Potatoes Anna is a French classic that proves simple ingredients can create something truly elegant. Thin slices of potato are layered with butter, seasoned just right, and baked until golden with crisp edges and a tender center. It’s the kind of side dish that feels fancy without being complicated.

All you need are potatoes, butter, salt, and pepper. Arrange the slices in a cast-iron skillet, layering each with a little butter and seasoning. Bake covered at high heat to steam, then finish uncovered at a lower temperature until the edges turn golden brown. The result is a dish that’s both crispy and melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Potatoes Anna pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled meats, but it also holds its own as a star on the table. We served it alongside baked trout with apricot glaze and garlicky sautéed vegetables, and it turned an ordinary dinner into something memorable.