A Genius Trick to Cooking Potatoes: Everyone Should Know This!
Looking for a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish perfect for dinner or a family gathering? This creamy potato bake recipe combines tender potatoes, savory ham, fresh peas, and a luscious blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. It’s easy to prepare and delivers satisfying flavors in every bite.
Quick Recipe Guide
- Start by adding 1 kilo of potatoes cut into smaller pieces to a large baking dish.
- Then add 100 grams of unsalted butter cut into strips, 3 grams of fresh peas, 400 grams of cubed ham, and spread evenly. Sprinkle on a 240 milliliter cup of milk and 150 milliliters of vegetable stock.
- Top everything with 150 grams of grated mozzarella cheese and 150 grams of grated cheddar cheese. To season, add a pinch of black pepper, a pinch of dried garlic flakes, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
- Cover everything with aluminum foil, take to a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake for 40 minutes.
- After this time has passed, remove the aluminum foil, take it back to the oven, and let it bake until the cheese melts and browns.
- This is the right point! That recipe is ready. You may now serve and enjoy it.
Full Recipe with Details
Potato-based casseroles have been a beloved comfort food for centuries, with variations appearing in cuisines worldwide. Whether it’s French gratins or American cheesy bakes, these dishes share one goal: to create a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. This recipe adds a modern twist with ham, peas, and a two-cheese topping for extra indulgence.
Ingredients and Tools
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, cut into smaller pieces
- 100 g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, cut into strips
- 300 g (10.5 oz) fresh peas
- 400 g (14 oz) cubed ham
- 240 ml (1 cup) milk
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) vegetable stock
- 150 g (5.3 oz) grated mozzarella cheese
- 150 g (5.3 oz) grated cheddar cheese
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 pinch dried garlic flakes
- 1 pinch Italian seasoning
Tools:
- Large baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Preheated oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
Place 1 kg of potatoes, cut into smaller pieces, evenly in a large baking dish. - Add Butter and Ham:
Distribute 100 g of unsalted butter strips, 300 g of fresh peas, and 400 g of cubed ham over the potatoes. Spread everything evenly for uniform cooking. - Pour the Liquids:
Gently pour 240 ml of milk and 150 ml of vegetable stock over the mixture to add moisture and flavor. - Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle 150 g of grated mozzarella and 150 g of grated cheddar cheese on top to create a gooey, golden crust. - Season the Dish:
Add a pinch of black pepper, dried garlic flakes, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor. - Bake with Foil:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 40 minutes. - Brown the Cheese:
After 40 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. - Serve and Enjoy:
Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variations and Modifications
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the vegetable stock and seasoning are gluten-free.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots or baby spinach for additional nutrients.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 18g
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw the peas before adding them to the dish for even cooking.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything except the cheese topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the cheese just before baking.