Easy Cheesy Potato Egg Bake Squares

This recipe uses a simple combination of grated potatoes, egg, and cheese to create a hearty, crisp-edged, and tender baked square.

Quick Glance

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 30–40 minutes
• Yields: 9–12 squares

Ingredients

Category	Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Base	Potatoes	4 large	Peeled and coarsely grated (as seen in the image).
	Egg	1 large	For binding the mixture.
Flavor & Binding	Grated Cheese (Cheddar/Monterey Jack)	1 cup	Plus extra for the topping (about ½ cup).
	All-Purpose Flour or Breadcrumbs	2 tbsp	Optional, for extra binding.
	Salt	1 tsp	To taste.
	Black Pepper	½ tsp
	Garlic Powder (optional)	½ tsp	For extra flavor.
Optional Topping	Melted Butter	2 tbsp	For brushing before and after baking.

Instructions

1. Prep Potatoes (Crucial Step): Peel and coarsely grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This prevents the bake from being soggy.
2. Combine Filling: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed grated potatoes with the egg, 1 cup of grated cheese, flour/breadcrumbs (if using), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.
3. Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to $375^{\circ}\text{F}$ ($190^{\circ}\text{C}$). Line an $8 \times 8$ or $9 \times 9$ inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
4. Press and Shape: Press the potato mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Initial Bake: Bake for 20 minutes.
6. Add Topping: Remove the bake from the oven. Brush the top lightly with melted butter (if using) and sprinkle evenly with the reserved ½ cup of grated cheese.
7. Final Bake: Return to the oven and bake for another 10–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly (as shown in the second image panel), and the edges are crispy.
8. Serve: Let the potato bake cool for 5–10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out of the dish. Cut it into squares and serve warm.

Enjoy this incredibly easy and delicious family favorite!