Crispy Baked Potatoes with Cheese and Butter

This recipe for crispy baked potatoes with cheese and butter is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. The potatoes are sliced thinly but kept intact, allowing them to soak in the richness of melted butter and cheese. Infused with rosemary, this dish offers a fragrant aroma and a delightful taste. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted for different taste preferences and dietary needs. The crispy edges of the potatoes contrast beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior. Whether prepared for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please. With a preparation time of less than an hour, it's both convenient and impressive. It's also a great way to enjoy the simplicity of humble ingredients turned into a delicious treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large potatoes
3 tablespoons butter
150g hard cheese, grated

Spices

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total: Approximately 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 Fahrenheit).
Peel and wash the potatoes. Dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
Place each potato on a large spoon and make thin slices across the potato without cutting all the way through. This spoon technique helps keep the potato intact.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
In a bowl, mix the grated cheese with melted butter, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary until combined.
Arrange the sliced potatoes in a baking dish, ensuring they are well spaced.
Insert a small amount of the cheese mixture into each cut of the potato.
Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil to trap steam, which aids in cooking the potatoes evenly.
Bake the potatoes for about 30 minutes or until they're nearly tender.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the potatoes develop a golden, crisp crust.
Check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are cooked through.
Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Garnish with additional rosemary to intensify the herb’s aroma.
Serve immediately while the potatoes are hot and the cheese is melted.
For extra crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for the last few minutes.
Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Consider adding garlic to the butter for enhanced flavor.
Leftovers can be reheated, making this a great make-ahead dish.
To make it healthier, substitute half of the butter with olive oil.
Enjoy your crispy baked potatoes as a delectable side or a satisfying main dish!

Tips

Use red potatoes or Yukon Gold for the best texture.
Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or Gruyère for varied flavors.
To make the recipe vegetarian-friendly, ensure the cheese does not contain animal rennet.

Nutritions

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 40g

Variations

Add bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste.
Include caramelized onions for additional sweetness and depth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty dinner.
Garnish with sour cream and chives for a classic touch.

Best Places

Potato Head - Offers a wide range of gourmet potato dishes. Location: Petitenget, Bali, Indonesia.
Spud Bar - Specializes in loaded baked potatoes with unique toppings. Location: Melbourne, Australia.
The Potato Project - Known for innovative potato dishes. Location: London, United Kingdom.
Mash & Barrel - Renowned for their mash potato variations. Location: Great Yarmouth, United Kingdom.
The Noble Spud - Offers rustic and hearty potato meals. Location: Galway, Ireland.
Papas & Company - Specializes in Spanish-style potato tapas. Location: Madrid, Spain.
The Potato Factory - Famous for their creative mash blends. Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Kartoffelkeller - A traditional German restaurant offering potato-based dishes. Location: Berlin, Germany.
Potato Corner - Popular for flavored potato fries. Location: Manila, Philippines.
Pomme Café - Combines French potato dishes with great coffee. Location: Paris, France.