Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This creamy feta and potato bake is the perfect solution for busy cooks who want a healthy and delicious meal on the table in under an hour. This recipe boasts simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor – making it a true champion among easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your family with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the potatoes. Top with the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sprinkle half of the crumbled feta cheese over the onions and garlic.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, eggs, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. This creamy sauce is the key to the dish's rich and decadent flavor.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the feta cheese layer. Add the remaining potatoes and top with the remaining feta cheese. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you're using Parmesan cheese, watch carefully to avoid burning during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the bake rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm, and enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish! This is a quick dinner idea perfect for a weeknight meal.
Tips for the Best Feta and Potato Bake:
- Thinly sliced potatoes: Using thinly sliced potatoes ensures even cooking. You can use a mandoline slicer for consistency.
- Don't overcrowd the dish: Make sure you don't overcrowd the baking dish. This allows for proper airflow and prevents steaming.
- Fresh dill is key: Fresh dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the creamy feta perfectly.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste.
Variations:
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked sausage, bacon, or chicken to the layers.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses, such as goat cheese or ricotta cheese, in place of some of the feta.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This simple yet elegant feta and potato bake is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be incredible. Enjoy!