Creamy Gouda and Dill Potato Bake
Indulge in a rich and creamy Gouda and Dill Potato Bake that combines the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes with the delicious creaminess of Gouda and ricotta cheese. This casserole is perfect for gatherings or as a hearty side dish, and the addition of dill adds a fresh, aromatic note that beautifully complements the cheese. Even those who are not fond of ricotta will be pleasantly surprised by its subtlety in this dish. For an even bolder flavor, opt for smoked Gouda! This dish serves well as comfort food, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners and festivities alike. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors in every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
russet potatoes
5 lbs (peeled and cut into chunks)
white onion
1 small (coarsely chopped)
butter
2 tablespoons (for mashing, plus 2-3 tablespoons melted for topping)
milk
3/4 cup
gouda cheese
4 ounces (shredded (smoked Gouda can be used for extra flavor))
part-skim ricotta cheese
8 ounces
dried dill weed
3/4-1 teaspoon (double if using fresh)
salt
1/2-1 teaspoon
pepper
1/4 teaspoon
garlic powder
1/4-1/2 teaspoon
paprika
to taste (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or spray a 13" x 9" baking dish and set aside.
2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the peeled and chunked russet potatoes along with the coarsely chopped onion. Cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
3
Drain the potatoes and onion well, then return them to the empty pot. Add the butter and milk to the potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy.
4
Stir in the shredded Gouda cheese, ricotta cheese, dried dill weed, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue to mash until everything is well combined and reaches your desired consistency.
5
Transfer the creamy potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the surface of the mashed potatoes, and then sprinkle paprika generously on top for added color and flavor.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, uncovered, or until the top is just starting to lightly brown and the casserole is heated through.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Gouda and Dill Potato Bake?
It is a rich and creamy casserole that combines mashed potatoes with Gouda and ricotta cheese, flavored with fresh dill.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include russet potatoes, white onion, butter, milk, Gouda cheese, ricotta cheese, dried dill weed, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
How many pounds of potatoes are required?
The recipe calls for 5 lbs of russet potatoes.
What type of onion should I use?
One small white onion, coarsely chopped, is recommended.
How should the potatoes be prepared before cooking?
The potatoes should be peeled and cut into chunks.
How long do the potatoes and onions need to boil?
Boil the potatoes and onions in salted water for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until tender.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What size baking dish should be used?
A 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish is the appropriate size for this recipe.
Can I use smoked Gouda instead of regular Gouda?
Yes, using smoked Gouda is recommended for those who want an even bolder flavor.
How much ricotta cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of part-skim ricotta cheese.
Can I substitute fresh dill for dried dill weed?
Yes, if you use fresh dill, you should double the amount compared to the dried measurement.
How much milk should be added to the potatoes?
Use 3/4 cup of milk to help achieve a creamy consistency.
What spices are used for seasoning the mixture?
Season the mixture with dried dill weed, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
How much butter is used for mashing the potatoes?
Two tablespoons of butter are used during the mashing process.
How much butter is drizzled on top of the casserole?
Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the surface before baking.
Why is paprika included in the recipe?
Paprika is sprinkled on top for added color and subtle flavor.
How long does the potato bake need to stay in the oven?
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes.
Should I cover the dish while it is baking?
No, the casserole should be baked uncovered.
What should the final consistency of the potatoes be?
The potatoes should be mashed until smooth and creamy before being placed in the baking dish.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday side dishes?
Yes, it is a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings and family dinners.
Can I use a different variety of potato?
While russets are recommended for their texture, other mashing potatoes like Yukon Gold can be used.
What if I am not a fan of ricotta cheese?
The ricotta flavor is very subtle in this dish, primarily contributing to the overall creaminess.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, lightly grease or spray the baking dish before transferring the potato mixture.
How do I know when the bake is ready?
The dish is ready when the top starts to lightly brown and the casserole is heated through.
What flavor does the dill contribute?
The dill adds a fresh, aromatic note that complements the Gouda cheese beautifully.
How much garlic powder should be added?
Use between 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder based on your preference.
Is the onion boiled with the potatoes or sautéed separately?
The onion is boiled directly with the potatoes in the salted water.
Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
Yes, salted butter works well; just adjust the added salt to your taste.
What is the first step in preparing this dish?
The first step is to preheat your oven and grease your 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish.
Is this dish considered a comfort food?
Yes, the combination of cheese and mashed potatoes makes it an ideal comfort food.