Potatoes with cheese in the oven

OVEN-BAKED POTATOES WITH CHEESE - A DELICIOUS AND HEALTHY RECIPE

Who doesn't love a simple yet tasty dish that brings a touch of nostalgia in every bite? Oven-baked potatoes with cheese are an excellent choice for a quick dinner and a wonderful option for festive meals. This recipe, with deep roots in culinary traditions, combines the creamy texture of cheese with the inviting aroma of baked potatoes, resulting in a main dish that delights both in taste and appearance. Let's start our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS:
- 1 kg potatoes
- 200 g cow cheese
- 200 g sour cream
- 2 eggs
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (optional)
- 50 g margarine (for greasing)
- fresh dill (to taste)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any traces of dirt, as we will use the potatoes with their skin. Place them in a large pot and fill it with water. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water and let the potatoes boil over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until they become soft but not overly mushy. Check their consistency with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready!

2. Preparing the cheese mixture: While the potatoes are boiling, you can prepare the cheese mixture. In a large bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt. Add the cow cheese, which can be easily crumbled with a fork for better mixing. Incorporate the sour cream and mix everything until you get a homogeneous composition. Finally, add the finely chopped fresh dill, which will bring a fresh taste and a special aroma.

3. Peeling and slicing the potatoes: After the potatoes are boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, peel them and cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. Even slicing ensures even baking and an aesthetic presentation.

4. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Take a baking dish and grease it well with margarine to prevent sticking. Place a first layer of potato slices at the bottom of the dish, followed by a generous layer of the cheese mixture. Continue with another layer of potatoes, and finally, cover everything with the remaining cheese. This layered arrangement will create an interesting texture and a contrast of flavors.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese on top forms a golden and appetizing crust. If you want an even crispier crust, you can turn on the grill function in the last 5 minutes of baking.

6. Serving: Once the oven-baked potatoes with cheese are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. This dish is served warm, seasoned with a little freshly ground pepper and, if you wish, more fresh dill for an extra flavor boost.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS AND VARIATIONS:
Oven-baked potatoes with cheese can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers, which will add a crunchy and fresh note. You can also add some olives or roasted bell peppers to the cheese mixture to diversify the flavors.

Another variation would be to replace the cow cheese with feta cheese or a matured cheese for a more intense taste. If you are a fan of spices, you can also add a little crushed garlic to the cheese mixture to enhance the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use peeled potatoes? Although the original recipe recommends potatoes with skin, you can choose to peel them if you prefer. However, the skin adds extra nutrients and an interesting texture.
- How can I make the recipe easier? If you have limited time, you can use pre-cooked potatoes or store-bought boiled potatoes. Just make sure to heat them well before assembling with the cheese.
- What are the nutritional benefits of this recipe? Potatoes are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, while cheese provides protein and calcium. Dill adds vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy.

OVEN-BAKED POTATOES WITH CHEESE are a perfect choice for a family meal or to impress guests. I invite you to try this simple yet flavorful recipe and leave your personal mark on it. You might discover a unique combination that becomes your favorite! Enjoy your meal!