Oven-baked potatoes stuffed with cheese

Baked potatoes stuffed with cheese: a recipe for comfort and good taste

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Welcome to the savory world of baked dishes! Today, we will prepare a simple yet delicious recipe for baked potatoes stuffed with cheese, a dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. These stuffed potatoes are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course, ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

A short story

Stuffed potatoes have been an essential part of traditional cuisine in many cultures, adapted according to the locally available ingredients. This simple recipe for baked potatoes stuffed with cheese is based on the classic combination of telemea cheese and aromatic herbs, which add an extra flavor to any dish. Potatoes are versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, and cheese provides a creamy texture that perfectly complements the hearty taste of the potato.

Necessary ingredients

- 6 medium potatoes (choose pink or yellow potatoes for better texture)
- 200 g telemea cheese (or feta, according to preference)
- 1 egg (to bind the ingredients well)
- A little fresh dill (for a vibrant taste)
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (creamy, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (a healthy choice to drizzle over the potatoes)

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then place them in a pot of water and let them boil with their skins on. Make sure to boil them just until they become slightly soft but still firm (about 15-20 minutes). The goal is not to break them when you scoop them out.

2. Cooling and peeling: Once the potatoes are boiled, drain the water and let them cool slightly. Then, carefully peel them, making sure not to damage them. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin without harming the flesh.

3. Scooping the potatoes: Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh of the potatoes, leaving about a 1 cm edge to create a sort of "boat". Place the scooped-out flesh in a bowl.

4. Preparing the filling: In the bowl with the scooped-out flesh, add the crumbled telemea cheese, beaten egg, finely chopped dill, and one tablespoon of sour cream. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If desired, you can also add a little pepper or other preferred spices, such as paprika or garlic powder, for a more intense flavor.

5. Filling the potatoes: Using a spoon, fill each potato with the cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill them. Arrange them in a baking dish.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Drizzle the stuffed potatoes with a little olive oil to achieve a golden and crispy crust. Place the dish in the oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are browned and appetizing.

7. Serving: Remove the potatoes from the oven and serve them warm, alongside sour cream. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh dill for a more appealing look.

Practical tips

- Choosing the cheese: If you prefer a less salty cheese, you can use cottage cheese or mozzarella. Each variant will provide a different taste and unique texture.
- Variations: You can add sautéed vegetables, crispy bacon, or even mushrooms to the filling to diversify the dish. A delicious option is to add slices of red pepper or black olives.
- Side dishes: Stuffed potatoes can be served alongside a fresh green salad or a marinated vegetable salad, which will add a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional benefits

Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Telemea cheese brings protein and calcium, essential for bone health. Dill not only enhances the flavor but is also rich in antioxidants, having beneficial effects on digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes are a wonderful alternative and add a sweet flavor to the dish.
2. How can I store leftovers? Stuffed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
3. What drinks pair well? A dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

A personal note

This recipe for baked potatoes stuffed with cheese reminds me of the evenings spent with family, when we all gathered around the table to enjoy delicious dishes. I encourage you to try it and bring that warm and welcoming atmosphere into your home. Take the opportunity to invite your friends or family and share this delicious recipe!

Now that you have all the necessary details, it’s time to put on your apron and start cooking. Enjoy your meal!