Crispy 2-Ingredient Potato and Onion Cake

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Looking for a simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly recipe you can whip up with pantry staples? This crispy 2-ingredient potato and onion cake is the answer! With just two basic ingredients—grated potatoes and onion—plus salt and pepper, you can create a golden, savory skillet cake that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

This is the kind of no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for busy days, lazy weekends, or when your fridge is nearly empty. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly versatile—plus, who can resist those crispy edges?

Why You Will Love This Crispy 2-Ingredient Potato and Onion Cake Recipe

• Just 2 Main Ingredients – No flour, no egg, no fancy gadgets! Just potatoes and onion—two humble ingredients that create something magical together.
• Crispy Outside, Tender Inside – Thanks to the moisture-removing trick, this potato-onion cake cooks up perfectly golden and crispy.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free – A naturally plant-based recipe that’s free from gluten and allergens.
• Perfect Anytime Meal – Great on its own, or as a side with soup, salad, or a vegan protein.
• Budget-Friendly – Makes a filling meal from ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Customizable – Add herbs, garlic, or spices if you’re feeling fancy, but it’s flavorful even in its most basic form.

Ingredient Notes

Here’s all you need for this easy vegan potato skillet cake:

Potatoes

• Choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds—they crisp up beautifully and bind the cake naturally.
• If using waxy potatoes (like red potatoes), the texture will be softer, but it still works.

Onion

• Use yellow or white onions for the most flavor.
• Grate the onion just like the potatoes to help everything bind and cook evenly.

Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper are the basics. You can add optional extras like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Oil for Frying (Optional)

• You can fry this without oil in a non-stick pan, but a little oil helps enhance the crispiness and golden color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grate the Potatoes and Onion

Using a box grater or food processor, grate 2 large peeled potatoes and 1 medium onion into a bowl.

2. Squeeze Out the Liquid

Transfer the grated mixture to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is essential—the drier the mix, the crispier the result.

3. Season

Place the mixture back into the bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste (start with about ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper). Mix well.

4. Heat the Pan

Heat a non-stick skillet (or cast-iron pan) over medium heat. Add 1–2 tablespoons of oil if using.

5. Add the Mixture to the Pan

Add the entire mixture into the hot pan and spread it out evenly. Press it down gently with a spatula to form a flat, round cake.

6. Cook Until Golden and Crispy

Let it cook for 6–8 minutes without disturbing it. Once the bottom is golden brown and crisp, use a large spatula or flip it carefully with the help of a plate.

7. Cook the Other Side

Cook for another 6–8 minutes until the other side is crispy and golden.

8. Serve

Slide onto a plate, cut into wedges, and serve hot!

Crispy 2-Ingredient Potato and Onion Cake Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze! Removing the water from the grated mix is crucial. Otherwise, the cake will steam instead of crisping.
• Don’t skip the flip trick – Use a plate to flip the cake safely if it’s too big for a spatula.
• Low and slow – Medium heat gives the best results. Too hot, and it’ll burn before the inside cooks.
• Preheat your pan – This helps get the initial crisp on the bottom side.
• Use a non-stick or cast iron pan – This helps with easy flipping and ensures the cake doesn’t stick.

Vegan Serving Suggestions

This crispy potato-onion cake is versatile and pairs well with both cozy and fresh sides:

Breakfast:

• Top with avocado slices, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Serve with vegan tofu scramble or sautéed mushrooms.

Lunch or Dinner:

• Pair with a simple kale salad or roasted veggies.
• Serve as a side with vegan lentil soup or spicy black bean stew.

Sauces:

• Vegan sour cream or plain dairy-free yogurt.
• Ketchup, hot sauce, or tahini-lemon dressing.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to revive the crispiness, or use an air fryer or oven.
• Freezer: You can freeze it, though the texture may soften slightly upon thawing. Wrap slices individually and reheat in a pan until hot and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Crispy 2-Ingredient Potato and Onion Cake

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes! Just use a good-quality non-stick pan and cook slowly to avoid burning.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try adding grated zucchini (squeezed dry), carrot, or even garlic for extra flavor.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes. Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten it, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

What if my potato cake falls apart?

Make sure you’ve squeezed out enough moisture. Also, pressing it down firmly in the pan and cooking long enough before flipping helps it stay intact.

Essential Equipment

• Box grater or food processor – For grating potatoes and onion.
• Cheesecloth or clean towel – To squeeze out moisture.
• Non-stick or cast iron skillet – For frying to crispy perfection.
• Large spatula or plate – For flipping the entire cake easily.

This crispy 2-ingredient potato and onion cake is a classic example of how simple, whole foods can be transformed into something incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking on a budget, short on time, or just craving some crispy comfort food, this recipe delivers every time.

It’s a beautiful reminder that vegan food doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious. With just two ingredients, you can enjoy something that feels gourmet, cozy, and crowd-pleasing.

Have you tried this 2-ingredient potato and onion cake?
Did you add any fun twists like garlic, chili flakes, or herbs?

👇 Let me know in the comments below! I love seeing your creations and variations. And if you snap a pic, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram so I can share it!

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