Cheese and Potato Bake

This delightful cheese and potato bake combines the rich flavors of Camembert and cottage cheese with the freshness of basil and tomatoes. It's a comforting dish with a creamy texture and a hint of spice from the garlic. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe blends simple ingredients with a sophisticated taste. Each bite offers a satisfying balance of textures, from the softness of baked potatoes to the creamy cheese topping. Prepared with love, this bake makes a wonderful centerpiece for family dinners. The fresh basil adds a fragrant aroma, and the garlic provides depth to the flavor profile. With its golden crust and savory taste, this dish is sure to impress both family and guests. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair with a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500g potatoes, that don't fall apart when boiled
• 250g tomatoes
• 200g Camembert cheese
• 250g cottage cheese (20%)
• 4 eggs
• 1 bunch of basil

Spices and Sauces

• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

• Total: 70 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a pot with a small amount of water and boil for about 30 minutes until tender.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, pluck the basil leaves from their stems and slice them into thin strips.
3. Peel the garlic cloves and prepare them for the mixture.
4. Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a bowl, mix the yolks with the sliced basil and minced garlic. Gradually add the cottage cheese, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to your preference.
5. To make cutting easier, slightly freeze the Camembert cheese for about 15 minutes. Then, dice it into small cubes and add them to the prepared mixture.
6. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form, and gently fold them into the cheese mixture. Place the mixture in a cool area while you prepare the rest.
7. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392°F).
8. Drain and peel the boiled potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds. This step can be prepped a day ahead if desired.
9. Wash the tomatoes, remove the cores, and slice them.
10. Lightly grease a baking dish with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
11. Layer the potato slices in the baking dish and sprinkle them with salt and pepper for seasoning.
12. Place the tomato slices over the potatoes, adding a touch more salt and pepper.
13. Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the tomato and potato layers.
14. Bake in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (356°F) for approximately 30 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
15. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
16. Enjoy your delicious cheese and potato bake! It's great for quick lunches or an easy dinner option.

Tips

• For creamier potatoes, use Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
• If Camembert cheese is unavailable, Brie can be used as a substitute.
• Enhance the flavor with additional herbs like thyme or oregano.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 22g
• Carbs: 35g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Add mushrooms or spinach for a heartier bake.
• For a Spicier Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chives for a pop of color.

Best Places

• Chez Cheese - Known for its exquisite cheese dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 13 Rue de la Fromagerie, Paris, France.
• The Gourmet Kitchen - Features a variety of creative cheese bakes. Location: 45 Cheese Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
• Cheese Corner - Offers an extensive cheese menu in a modern chic environment. Location: 22 Fromage Plaza, Brussels, Belgium.
• Fromage Haven - A quaint spot for cheese lovers, specializing in authentic cheese bakes. Location: 78 Gouda Street, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Käse Café - A rustic cafe serving traditional cheese bakes. Location: 12 Brie Alley, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Cheddar's Den - Known for its hearty cheese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Location: 9 Gruyere Court, San Francisco, USA.
• La Fromagerie - A trendy spot with a menu focused on cheese specialties. Location: 5 Roquefort Avenue, Montreal, Canada.
• Parmesan Palace - Offers world-class cheese dishes in an elegant setting. Location: 14 Rennet Road, Rome, Italy.
• The Cheese Chase - A lively establishment with innovative cheese bakes. Location: 28 Curd Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Queso Quarters - Famous for its robust cheese plates in a serene setting. Location: 6 Manchego Street, Madrid, Spain.