Oven-baked potatoes with cheese

Oven-Baked Cheese Potatoes: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Who can resist a serving of oven-baked cheese potatoes? This dish is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile, perfect for a quick family dinner or as a side for a special lunch. With a rich history, potatoes have been considered a staple food in many cultures, providing energy and good cheer. In today's recipe, we will explore a simple and tasty way to prepare cheese potatoes that will make you feel like a true kitchen master.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes (choose Russet or Yukon Gold for better texture)
- 100 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil, depending on preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste (sea salt is ideal for a stronger flavor)
- One cup of water (approximately 250 ml)
- 250 g cheese or cheese (Feta or mozzarella are also excellent options)

Necessary tools:
- An oven preheated to 200°C
- A baking tray
- A good knife for cutting the potatoes
- A grater or knife for cutting the cheese
- A spatula for mixing

Step 1: Preparing the potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes under cold running water, removing any impurities. Once cleaned, cut them into thick slices of about 1 cm. This thickness will allow the potatoes to cook evenly while maintaining a pleasant texture.

Step 2: Assembling the dish
Take the baking tray and pour the olive oil. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer, ensuring each slice is coated with oil. This will help achieve a nicely browned crust. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, making sure to evenly cover the potatoes. Add one cup of water to the tray, which will help cook the potatoes.

Step 3: Initial baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the potatoes bake for 30 minutes. It is important not to open the oven during the first 20 minutes, as temperature variations can affect even cooking. After 30 minutes, check if the potatoes have started to soften. Use a fork to test them; if it goes in easily, it's time to move on to the next step.

Step 4: Adding the cheese
Carefully remove the tray from the oven, being cautious of the hot steam. Grate or slice the chosen cheese over the potatoes. You can choose to use Feta cheese for a stronger flavor or mozzarella for a creamier texture. Return the tray to the oven and let it bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned golden.

Step 5: Serving
After removing the tray from the oven, allow the potatoes to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a fresh vegetable salad or a portion of Greek yogurt, which will add a refreshing note to the dish.

Practical tips:
- Experiment with different types of cheese or add spices like oregano or rosemary to diversify the flavors.
- If you want a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of oil or use extra virgin olive oil.
- For a more elegant presentation, you can garnish the plate with fresh parsley leaves.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
- While possible, it’s better to use raw potatoes to achieve a crispy exterior and soft interior.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated the next day. You can also turn leftover potatoes into a delicious mash.

3. How can I customize the recipe?
- You can add vegetables like onions or peppers to the tray for extra flavor. You can also serve them with different sauces, such as a tomato sauce or a yogurt sauce.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This oven-baked cheese potato recipe offers approximately 350 calories per serving (depending on the type of cheese used). Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, while cheese adds protein and calcium. This combination will not only satisfy your hunger but also help keep you energized throughout the day.

In conclusion, the oven-baked cheese potato recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to prepare a simple yet hearty dish. Try adding your variations and experimenting with different ingredients to discover your favorite combination. Enjoy your meal!