Gratinated potatoes with cheese and sour cream

Gratinated potatoes with cheese and sour cream: a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Gratinated potatoes with cheese and sour cream are a dish that brings a touch of warmth and comfort to every meal. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for serving at a family dinner or as a side dish to various main courses. Whether it's an ordinary day or a special occasion, these potatoes easily become the stars of the table.

A brief history

Gratinated potatoes, also known as "au gratin," have their origins in European culinary tradition. This cooking technique involves covering foods with a crispy layer of cheese or breadcrumbs, which brown in the oven. In our recipe, we combined potatoes with cheese and sour cream to create a creamy and delicious dish that will win over anyone.

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes
- 200 g cheese and sour cream (of the "Fine Something" type)
- 150 g cheese (we recommend Sofia cheese)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

Necessary utensils

- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Baking dish or another oven-safe container
- Grater for cheese
- Wooden spoon or spatula

Step by step

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and washing them well under cold running water. You can slice them thinly (about 5 mm) for even baking.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on the potato slices, gently mixing them to distribute the seasonings.

3. Initial baking: Arrange the potatoes in the baking dish in a single layer. Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Let the potatoes bake for 30-35 minutes.

4. Turning the potatoes: After the first 20 minutes, carefully turn the potato slices to the other side to ensure even cooking.

5. Preparing the cheese mixture: In a bowl, mix the cheese with the sour cream, grated cheese, and dill torn into small pieces. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined to achieve a creamy mixture.

6. Finalizing the dish: Once the potatoes are ready, pour the cheese mixture evenly over them. Cover each potato slice with the mixture, ensuring no portions are left uncovered.

7. Final baking: Put the dish back in the oven and let it bake for another 7-12 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns a golden and crispy color.

8. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This dish is best served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a tomato salad.

Practical tips

- Choosing potatoes: Use "Sweet" or "Red" potatoes, which bake well and have a creamy texture. They will enhance the dish's flavor.
- Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or brie, to add new flavors.
- Variations: Add vegetables (e.g., leeks or onions) to the cheese mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits

Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and vitamins, such as vitamin C and B6. Cheese and sour cream provide protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet. This dish can be part of a healthy eating plan when enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use boiled potatoes instead of raw potatoes? It is not recommended, as boiled potatoes will not have the same texture and crispiness during baking.
- How can I make the recipe easier? You can use frozen pre-sliced potatoes, which will significantly reduce preparation time.
- What other dishes can I serve with gratinated potatoes? This dish is delicious alongside grilled chicken, pork roast, or baked fish.

Personal stories

I fondly remember family meals when my mom would prepare gratinated potatoes with cheese and sour cream. It was a joy to gather around the table, and the enticing aroma of baked potatoes made us eagerly await our serving. This recipe is more than just a dish; it is a tradition that connects us and fills our hearts with warmth.

So, don't hesitate to bring your family and friends together to enjoy these delicious gratinated potatoes. Bon appétit!