Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This cheesy Potatoes O'Brien recipe is a winner, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's packed with deliciousness, boasting tender potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and a generous helping of melted cheese. This recipe is a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be, creating a delicious dish without hours in the kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
- 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Wash and peel the Yukon Gold potatoes. Dice them into roughly ½-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Soaking the diced potatoes in cold water for about 15 minutes before cooking helps remove excess starch and results in a fluffier texture.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds a wonderful base of flavor for the dish.
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Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet along with the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the butter and seasonings.
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Simmer the Potatoes: Add about ½ cup of water to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the water evaporates too quickly, add a tablespoon or two more as needed.
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Melt the Cheese: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy. The residual heat from the potatoes will melt the cheese beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. This cheesy Potatoes O'Brien is delicious as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even fish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheesy Potatoes O'Brien:
- Potato Variety: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because of their creamy texture and mild flavor. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they might become slightly drier.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate all the vegetables without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, resulting in soggy potatoes.
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack would add a nice kick!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This cheesy Potatoes O'Brien recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a simple yet satisfying side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!