Cheesy potatoes are a classic comfort food that combines tender potatoes with a creamy, cheesy sauce. This recipe is simple to make and results in a delicious, satisfying side dish perfect for any meal. Follow these steps to create a delightful cheesy potato dish that will be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 800g potatoes
- Water (for boiling)
- 1 tsp salt
- 20g corn starch
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 20g unsalted butter
- 5g flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 100ml milk
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes.
- Boil the Potatoes:
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add 1 tsp of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. Once the potatoes are drained, allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Coat the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss the boiled potatoes with the corn starch until they are evenly coated.
- This cooling process is essential as it helps the potatoes achieve a crispy texture when they are fried.
- Fry the Potatoes:
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated potatoes in a single layer and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. To prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking, you might need to fry the potatoes in multiple batches. This will allow each piece to crisp up properly without steaming or sticking together.
- Once fried, transfer the potatoes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Place a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow the butter to slowly melt, ensuring it doesn’t brown or burn, creating a smooth base for your dish.
- Add the flour and stir continuously to make a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it is lightly golden.
- Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan, continuously whisking as you add it. This gradual incorporation will help create a smooth mixture without any lumps, ensuring a creamy and consistent texture. Take your time during this step to achieve the best results. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp chili powder, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cheese, stirring until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Serve:
- Place the fried potatoes in a serving dish and pour the cheese sauce over them. Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly with the sauce.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnished with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Conclusion
This cheesy potato recipe offers an exceptional blend of crispy, golden-brown potatoes paired with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, creating an irresistible side dish for any occasion. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also bursts with savory flavors that are sure to make it a beloved favorite in your home. Serve this delicious and comforting dish to family and friends, and watch it become a staple at your dining table, perfect for both everyday meals and special gatherings. Enjoy!