Layered Potatoes

Delicious Layered Potatoes Recipe

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

If you're looking for a simple and delightful recipe, layered potatoes are a perfect choice! This recipe combines the fluffy texture of potatoes with the intense flavors of cottage cheese and pork chops, offering a savory dish ideal for any meal.

### Ingredients:

- 6 medium potatoes
- 200 g cottage cheese
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 6 slices of smoked pork chop
- 50 g butter
- 100 g grated cheese
- A few olives (preferably green for a color contrast)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dried rosemary, to preference
- Fresh dill, finely chopped

### Step by Step:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water, making sure to remove any impurities. Boil them in their skins in a pot of salted water. Boil until a fork easily pierces them, usually between 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.

2. Peeling and mashing: Once boiled, drain them and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Peel and coarsely mash them with a fork. This will give the desired slightly rustic texture.

3. Cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese with sour cream. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Season with salt and pepper, then add the chopped fresh dill, which will bring a fresh note to the dish.

4. Assembling the layers: Grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Start layering with mashed potatoes, sprinkling salt, pepper, and a bit of dried rosemary for added flavor. Add small cubes of butter here and there to enhance the taste.

5. Adding cheese and meat: Evenly spread the cottage cheese mixture over the potato layer, followed by the slices of smoked pork chop. This will provide a rich and hearty consistency.

6. Final layer: Cover with the remaining mashed potatoes and finish with a generous layer of grated cheese. This will melt and form a delicious golden crust.

7. Decorating with olives: Arrange the olives around the dish, forming a colorful and appetizing border.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the dish inside. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.

9. Serving: Let the dish cool slightly before slicing. Served warm, this dish can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.

### Practical Tips:

- For added flavor, you can include some dried herbs like oregano or thyme in the cheese mixture.
- Variations: Instead of smoked pork chop, you can use chicken meat or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also replace cottage cheese with ricotta or feta cheese to experiment with flavors.
- Serving: This dish is also great reheated, so feel free to prepare it in advance for family meals or quick lunches!

Enjoy this layered potato recipe that combines simplicity with richness of flavor. It’s a versatile dish perfect for any occasion that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!