Oven-baked potatoes with cheese

Oven-Baked Cheese Potatoes - A Delicious and Flavorful Side Dish

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a warm and delicious side dish that perfectly complements a juicy steak? Oven-baked cheese potatoes are not only a perfect choice for a festive meal but also a simple, quick, and comforting recipe that can transform any dinner into a memorable experience. This dish combines the creamy texture of sour cream with the intense flavor of cheese, and its aroma will surely win everyone over at the table.

A Bit of History

Potatoes have become a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their versatility. Recipes for gratin potatoes or cheesy dishes are old traditions passed down from generation to generation. Over time, each culture has added its own twist to these dishes, resulting in unique combinations of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

- 10 red potatoes (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 200 g cheese (choose a cheese with an intense flavor, such as smoked cheese or sheep cheese)
- 300 g sour cream (opt for high-fat sour cream for a richer taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Butter (for greasing the dish)

Practical Tips About Ingredients

- Potatoes: Choose medium-sized potatoes that are smooth and blemish-free. Red potatoes have a creamy texture, ideal for this recipe.
- Cheese: Use quality cheese with a strong flavor. Smoked cheese adds a unique note to this dish, but you can also opt for a classic, sweeter cheese.
- Sour Cream: Fresh sour cream will provide an exceptional taste. You can experiment with flavored sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Potatoes:
- Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities.
- Boil them in a large pot with salted water over medium heat for 20-25 minutes until soft but not completely cooked. Check with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready.
- Once done, drain and let them cool slightly before peeling.

2. Preparing the Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Take a baking dish and generously grease it with butter to prevent the potatoes from sticking.

3. Grating and Assembling:
- Grate half of the peeled potatoes on a large grater directly into the prepared dish. This will create a soft and creamy base for the dish.
- Add salt to taste, then pour in the sour cream and sprinkle some of the grated cheese.
- Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, adding salt, sour cream, and finally, the grated cheese on a small grater to create a golden crust.

4. Baking:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the surface is golden and crispy. The fabulous aroma that will fill the kitchen will make you eagerly await to enjoy this delicious dish.

5. Serving:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It’s delicious alongside a pork or chicken roast, but can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian main dish with a fresh salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheddar or mozzarella for a different texture.

- How can I make the recipe easier?
You can use frozen French fries and skip the boiling step, but the taste won't be as rich.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using sweet potatoes, plant-based sour cream, and vegan cheese.

Nutritional Benefits

This cheese potato recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy. Additionally, cheese provides protein and calcium, contributing to bone health. However, considering the fat content from sour cream and cheese, it is recommended to enjoy this dish in moderation.

Possible Variations

If you want to add a personal touch to the recipe, you can try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley between the layers of potatoes. You can also add some crispy bacon slices for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestion

This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade, perfect for warm days. A green salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing will add a pleasant contrast and balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Oven-baked cheese potatoes are more than just a simple side dish; they are a culinary experience that combines flavors and textures in a simple yet delicious way. Whether enjoyed alongside a roast or transformed into a vegetarian main dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite every time. Give it a try and savor every bite!