Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes

If you’re looking for a versatile and delicious dish that combines the richness of cheddar with the earthiness of potatoes, look no further than Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring together roasted potatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese in a unique muffin-sized bake. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even as a side dish at dinner, these bakes are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Red Potatoes and Yellow Onion: Dice and roast them together for a deliciously tender and flavorful base.
• Large Eggs: These help bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Cottage Cheese: Blended with the eggs to create a soft, fluffy texture with a mild cheese flavor.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Shredded and placed on top, it melts into a deliciously crispy finish.
• Chives: Chopped finely for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant green color.

Seasonings:

• Salt
• Onion Powder
• Smoked Paprika: Adds depth to the roasted potatoes.
• (Optional) Garlic Powder, Crushed Red Pepper, or Cayenne Pepper Powder: For an extra kick of spice.

Instructions

Step 1: Roast Potatoes and Prepare Egg Mixture

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Roast Potatoes: Spread the diced red potatoes and yellow onions evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Toss with a bit of oil, salt, and smoked paprika, then roast in the oven for 15 minutes. The roasting time enhances the potatoes’ natural flavors and helps create a crispy texture.

Prepare Egg Mixture: In a high-speed blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth for a creamy and fluffy base for your bakes. Spray a 12-slot muffin pan with oil to ensure the bakes come out easily.

Step 2: Assemble in Muffin Pan

Lower Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the bakes cook evenly.

Add Ingredients: Evenly distribute the roasted potatoes and onions into the muffin pan slots. Pour the egg mixture over the potatoes in each slot, then gently stir to combine the ingredients. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives over each muffin slot for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

Bake: Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes. For a golden, crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Cool: Allow the Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes to cool slightly before serving. This cooling time helps set the texture and makes it easier to remove them from the muffin pan.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• As a Breakfast or Brunch Dish: Serve the Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes alongside a fresh salad, fruit, or crispy bacon for a complete meal.
• As a Side Dish: Pair these savory bakes with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a hearty soup for a satisfying and balanced dinner.
• For a Touch of Extra Flavor: Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra fresh chives before serving.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: These bakes freeze well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a quick 30-60 seconds or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a crispier texture, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of reheating.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes as a delicious meal or snack all week long!

Variations

1. Bacon and Cheddar: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the mixture for a smoky, savory flavor. The bacon pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar and will elevate the taste of these bakes.
2. Spinach and Feta: For a lighter variation, swap out the cheddar for crumbled feta cheese and add a handful of fresh spinach. This combination adds a refreshing and slightly tangy twist to the dish.
3. Sausage and Peppers: Add cooked sausage and diced bell peppers to the potatoes before assembling the bakes. This variation makes for a heartier, more robust flavor, perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch.
4. Herbed Potato Cheddar Bakes: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the potatoes for an aromatic boost. You can also add a sprinkle of dried herbs to the egg mixture for extra depth of flavor.
5. Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar: For those who love heat, stir in finely chopped jalapeños into the potatoes or sprinkle them on top before baking. This will give your bakes a zesty kick, and the sharp cheddar complements the spice perfectly.
6. Vegetarian Delight: Add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the mix. These veggies can be roasted with the potatoes, adding both texture and flavor without overwhelming the dish.
7. Buffalo Style: For a tangy twist, mix a little buffalo sauce into the egg mixture before pouring it over the potatoes. This variation pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of ranch dressing on top.
8. Sweet Potato Cheddar Bakes: Substitute the red potatoes with diced sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more vibrant alternative. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances beautifully with the sharp cheddar and chives.
9. Cheesy Onion Soup: For a comforting twist, use French onion soup mix in the egg mixture for an added layer of flavor that mimics the taste of cheesy onion soup.
10. Vegan Version: Replace the eggs and cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like tofu or a vegan cheese blend to make this dish vegan-friendly while still maintaining its creamy texture.

These variations offer a range of flavors and textures, allowing you to customize your Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Try experimenting with different combinations to make this dish your own!

FAQs

1. Can I use russet potatoes instead of red potatoes? Yes, you can use russet potatoes, but red potatoes work better for a firmer texture and even cooking. Russet potatoes may become a bit softer and more starchy.
2. Can I make Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare them the day before and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them the next day, or reheat them in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes? Yes, these bakes freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
4. Can I substitute cottage cheese with another type of cheese? While cottage cheese gives a smooth texture, you could try ricotta or cream cheese as an alternative. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change slightly.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely and roast them with the potatoes.
6. How do I prevent the bakes from sticking to the muffin pan? Spray the muffin pan generously with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to avoid cleanup, you can also use silicone muffin pans.
7. Can I make these bakes without cheese? While cheese adds flavor and texture, you can make a cheese-free version by simply omitting the cheddar. You may want to add extra seasoning or try a dairy-free cheese alternative for added richness.
8. Can I use frozen potatoes or pre-diced potatoes? It’s best to use fresh potatoes for the best texture. Frozen potatoes may become too soft or watery when baked. If using pre-diced potatoes, make sure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture.
9. How long should I bake them for if I’m using a different sized muffin pan? If you’re using a smaller muffin pan, they may bake faster, so check them around 12-15 minutes. If using a larger pan, they may need a few extra minutes. The key is to check for firmness and a golden color on top.
10. Can I add spices or herbs to customize the flavor? Yes! You can experiment with spices like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika, and herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Tailor the seasoning to your taste preferences to make the dish unique.

Potato Cheddar Chive Bakes are the ultimate combination of savory flavors and textures. The crispy roasted potatoes, creamy egg mixture, and melty cheddar cheese come together in each muffin-sized serving, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a comforting side dish, these bakes are sure to impress. Try making them today, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Print