Oven-baked potatoes with ham, onion, and sour cream

Oven-baked potatoes with ham, onion, and sour cream

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a simple yet extremely tasty recipe: oven-baked potatoes with ham, onion, and sour cream. This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Get ready to indulge your taste buds!

A brief introduction to the history of the recipe

Oven-baked potatoes have a rich history, being a beloved dish in many cultures for their versatility and accessibility. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ham and onion with the creaminess of sour cream and cheese, creating a comforting dish that will bring a smile to your face. Moreover, the ingredients are easy to find, making the recipe perfect for anyone, regardless of their cooking experience.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes (choose new potatoes for a more delicate texture)
- 3 large onions (preferably white or yellow onion for a sweet taste)
- 300 g ham (you can also use prosciutto or bacon, depending on your preferences)
- 500 g low-fat sour cream (for a healthier option)
- 100 ml oil (olive oil adds an extra flavor)
- 2 eggs (to bind the mixture)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 150 g smoked Gouda cheese (or other smoked cheeses for an intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)
- 25 g butter (for a rich and aromatic taste)

Preparation of ingredients

1. Washing and boiling the potatoes: Start by thoroughly washing the potatoes under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot with salted water and boil for 10-15 minutes until they are slightly soft but not fully cooked. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture in the end.

2. Peeling and slicing the potatoes: Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, peel them and slice them into thin rounds. This will allow the flavors to penetrate better.

3. Preparing the onion and ham: Peel the onions and cut them into julienne strips. In a frying pan, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring frequently until it becomes translucent. Add the sliced ham and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the ham becomes slightly crispy. This process will enhance the flavors and add depth to the dish.

4. Preparing the mixture: Place the onion and ham mixture in a large bowl. Add the sour cream, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are combined.

Assembling the dish

1. Preparing the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Choose a non-stick baking dish and grease it with butter, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs on the bottom. This step will help form a delicious crust.

2. Layer of potatoes: Place a first layer of potatoes in the dish, covering the bottom evenly.

3. Layer of mixture: Pour a layer of the ham and sour cream mixture over the potatoes, ensuring the distribution is even.

4. Repeating layers: Repeat this process, alternating between layers of potatoes and layers of mixture until you finish all the ingredients. Make sure the last layer is the sour cream mixture.

5. Adding cheese: Finally, place thin slices of smoked Gouda cheese on top of the dish. This will form a golden and appetizing crust during baking.

Baking

Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30 minutes. It is ready when the cheese on top becomes golden and nicely browned. I recommend checking it occasionally to avoid burning.

Serving

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before cutting it, to allow it to set well. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, to balance the textures and flavors. A bottle of white wine or apple juice will perfectly complement the meal.

Chef's tip

If you want to vary the recipe, you can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini, sliced thinly, between the layers of potatoes for an extra nutrient boost. Additionally, replacing the ham with sautéed mushrooms can transform this dish into a delicious vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is rich in carbohydrates due to the potatoes, providing long-lasting energy. The onion adds antioxidants, while the sour cream and cheese contribute protein and calcium. Being a relatively easy-to-digest recipe, it is perfect for an evening meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a pleasant sweetness and a vibrant look to the dish.

2. How can I make the recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of sour cream and ham, using Greek yogurt and fresh vegetables instead.

3. What other recipes pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs excellently with a tomato and basil salad or even with a light vegetable soup.

In conclusion, oven-baked potatoes with ham, onion, and sour cream are a simple yet flavorful dish that will turn any meal into a feast. I encourage you to experiment and add your own personal touches, so that each serving becomes a reflection of your culinary style. Enjoy your meal!