Baked potatoes with cheese

Delicious baked cheese potato side dish

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will indulge in a side dish recipe that combines simplicity with flavor: baked cheese potatoes. This dish is perfect not only to accompany a roast but also as a vegetarian main course, full of aromas and textures. It’s a recipe that will remind you of home-cooked meals, where every ingredient is cared for with love.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes (about 800 g)
- 300 g cottage cheese (preferably fresh)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (use full-fat sour cream for a richer taste)
- 100 g cheese (for a delicious topping)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (to grease the dish and add flavor)
- Salt to taste

A bit of history:
Cheese potatoes are a traditional recipe found in many cultures, appreciated for its simplicity and the fact that it brings together accessible ingredients. This side dish has gained popularity due to its versatility, easily adaptable to personal preferences. Moreover, it’s a great way to use leftover cheese from other dishes.

Step by step to a perfect result:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the 6 potatoes. Make sure to wash them well to remove any impurities. Once peeled, slice them into rounds about 0.5 cm thick. This will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

2. Boiling the potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a pot with cold water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil for 10 minutes, just until they start to soften. This step will reduce baking time and help achieve a creamy side dish.

3. Preparing the egg and sour cream mixture: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a fork. Add the 2 tablespoons of sour cream and mix well. This mixture will add creaminess to your dish.

4. Grating the cheese: Use a grater to shred the cottage cheese. If you prefer a stronger taste, you can combine cottage cheese with feta cheese for added flavor.

5. Preparing the dish: Take a baking dish or oven-safe pan and grease it with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. This step will not only prevent sticking but will also add a pleasant aroma to the dish.

6. Assembling the dish: Start by placing a layer of potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Follow with a layer of grated cheese, then another layer of potatoes. Continue the process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese.

7. Adding the egg and sour cream: Pour the egg and sour cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, ensuring it is well distributed. Finally, grate cheese on top to create a golden and crispy crust.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. It’s the perfect moment to enjoy the delicious aroma filling the kitchen!

9. Serving: Once the dish is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. You can serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meat or as a main course with a fresh salad.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add herbs to the egg mixture, such as dill or oregano.
- For a healthier version, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, which will add creamy flavor without too many calories.
- If you prefer a richer dish, add some crispy bacon bits between the layers of potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor.

2. What are the nutritional values of this recipe?
A serving of baked cheese potatoes contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and sour cream used. They are rich in carbohydrates, protein, and calcium, making them a satisfying and nourishing option.

3. What can I serve alongside this dish?
A green salad with lemon and olive oil dressing will perfectly complement this dish. Also, a cold drink, such as fruit tea or lemonade, will add a pleasant contrast.

4. How can I store leftovers?
You can store the cheese potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

This baked cheese potato recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family meals or a quick dinner. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends, as goodness deserves to be savored together!