Baked potatoes with ham and cheese and white sauce

Baked Potatoes with Ham and Cheese, Served with White Sauce

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

In every kitchen, there are recipes that truly become family favorites. These baked potatoes with ham and cheese, accompanied by a creamy white sauce, are surely one of those recipes. This delicious combination of flavors and textures will win your heart and taste buds, proving that comfort food can also be elegant.

Inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize simple yet quality ingredients, this recipe will remind you of the savory meals spent with loved ones. Whether you serve this dish at a family dinner or a special occasion, you will surely be applauded for your cooking skills.

Nutritional Benefits

Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, while ham and cheese add protein and healthy fats. The yogurt sauce is a lighter alternative to cream-based sauces, providing beneficial probiotics for digestion. This recipe is rich in nutrients, balancing taste and health.

Ingredients

For 4 servings, you will need:

- 8 medium boiling potatoes
- For the filling:
- 100 grams of cooked ham, diced
- 200 grams of cheese, diced
- 1 bunch of green onions, sliced
- 1 tomato, blanched and chopped
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- For the sauce:
- 300 ml of plain yogurt
- 1 spring onion (or onion, as preferred)
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, crushed

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes well under running water, using a brush to remove any impurities.
- Gently scrub the skin of each potato to remove any residues.
- Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a teaspoon, leaving a skin about 1 cm thick. The scooped flesh will be used later in the filling.

2. Preparing the Filling:
- Cut the potato flesh into small cubes. Make sure the sizes are uniform for even cooking.
- In a pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the ham and sauté until it becomes slightly crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the potato cubes and green onions, continuing to sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
- Remove the pan from heat and incorporate the chopped tomato, cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Filling the Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Place the potato halves in a greased baking dish with the cut side facing up.
- Fill each potato half with the ham and cheese mixture, ensuring they are well filled.

4. Baking:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the filling is golden and delicious.

5. Preparing the White Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt with the crushed garlic and finely chopped spring onion. Add salt and pepper to taste. This fresh sauce will add a crunchy and refreshing contrast to your dish.

6. Serving:
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve them hot, alongside the yogurt sauce in a small bowl. Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the yogurt sauce. Additionally, if you want a spicy note, you can add chili flakes to the filling. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to adapt the recipe to your taste.

These baked potatoes are delicious alongside a fresh green salad or as a side dish for a juicy steak. They are also an excellent choice for a picnic, as they keep well and are easy to transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
- Yes, sweet potatoes can be an interesting alternative, offering a sweet flavor and soft texture.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and the cheese with vegan cheese.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
- A dry white wine or a pale beer are excellent options. Additionally, a cold lemon tea would perfectly complement the meal.

4. Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Fill the potatoes and bake them before serving.

Conclusion

Baked potatoes with ham and cheese, served with a creamy white sauce, are a wonderful choice for any occasion. This simple and delicious recipe brings a touch of joy to every meal, and each bite will take you back to moments filled with warmth and love. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your personal touch to this classic recipe! Enjoy!