Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. This potato and onion bake is one such dish. It’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect side dish or even a main course for vegetarians. With its rich, creamy sauce and the slight crunch of baked cheese on top, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 5 medium potatoes: Peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces. Potatoes are the star of this dish, providing a hearty and satisfying base.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the potatoes during boiling.
- 200 grams of ham: Diced (optional). For those who enjoy meat, ham adds a nice smoky flavor. You can omit this for a vegetarian version.
- 1 onion: Finely chopped. Onions add sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons oil: For sautéing the onion and ham.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Helps to thicken the cream sauce.
- 500 ml milk: Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Provides a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that deliciously gooey, cheesy topping.
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Begin by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes into a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Ham:
- While the potatoes are boiling, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- If you’re including ham, add it to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown slightly. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season the sauce with black pepper and oregano to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, sautéed onions, and ham. Pour the cream sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the potato mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Final Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional oregano if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Cheese Variations:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, gouda, or even a sharp blue cheese can add unique flavors to the dish.
- Vegetarian Option:
- To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and flavor.
- Creamier Sauce:
- For an even creamier sauce, you can replace half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Herbs and Spices:
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to the cream sauce for additional flavor. Adjust the amount of black pepper and oregano to suit your taste.
- Crispy Top:
- If you prefer a crispy top, you can mix some breadcrumbs with the shredded cheese before sprinkling it over the potato mixture.
Why This Dish is a Hit
This potato and onion bake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to make. Here are a few reasons why it stands out:
- Comfort Food:
- The combination of potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and satisfying.
- Simple Ingredients:
- This recipe uses basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Despite its simplicity, the flavors are rich and complex.
- Versatility:
- This dish can be served as a side with roasted meats or as a main course for a lighter meal. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham or other vegetables you have on hand.
- Crowd-Pleaser:
- Whether you’re serving this at a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. The creamy, cheesy goodness appeals to both kids and adults alike.
In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s better than meat – a rich, creamy, and flavorful potato and onion bake. It’s perfect for those nights when you need something comforting and satisfying. Try this recipe out and watch it become a staple in your household. Enjoy!
