Discover the comforting flavors of a simple yet delicious dish with this Cheesy Potato and Onion Bake. Perfect for those who love hearty, savory recipes, this bake transforms everyday ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal that could easily rival any meat dish.
Ingredients:
- 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 3-4 eggs, beaten
- Salt, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of cornstarch
- Spring onions, chopped for garnish
- 150 grams of cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of dried garlic powder
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3 small tomatoes, sliced
- 4 slices of cheese for topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a round baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine beaten eggs with mayonnaise (or yogurt), garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in cornstarch until smooth.
- Add potatoes, ensuring each slice is coated.
- Gently fold in onions, spring onions, and grated cheese.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Layer half of the potato mixture in the dish.
- Arrange tomato slices over the layer.
- Top with the remaining potato mixture.
- Cover with cheese slices.
- Bake:
- Place in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Tips for the Perfect Potato and Onion Bake:
- Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin potato and onion slices for even cooking.
- Drain Excess Moisture: After slicing, let the potatoes and onions sit for a few minutes and then gently press out any excess moisture with paper towels. This helps achieve a crisper texture.
- Seasoning Layers: Season between layers to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors and textures. A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can offer both meltiness and a savory depth.
- Test for Doneness: Potatoes should be fork-tender and the top golden and bubbly before removing from the oven.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the bake to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing from the oven to help the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Cheesy Potato and Onion Bake is delicious and satisfying every time, while also being mindful of its nutritional impact.
Serving Suggestions:
This Cheesy Potato and Onion Bake serves wonderfully both as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread:
- Brunch Delight: Pair it with scrambled eggs and a fruit salad for a fulfilling brunch.
- Comforting Dinner: Complement it with a protein such as grilled chicken or a vegan alternative like grilled tofu to make a balanced dinner.
- Potluck Star: Its easy-to-serve nature makes it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can be a warm, comforting option amidst other dishes.
Nutrition Information:
The Cheesy Potato and Onion Bake is rich in nutrients but also calorie-dense, making portion control important:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving, mainly from the cheese and potatoes.
- Protein: Cheese and eggs provide a good amount of protein, crucial for body repair and maintenance.
- Carbohydrates: Primarily from potatoes, offering energy and helping to keep you full longer.
- Fat: Cheese and olive oil contribute healthy fats, but it’s important to consume in moderation.
- Fiber: Potatoes and onions are good sources of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes offer potassium, vitamin C, and B vitamins. Cheese adds calcium for bone health.