Abstract: A solid-state battery cell is provided, which contains a sintered metal oxide cathode, in which a surface of the cathode has an array of cavities extending about 60-90% into a depth of the cathode; a glass or glass ceramic electrolyte separator forming a smooth layer on the cathode surface and extending into the depths of the cavities of the cathode; and a lithium-based anode in contact with the electrolyte on a side opposite the cathode. A method of making the solid-state battery cell is also described.