Potatoes Anna
Potatoes Anna is a classic French dish featuring thinly sliced, layered potatoes crisped to perfection with butter. Its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture make it a perfect side for elegant dinners or family meals. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, it offers a delightful taste of French comfort cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Using 3 tablespoons of butter or margarine, grease a heavy 8-inch skillet.
- Peel the potatoes.
- Cut potatoes crosswise into thin slices.
- Put potatoes in a large bowl and toss gently with salt and pepper.
- Arrange potato slices in layers in the skillet, covering each layer with butter.
- Place skillet over medium-high heat and cook for 3 minutes to brown the bottom of the potatoes.
- Remove from heat and cover with foil.
- Press down firmly with a 9-inch Pyrex dish to compact the potatoes.
- Place the skillet and dish in the center of the oven rack.
- Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the Pyrex dish and foil, then bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use Yukon Gold or Idaho potatoes for their creamy texture. If you want to cut down on butter, consider using olive oil or a mix of both. To enhance flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs between the layers. Ensure your potato slices are evenly cut for consistent cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Potatoes Anna alongside roasted meats or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with French Mashed Potatoes or a rich gravy. For a lighter option, serve with steamed vegetables or a Quick Cottage Cheese Salad for contrast. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Potatoes Anna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring they remain crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potatoes Anna contains roughly 2188 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 233g fat. It is a good source of potassium (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Potatoes Anna ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover tightly with foil. When ready to serve, bake directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What type of skillet is best for this recipe?
A heavy, oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, works best for even cooking and browning. Avoid non-stick pans, as they may not provide the desired crispiness on the bottom.
Can I add other ingredients to Potatoes Anna?
Absolutely! Feel free to layer in other ingredients like cheese, sautéed onions, or even cooked bacon for added flavor. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly to maintain balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).