There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sound of sizzling potatoes in a hot skillet. When I first tried my hand at making Potato Rosti, I was completely taken aback by how simple yet deliciously comforting it was. This Swiss classic has transformed my breakfast routine and has earned its place as a versatile side at dinner. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden-brown exterior that gives way to a fluffy, tender inside—perfectly seasoned and oh-so-crispy!
Whether you’re seeking a hearty breakfast option, a delectable side dish, or a delightful snack, this Potato Rosti delivers all that and more. Plus, it’s a breeze to make! With a few simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, you can whip up this culinary gem in no time. Let’s get started on creating a dish that’s bound to impress family and friends, while also being vegan-friendly and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets. Your kitchen will thank you!
Why is Potato Rosti a Must-Try?
Crispy, golden perfection: Each bite of this Potato Rosti offers a delightful crunch that will have you craving more.
Easy to prepare: With just a few common ingredients and simple steps, you’ll impress yourself and your loved ones in no time!
Versatile as can be: Enjoy it for breakfast alongside eggs, or pair it with your favorite meats for a delicious dinner side.
Vegan-friendly options: Easily adapt this recipe for all dietary needs, ensuring everyone can savor its scrumptious taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Potato Rosti is a dish that will have friends and family coming back for seconds!
Potato Rosti Ingredients
For the Rosti
• Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet are great choices for an ideal texture.
• Salt – Use kosher for even distribution and flavor enhancement.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds a nice depth of flavor.
For Frying
• Clarified Butter or Ghee – This will help achieve that irresistibly crispy exterior without burning. You can substitute with avocado oil for a vegan twist.
For Binding
• Clarified Butter or Ghee (melted) – This ingredient aids in blending the flavors of the potato mixture seamlessly. Alternative: use regular melted plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly option.
How to Make Potato Rosti
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Grate & Prepare Potatoes: Start by peeling and grating the potatoes into a bowl. Squeeze out the excess liquid gently, leaving a little moisture to keep the insides fluffy while they cook.
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes with melted clarified butter or ghee, along with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated—this will enhance the flavor of your Potato Rosti.
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Cook the First Side: Heat half of the clarified butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the potato mixture, spreading it evenly. Cook for about 12 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crispy.
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Flip: Using a wooden board or a large spatula, confidently flip the Rosti over. Melt the remaining clarified butter in the pan to help achieve that delicious crispiness.
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Cook the Second Side: Carefully slide the Rosti back into the skillet and cook for another 12 minutes until the other side is golden and tender, creating that tantalizing crust.
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Serve: Once perfectly cooked, slide the Potato Rosti onto a cutting board, slice into wedges, and serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Swiss-Style Potato Rosti?
Transform your meal with delightful side dishes and treats that elevate the flavors of this crispy classic.
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Scrambled Eggs: Pair with soft, fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast that complements the Rosti’s crispiness. Together, they create a comforting morning feast.
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Grilled Vegetables: Their smoky flavors and tender texture balance the Rosti’s crunch, providing a colorful, healthy addition to your plate. Roasted bell peppers and zucchini are particularly delightful!
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Applesauce: The sweet and tangy notes of applesauce contrast beautifully with the savory potato, adding a lovely sweetness. It’s a classic Swiss touch that enhances every bite.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the Rosti, offering a refreshing crunch. Include greens like arugula and add some cherry tomatoes for color.
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Sour Cream or Vegan Yogurt: A dollop of creamy sour cream adds richness and tangy freshness, enhancing the textures beautifully. Opt for a dairy-free variant for a vegan-friendly option.
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Crispy Bacon or Sausages: For those meat lovers, the crispy, salty flavors of bacon or savory sausages make an indulgent pairing that elevates breakfast or brunch time to the next level.
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Sparkling Water or Cider: A glass of carbonated beverage or a crisp apple cider adds a refreshing touch to the meal, balancing out the hearty Rosti with a light fizz.
Each of these options complements the delightful texture and flavor of the Potato Rosti, making your meal a satisfying experience!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Potato Rosti in advance is a fantastic way to save time for those busy mornings or weeknight dinners! You can grate the potatoes and mix them with the melted clarified butter, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours ahead—just store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. For the best results, ensure you squeeze out excess moisture to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat half of the remaining clarified butter in a skillet, add the potato mixture, and follow the standard cooking instructions. Your Potato Rosti will turn out just as crispy and delicious, making meal prep a breeze!
Potato Rosti Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Potato Rosti experience with these delightful twists!
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Vegan-Friendly: Substitute clarified butter with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a plant-based version without sacrificing flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to help bind your mixture. This will ensure that everyone at the table can indulge safely.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese, such as Gruyère or vegan cheese, into the potato mixture for a creamy, melty surprise in every bite.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the grated potatoes for a fragrant and earthy flavor that elevates your dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to bring some heat to your Rosti, pleasing spice lovers.
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Onion Variation: Grate a small onion and mix it with the potatoes for a subtly sweet and savory depth that complements the crispy exterior.
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Sweet Potato Rosti: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and vibrant variation that pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream.
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Mini Rosti Bites: Form smaller, bite-sized rostis for delightful appetizers. Cook until golden brown and crisp, perfect for serving at parties!
Expert Tips for Perfect Potato Rosti
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for a fluffy inside and crispy exterior. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the desired texture.
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Moisture Matters: When squeezing the grated potatoes, retain some moisture. This helps steam the insides, ensuring they are tender while still achieving a crispy crust.
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Don’t Overpack the Pan: For maximum crispiness, avoid compressing the potato mixture in the skillet; allow space to create a nice golden-brown surface and even cooking.
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Use a Non-Stick Skillet: This prevents sticking and makes flipping easier. If you don’t have one, carefully loosen the edges with a spatula before flipping the Potato Rosti.
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Flip with Confidence: Use a sturdy board or a large spatula when flipping to maintain the shape and achieve that perfect golden brown on both sides.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Rosti
Fridge: Store leftover Potato Rosti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Potato Rosti in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Enjoy within 1–2 months for best flavor.
Reheating: To regain crispiness, reheat the Potato Rosti in the oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it can make it soggy.
Making Ahead: You can prepare the Potato Rosti mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge, ready to cook when you need a quick meal!
Potato Rosti Recipe FAQs
What potatoes are best for Potato Rosti?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are the ideal choices due to their starchy nature, which yields a fluffy inside and crispy exterior. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes, as they don’t provide the desired texture for a perfect Potato Rosti.
How should I store leftover Potato Rosti?
To keep your delicious Rosti fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend layering parchment paper between each Rosti to prevent them from sticking together. This way, you can enjoy the leftovers without losing that lovely texture!
Can I freeze Potato Rosti?
Yes, you can! For optimal freshness, freeze cooked Potato Rosti by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 1–2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven to regain that delightful crispiness!
What’s the best way to reheat Potato Rosti?
To reheat and keep that fabulous crunch, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and place the Rosti on a rack or baking sheet. Heat for about 10–15 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy.
Can I make Potato Rosti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re set to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions. This makes it super convenient for quick meals on busy days.
Are there any dietary considerations for Potato Rosti?
Yes, it’s quite versatile! To make it vegan, simply substitute clarified butter with avocado oil or plant-based butter in the frying process. For gluten-free options, rest assured that this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs. Just be mindful of any additional ingredients you may add!

Crispy Potato Rosti: A Swiss Delight Your Taste Buds Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and grating the potatoes into a bowl. Squeeze out the excess liquid gently, leaving a little moisture to keep the insides fluffy while they cook.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes with melted clarified butter or ghee, along with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Heat half of the clarified butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the potato mixture, spreading it evenly. Cook for about 12 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crispy.
- Using a wooden board or a large spatula, confidently flip the Rosti over. Melt the remaining clarified butter in the pan.
- Carefully slide the Rosti back into the skillet and cook for another 12 minutes until the other side is golden and tender.
- Once cooked, slide the Potato Rosti onto a cutting board, slice into wedges, and serve immediately while it's hot and crispy!







