the Best Potato Pavé Recipe

Making a stunning potato pavé recipe at home is simpler than it looks — it’s all about slow, loving preparation and attention to detail.

Let’s walk through it step-by-step:

❶ Prepare Your Pan

• Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides.
• Lightly spray the paper with nonstick cooking spray.

❷ Slice the Potatoes

• Using a mandoline slicer, cut the peeled potatoes into paper-thin slices, about 1/16-inch thick.
• Keep the slices stacked neatly to maintain their shape and structure.

❸ Layer and Season

• In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and heavy cream together.
• Begin layering the potato slices into the loaf pan, slightly overlapping each piece.
• Every 2–3 layers, brush generously with the butter-cream mixture and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper (plus optional herbs or cheese if using).

Tip: Press down gently on the potatoes as you layer to eliminate air pockets.

❹ Bake Slowly

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Cover the loaf pan tightly with foil.
• Bake for 90 minutes to 2 hours, until a knife inserts easily with no resistance.

During this slow baking, the magic happens: the potatoes tenderize, absorb the butter and cream, and begin to bind together into a cohesive block.

❺ Weight and Chill

• Remove from the oven and cool slightly.
• Place a second loaf pan on top of the potatoes, then weigh it down with heavy cans or a large bag of sugar.
• Refrigerate overnight, or at least 8 hours.

This critical chilling step firms the layers, making the potato pavé recipe sliceable into perfect portions.

❻ Slice and Sear

• Lift the pavé out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
• Cut into neat squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
• Heat a bit of butter or oil in a cast-iron or heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the pavé squares until each side is golden brown and irresistibly crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side.

The transformation during searing is almost magical: the outside becomes crackling and golden, while the inside stays rich and creamy.

Serving Suggestions for the Best Potato Pavé Recipe

The beauty of this potato pavé recipe lies not just in its stunning appearance, but in how versatile it can be on the plate. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from hearty meats to delicate seafood.

Classic Pairings

• Steak au Poivre: A juicy peppercorn-crusted steak is the perfect partner for the rich, buttery layers of the potato pavé recipe.
• Herb-Roasted Chicken: Let the crispiness of the pavé complement the juicy, herbaceous flavors of a simple roast.
• Holiday Ham: Serve squares of the potato pavé recipe alongside a glazed ham for Christmas or Easter dinner.

Lighter Options

• Seared Scallops: For a lighter twist, serve this potato pavé recipe with seafood. The buttery richness pairs beautifully with the sweet, delicate scallops.
• Grilled Vegetables: Layer a plate with grilled asparagus, roasted carrots, and a golden slice of potato pavé recipe for a colorful vegetarian meal.

Whether it’s an elegant holiday spread or an elevated weeknight dinner, this potato pavé recipe always feels special.

Tips for the Best Potato Pavé Recipe

Crafting the perfect potato pavé recipe requires a few smart techniques. These tips will guarantee you serve crisp, golden squares every time.

Choose the Right Potato

• Use russet potatoes for the most classic, fluffy interior.
• Yukon Golds can be used for a creamier, more tender bite.

Slice Thinly and Evenly

• Invest in a mandoline slicer. The uniform thinness is critical for even baking and the signature striped look of the potato pavé recipe.

Dry the Potatoes Well

• After slicing, pat the potatoes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Wet slices can cause sogginess in your potato pavé recipe.

Layer with Care

• Take your time. Carefully overlap each slice to create tight, uniform layers.
• Brush every couple of layers with butter and cream for consistent flavor throughout the potato pavé recipe.

Press and Chill

• Don’t skip the overnight pressing step. Weighting and chilling the pavé is what sets its structure, making it slice cleanly into beautiful, professional-looking squares.

Crisp Just Before Serving

• Sear each square of the potato pavé recipe in a hot skillet right before serving. This keeps the crust shatteringly crisp.

Follow these steps, and your potato pavé recipe will rival even fine dining presentations.

Storage Instructions for Potato Pavé Recipe

One of the biggest perks of making a potato pavé recipe is how beautifully it stores and reheats. It’s make-ahead friendly — perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Refrigerating

• Store the chilled and pressed pavé (before slicing and searing) tightly wrapped in the loaf pan for up to 3 days.
• After slicing, you can refrigerate seared squares in an airtight container for up to 2 more days.
• To re-crisp, simply sear again briefly in a hot skillet.

Freezing

• After chilling and weighting, slice the potato pavé recipe into portions.
• Freeze slices individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Frozen pavé squares will keep for up to 2 months.

To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and sear until hot and crispy.

Reheating

• Always reheat the potato pavé recipe in a skillet or a hot oven (400°F) to restore its signature crispy crust.
• Microwaving is not recommended, as it makes the pavé soggy.

With proper storage, you can enjoy the crisp, luxurious experience of the potato pavé recipe any time you please.

Frequently Asked Questions About Potato Pavé Recipe

Can I make the potato pavé recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making the potato pavé recipe ahead is essential. After baking and weighting overnight, you can slice and store the pavé for up to three days. Simply sear the slices just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I freeze potato pavé?

Yes, the potato pavé recipe freezes beautifully. After chilling and cutting into portions, freeze the squares individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and re-sear to re-crisp.

Why is my potato pavé falling apart?

If your potato pavé recipe crumbles when slicing, it’s usually because the pressing or chilling time was too short. Make sure to cool it completely under weight for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.

What’s the best potato for potato pavé?

Russet potatoes are ideal for the most structured, fluffy interior. Yukon Gold is a good alternative if you prefer a creamier, richer texture for your potato pavé recipe.

How do I get the crispiest crust?

Use a hot, heavy pan (like cast iron) and a little butter or oil. Let the slices sear undisturbed for a few minutes per side. That will develop the signature crispy, golden crust that defines the perfect potato pavé recipe.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the transformation of simple potatoes into something as elegant as this potato pavé recipe. It’s a dish that speaks of patience, attention to detail, and the beauty of simple ingredients elevated through classic technique.

From the whisper-thin slices to the decadent layering of cream and butter, every step builds a sensory experience: golden crackling crust, tender luscious interiors, and a rich aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday meal or simply treating yourself to a touch of culinary luxury, the potato pavé recipe will never disappoint.

So gather your potatoes, your cream, and your favorite pan — and get ready to serve a dish that feels like a five-star experience made right in your own home. Once you master this potato pavé recipe, it might just become your signature side dish for every special occasion.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you fell in love with the elegant simplicity of this potato pavé recipe, here are a few more dishes to inspire your next culinary adventure:

• Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole Recipe – A creamy, slightly sweet bake that’s a Southern classic—perfect next to your potato pavé.
• 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe – Ultra-cheesy and indulgent, this baked favorite adds warmth to any dinner plate.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe from Longhorn – Crispy on the outside, tender inside—an ideal protein to complement elegant sides.
• Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe – Bold, crispy, and soulful, they bring a rustic counterpoint to the polished potato pavé.

Serve any of these alongside your pavé for a meal that balances elegance with hearty American flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Based on recipe yielding 10 servings.)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 4g

Please note: Nutritional values can vary based on exact ingredient brands and optional add-ins like cheese or truffle oil.

The potato pavé recipe is indulgent — and every bite is absolutely worth it!

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