This Potato Kugel recipe is crispy on the outside, tender in the center, and packed with simple savory flavor. Made with grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and a few basic ingredients, it makes a comforting side dish for holidays and family dinners.
Why This Potato Kugel Works
Grated potatoes and onions create a hearty, flavorful base, while eggs help hold everything together. Baking the kugel in a hot dish gives the edges a deliciously crisp texture while keeping the center soft.
Ingredients
- 2½ lbs russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 large yellow onion
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup matzo meal
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Potato Kugel
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with oil.
- Grate the potatoes and onion: Use a box grater or food processor to finely grate the potatoes and onion.
- Remove excess moisture: Transfer the mixture to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This helps the kugel become crisp.
- Make the mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, matzo meal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir in the grated potatoes and onions until evenly combined.
- Transfer to the dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and drizzle with a little additional oil if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden and crisp and the center is set.
- Rest and serve: Let the kugel rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Potato Kugel
- Russet potatoes work well because they are high in starch and crisp nicely.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible after grating.
- Make sure the baking dish and oil are hot for crispier edges.
- Don’t make the potato mixture too thick in the dish.
- Let the kugel rest briefly before cutting so the slices hold together.
Final Thoughts
Potato kugel is a simple and comforting side dish with crispy golden edges and a soft, savory center. It’s an excellent addition to holiday meals, family dinners, and special gatherings.
