1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Wash the potatoes and cut them into your desired shape, such as wedges, slices, or cubes.
Place the cut potatoes into a baking dish that’s large enough to hold them in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Season the Potatoes:
In a small bowl, combine 100 ml olive oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 clove minced garlic.
Pour the seasoning mixture over the potatoes in the baking dish and toss them well to coat the potatoes evenly in the mixture.
3. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 35 minutes at 200°C (392°F), or until they are tender and slightly crispy on the edges.
4. Add the Toppings:
After 35 minutes, remove the potatoes from the oven.
Arrange slices of ham (jamon) between the potato pieces, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan over the top.
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and golden brown.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the dill sauce. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons yogurt (or sour cream), chopped fresh dill, chopped tomato, 1 teaspoon mustard, 1 clove minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
6. Serve:
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Drizzle the prepared dill sauce over the baked potatoes or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying dish.
Serving Suggestions:
With a Side Salad:
Serve this dish with a green salad made with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the potatoes and cheese.
As a Main Course:
These baked potatoes can serve as a main course when paired with a side of steamed vegetables, roasted chicken, or grilled fish for a well-rounded meal.
For a Comforting Dinner:
Enjoy this dish with a comforting bowl of soup, such as a tomato soup or vegetable broth, to complete your cozy meal.
With Garlic Bread:
Serve the potatoes with a side of garlic bread or crispy toast to soak up any leftover sauce and cheese.
Cooking Tips:
Adjust the Seasonings:
Feel free to adjust the amount of paprika, soy sauce, and garlic to your taste. You can add extra spice with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.
Use a Variety of Cheeses:
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella, to create a unique flavor profile. Adding a bit of blue cheese or cream cheese can make the sauce extra creamy and flavorful.
Crispier Potatoes:
For extra crispy potatoes, after coating them with the seasoning mixture, place them on a baking rack rather than directly in the dish. This will allow air to circulate around the potatoes, making them crispier.
Vegetarian Option:
Omit the ham to make this dish vegetarian, or replace it with vegetarian bacon or mushrooms for added texture.
Make Ahead:
You can prepare the potatoes and seasoning mixture the day before. Refrigerate them, then bake the next day with the cheese and ham on top.
Variations to Try:
Spicy Potatoes:
Add a pinch of chili powder or jalapeños to the seasoning mixture to give the dish a spicy twist.
Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bake:
Add steamed broccoli along with the potatoes for an added veggie boost and a more colorful dish.
Bacon and Cheese Potatoes:
For a meaty variation, add crispy bacon bits instead of the ham, and sprinkle cheddar cheese and parmesan on top for an extra cheesy flavor.
Sweet Potato Version:
Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a healthier, sweeter twist on this savory dish. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with the salty cheese and ham.
Vegan Version:
Make this dish vegan by using plant-based cheese and vegan yogurt or sour cream. You can also substitute tempeh or vegan sausage for the ham.
Conclusion:
These Baked Potatoes with Ham, Cheese, and Dill Sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese, along with the tangy and fresh dill sauce, makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to please a crowd and leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen potato wedges or pre-cut frozen potatoes. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen potatoes may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and season them the day before, then bake with cheese and ham on the day you want to serve them.
Can I make this dish without the ham?
Absolutely! You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding extra vegetables or plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tempeh.
How do I make the sauce creamier?
To make the sauce extra creamy, add a bit of cream cheese or coconut milk instead of yogurt or sour cream.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked potatoes for up to 3 months.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the potato mixture before baking for more texture and flavor.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gruyère, or mozzarella. Mixing a few types of cheese adds complexity to the flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes to the potato mixture for a spicy twist.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use vegan cheese and vegan sour cream or yogurt, and substitute the ham with vegan bacon or tempeh.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
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