New potatoes with baked cheese

New potatoes with cheese baked in the oven: A simple and delicious recipe

When it comes to simple yet flavorful dishes, new potatoes with baked cheese are definitely a winning choice. This dish is not only easy to make but also offers a perfect combination of the creamy texture of melted cheese and the freshness of new potatoes. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside meat. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 6-7 large new potatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 150 g cheese (preferably a semi-hard cheese that melts well)
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Necessary utensils:

- Large pot for boiling
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Grater with large holes
- Spatula or wooden spoon

Step by step:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Start by washing the new potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove all impurities and dirt. Then, using a knife, peel the potatoes, but if you prefer, you can leave the thin skin on, which is full of nutrients.

2. Boiling the potatoes:
Cut the potatoes into larger cubes, about 3-4 cm. Place them in a pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they become slightly tender, but not too soft. The goal is to keep them firm so they don’t break apart during baking.

3. Preparing the tray:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C for a fan oven). While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the baking tray. Place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom to prevent the potatoes from sticking and to make cleaning easier.

4. Seasoning:
After the potatoes have boiled, drain them well. Place them in the prepared tray. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and sweet paprika over them to taste. Gently mix to ensure each potato cube is coated with the seasonings.

5. Adding butter and cheese:
Add small cubes of butter over the potatoes. This step will add flavor and help the cheese become creamy. Finally, grate the cheese using a grater with large holes and sprinkle it evenly over the potatoes.

6. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and leave it for 15-20 minutes. You will know they are ready when the cheese has melted beautifully and has developed a light golden crust.

7. Serving:
Once the potatoes are ready, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a platter. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness and a splash of color. You can serve the potatoes plain or as a side dish for a piece of tender meat.

Chef's tip:

If you want to add a special touch to your recipe, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Smoked cheese will provide a more intense flavor, while a blue cheese mix can add an interesting aroma. You can also add herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme to enrich the flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

New potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin B6. Cheese, on the other hand, is rich in calcium, protein, and healthy fats. Thus, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, providing you with the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of new potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but the boiling time may be longer, so make sure to check them with a fork to ensure they are tender.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or grilled vegetables to enrich the dish.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and the next day you can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

4. What can this dish be paired with?
Baked cheese potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meat, grilled fish, or fresh salads.

Personal notes:

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my family, being a perfect dish for weekend meals or to impress guests. I remember how, in my childhood, my grandmother always used cheese from the market, and the aroma that filled the house was simply irresistible. I encourage you to experiment and add your own variations, turning this recipe into a personalized dish that brings back beautiful memories.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking. Enjoy your meal!