Savory Potato Pancake with Creamy Yogurt Sauce – A Comforting Oven-Baked Classic
There is something universally comforting about potatoes. They are humble, affordable, and endlessly versatile, making them a favorite in kitchens around the world.
This Savory Potato Pancake with Creamy Yogurt Sauce takes simple, everyday ingredients and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying dish that works beautifully for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Unlike traditional fried potato pancakes, this version is oven-baked, which makes it lighter, less messy, and perfect for feeding a family or serving guests without standing over a pan of hot oil.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its balance of textures and flavors. The grated potatoes bake into a tender yet structured pancake, while the vegetables add color, freshness, and subtle sweetness.
The optional cheese melts into the top, creating a golden, savory crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. And then there’s the yogurt sauce—cool, creamy, and lightly tangy—which brings everything together and makes each bite feel complete.
This recipe is also incredibly forgiving and adaptable. You can change the vegetables based on what you have on hand, adjust the seasoning to your taste, or serve it in different ways depending on the occasion.
Whether you are cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual gathering, this potato pancake delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one baking dish.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works so well because it is built on simple techniques and smart ingredient combinations that naturally complement each other. First, grating the potatoes allows them to cook evenly and quickly in the oven.
Instead of dense chunks, the thin shreds soften and bind together with the eggs, milk, and flour, creating a cohesive pancake that slices cleanly without falling apart.
The addition of baking powder is another small but important detail. It helps lighten the batter slightly, preventing the pancake from becoming heavy or dense. Combined with the eggs, it gives the finished dish just enough lift to feel tender rather than compact.
Vegetables like spring onions, bell pepper, and carrot don’t just add nutrition—they bring layers of flavor. The onions add a mild sharpness, the bell pepper contributes sweetness and color, and the carrot enhances both moisture and subtle earthiness. Cheese, while optional, adds richness and a savory depth that makes the pancake feel indulgent without overpowering the vegetables.
Finally, baking instead of frying ensures even cooking and a consistent golden surface. The yogurt sauce completes the dish by adding contrast: cool against warm, creamy against crisp, and tangy against savory. Every element has a purpose, which is exactly why this recipe consistently turns out well.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
One of the strengths of this recipe is that it relies on basic, accessible ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly. Most of them may already be in your kitchen.
For the potato pancake, large potatoes are the foundation. They provide structure, bulk, and that classic comforting flavor. Grating them helps them blend seamlessly with the batter.
Spring onions bring a fresh, mild onion flavor that is softer than regular onions, making them ideal for baking. Bell peppers add brightness and a gentle sweetness, while grated carrot enhances moisture and color.
Eggs act as a binder, holding everything together, while milk helps create a smooth, pourable batter. All-purpose flour gives the pancake structure, and baking powder ensures it doesn’t bake up too heavy. Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Cheese is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a richer result. Mozzarella melts smoothly, cheddar adds sharpness, and a blend offers the best of both worlds. Olive oil is used to grease the baking dish, preventing sticking and helping the edges brown nicely.
For the yogurt sauce, plain yogurt forms the creamy base. Mayonnaise adds richness and smoothness, while fresh parsley brings freshness and color. Simple seasoning with salt and pepper keeps the sauce balanced and versatile.
How To Make This Recipe
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures the oven is fully hot by the time the pancake goes in, which helps it cook evenly and develop a golden top.
Next, prepare the vegetables. Grate the potatoes using the large holes of a box grater or pulse them briefly in a food processor.
Chop the spring onions and bell pepper into small pieces, and grate the carrot. Keeping the vegetables fairly uniform in size helps them cook evenly throughout the pancake.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, flour, and baking powder until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper, as potatoes require enough seasoning to avoid tasting bland.
Add the grated potatoes, spring onions, bell pepper, and carrot to the batter. Fold everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure the vegetables are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.
Grease a baking dish with olive oil, then pour in the potato mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly across the dish. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set. While it bakes, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
Once baked, let the pancake rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with the yogurt sauce on the side.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
To get the best results, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind. First, if your potatoes seem very watery after grating, you can lightly squeeze them in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a soggy texture.
Seasoning is key. Potatoes absorb salt, so don’t be afraid to season the batter well. Taste the yogurt sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Use a shallow baking dish if possible. This allows more surface area to brown and gives you a better texture throughout. If you prefer a thicker pancake, simply use a smaller dish and extend the baking time slightly.
You can also customize this recipe easily. Add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs to the batter for extra flavor. Swap in zucchini, corn, or spinach depending on the season.
Letting the pancake rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set fully, making it easier to slice and serve cleanly.
How to Serve This Dish
This savory potato pancake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed hot, warm, or even at room temperature, which makes it great for flexible meal planning.
Serve it straight from the oven for a cozy family meal, or slice it into smaller portions for sharing.
The creamy yogurt sauce should be served on the side or drizzled lightly over each slice. Its cool, tangy flavor balances the warmth and richness of the pancake beautifully.
Because the pancake holds its shape well, it can be plated neatly, making it suitable for casual entertaining or simple weeknight dinners alike.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, pair this dish with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The freshness cuts through the richness and keeps the meal balanced. It also works well alongside roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad.
If serving for breakfast or brunch, consider adding a fried or poached egg on top for extra protein. For lunch, it pairs nicely with soup, especially light vegetable or lentil soups.
You can also cut the pancake into small squares and serve it as an appetizer with the yogurt sauce as a dip, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks.
Time & Make-Ahead Information
This recipe is ideal for busy days because it doesn’t require complicated steps or constant attention. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, baking time is 25–30 minutes, and the total time comes in at around 45 minutes.
The pancake can be made ahead and reheated gently in the oven. It also keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.
A Versatile Recipe for Every Kitchen
One of the best things about this savory potato pancake is how adaptable it is. It welcomes substitutions, forgives small measurement changes, and still turns out delicious. That makes it perfect for cooks of all experience levels.
A Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser
With its mild flavors and familiar ingredients, this dish appeals to both adults and kids. The soft texture, cheesy top, and creamy sauce make it especially approachable for picky eaters.
A Healthier Take on Potato Pancakes
By baking instead of frying, this recipe reduces oil while still delivering flavor and satisfaction. The vegetables and yogurt sauce add nutritional balance without sacrificing comfort.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you need a quick dinner, a brunch centerpiece, or a shareable side dish, this recipe fits the moment. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking yet special enough to serve to guests.