Potato pudding with cow cheese

Potato and Cottage Cheese Casserole

Who doesn't love a comforting dish that combines the creamy taste of cheese with the delicate texture of potatoes? Potato and cottage cheese casserole is a meal that evokes family gatherings, moments spent together, and the warm aroma of our homes. This simple yet delicious dish can be served as an appetizer or a main course, and today I will show you how to prepare it perfectly, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 6-7 medium-sized potatoes
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 5 tablespoons cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated feta cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt to taste
- Optional: ½ bunch fresh dill (for added flavor)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot for boiling the potatoes
- A mixer or whisk for beating the egg whites
- A large bowl for mixing the ingredients
- A baking dish or oven-safe dish
- A fork for mashing the potatoes

A brief history

Potato and cottage cheese casserole is an example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into delicious dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, adapted by each family. While it may seem like a basic dish, the combination of potatoes and cheese has been appreciated throughout history for its comforting texture and unmistakable flavor.

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, place them in a pot of salted water, making sure to boil them with their skins on. This will help retain the flavors and nutrients.

2. Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked (about 20-30 minutes, depending on their size), drain them and let them cool slightly. Peel them and mash them well with a fork or potato masher. Ensure there are no lumps, as a smooth texture is essential for the casserole.

3. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, add the mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, grated feta, melted butter, egg yolks, sour cream, and flour. Mix all the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. Make sure the cottage cheese is not too watery; otherwise, the casserole will turn out soft.

4. Beat the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step will ensure an airy texture for the casserole. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the potato mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate them.

5. Prepare the baking dish: Grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and will give it a golden crust.

6. Pour the mixture: Add the potato mixture to the prepared dish and level the surface with a spatula. If desired, you can add the chopped dill now for extra flavor.

7. Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and place the dish in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is golden and firm to the touch.

8. Cooling: Once the casserole is done, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is important for it to be cooler than warm to achieve perfect slices that won’t crumble.

Serving

Potato and cottage cheese casserole can be served warm or at room temperature. You can accompany it with a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill for a delicious contrast of flavors. You can also add some slices of tomatoes or cucumbers for an extra touch of freshness.

Helpful tips

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the cottage cheese with soy cheese or feta cheese for a vegan version of this dish.
- Enhancing flavor: Add spices like nutmeg or white pepper to the mixture for a more sophisticated taste.
- Quick recipe: If you don’t have time to boil the potatoes, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes—just ensure they are of good quality.

Nutritional information

This casserole is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, especially due to the cheese and butter. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients used. It is an excellent choice for a comforting lunch or dinner, providing energy and necessary nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious and healthy choice, adding a hint of sweetness to the casserole.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
The casserole keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave. You can also transform it into delicious croquettes!

3. How can I customize the recipe?
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the mixture to enhance the flavor and add more vitamins.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! Prepare this potato and cottage cheese casserole and enjoy a comforting dish full of flavor. I invite you to share your impressions and results—cooking becomes even more enjoyable when shared with loved ones! Enjoy your meal!