Stuffed potatoes with ham and cheese

Stuffed potatoes with ham and cheese

The balance between a simple meal and a flavorful one is often marked by an easy-to-make dish that is full of taste. Today, I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for stuffed potatoes with ham and cheese, which will transform a common ingredient into a true culinary feast. This recipe is not only quick but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 kg potatoes (medium-sized with thin skin are ideal)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- 2 large slices of ham (approximately 100 g)
- 50 g pitted olives (preferably green olives for a taste contrast)
- 30 g butter
- 60 g feta cheese (preferably goat feta for a more intense flavor)
- 60 g cheese (smoked cheese will add a special note)
- A few leaves of rosemary or parsley (for an extra touch of freshness)
- Sour cream for serving (optional, but recommended for a creamy taste)

A brief history
Stuffed potatoes are a universal dish, found in various forms around the world. They have been popularized due to their versatility, being able to be filled with a wide range of ingredients, from meat to vegetables or cheese. The idea of stuffing a potato is an excellent way to create a satisfying and flavorful meal while also reducing food waste.

Step-by-step guide

1. Preparing the potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Do not peel them; the skin will add texture and flavor. Place the potatoes on a baking tray and put them in a preheated oven at 200°C. Bake for 35-40 minutes until they become tender (you can check with a fork).

2. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Cut the hard-boiled eggs into small cubes, and you can also cut the ham and olives into cubes or strips, according to your preference. Grate the feta and cheese, making sure to keep some cheese aside to cover the potatoes at the end. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, adding the melted butter for extra creaminess.

3. Stuffing the potatoes
Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes, then cut them in half. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh from each half of the potato, being careful to leave about a 1 cm border. Add the potato flesh to the bowl with the filling and mix well.

4. Assembling and final baking
Fill each half of the potato with the mixture obtained, making sure to fill them well. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top and add the rosemary or parsley leaves for a pleasing appearance and to enhance the flavors. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the tray and put them back in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes golden.

5. Serving
Stuffed potatoes are served warm, accompanied by a generous spoonful of sour cream, which will add extra flavor, and sprinkled with fresh parsley or rosemary for an attractive appearance. They can be accompanied by a crunchy green salad or a side of sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Useful tips
- Types of cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cottage cheese, to vary the flavor.
- Vegan options: You can adapt the recipe using tofu or vegan cheese and olive oil instead of butter.
- Spices: Add spices like smoked paprika or oregano to the filling mixture to enhance the flavors.

Frequently asked questions
- How can I store stuffed potatoes?
Stuffed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
- Can I use other fillings?
Of course! You can add sautéed vegetables, cooked ground meat, or even mushrooms to vary the recipe.

Conclusion
Stuffed potatoes with ham and cheese are not only a delicious choice but also a wonderful way to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This recipe will bring you joy at every meal and create pleasant memories with your loved ones. So embrace the art of cooking and savor every bite! Enjoy your meal!