Shaker Potatoes: The Ultimate Way to Transform Leftover Mashed Potatoes
Discover a delightful and inventive way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes with this Shaker Potatoes recipe, a surefire hit even with the pickiest of eaters. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. With its golden, crispy topping and creamy, cheesy interior, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup of cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons of butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 5 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the perfect bake.
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Prepare the Pan: Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from sticking and to help achieve a crispy crust.
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Spread the Mashed Potatoes: Evenly spread the leftover mashed potatoes across the bottom of the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth them out into an even layer.
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Add the Cheddar Cheese: Press the cubed cheddar cheese gently into the surface of the mashed potatoes. The cheese will melt and create delicious, gooey pockets throughout the dish.
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Layer the Onions: Scatter the finely chopped onion over the top of the mashed potatoes and cheese. The onions will caramelize slightly during baking, adding a sweet and savory flavor.
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Season the Dish: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the onions, followed by the breadcrumbs. This combination will form a crunchy, flavorful topping.
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Add Butter and Seasoning: Distribute the small cubes of butter over the top of the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The butter will melt and mix with the breadcrumbs, creating a delicious, golden crust.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact time will depend on your oven and the thickness of your potato layer. You’re looking for a golden-brown, crispy top and bubbling edges.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the Shaker Potatoes cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses and makes an excellent side dish for any occasion.
Variations:
- For added flavor, incorporate 3 slices of lightly cooked bacon, crumbled.
- Try mixing in 1 clove of minced garlic for an extra kick.
- Substitute the cheddar cheese with 1 cup of Swiss, Jarlsberg, Monterey Jack cheese, or a combination of your favorites.
- Fresh herbs, such as chives, thyme, or parsley, can be added for a burst of freshness.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 358.4
- Fat: 25.6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 16.1 grams
- Cholesterol: 72.2 milligrams
- Sodium: 724.3 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 21.2 grams
- Fiber: 2.5 grams
- Sugar: 2.4 grams
- Protein: 11.8 grams
This recipe yields four hearty servings, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or a cozy gathering. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 45 minutes, bringing the total time to just under an hour. Enjoy this delightful dish and watch it quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
