Cheesy Potato Squares

Introduction

If you love potatoes and cheese, then this recipe for Cheesy Potato Squares is a must-try! These delicious squares are a perfect combination of crispy and creamy, making them a great side dish or snack option. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to indulge in a savory treat, these Cheesy Potato Squares are sure to satisfy your cravings. Read on to learn how to make this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

For the potato squares:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the dipping sauce:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the potato squares

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing a baking dish.

Next, take the grated potatoes and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This will help ensure that the potato squares turn out crispy.

In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Transfer the potato mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the potato squares are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Prepare the dipping sauce

In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped fresh chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Transfer the dipping sauce to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Serve and enjoy

Once the Cheesy Potato Squares are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut them into squares or rectangles of your desired size.

Arrange the potato squares on a serving platter and serve them warm with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy these Cheesy Potato Squares as a delicious side dish or as a snack on their own!

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Bacon and Jalapeno:

Add cooked and crumbled bacon and diced jalapenos to the potato mixture before baking. This will give the squares a spicy and smoky flavor.

2. Herb and Garlic:

Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, along with some minced garlic, to the potato mixture. This will infuse the squares with a burst of aromatic flavors.

3. Loaded Potato:

Top the baked potato squares with additional shredded cheese, cooked bacon bits, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream. This variation is perfect for those who love all the classic loaded potato toppings.

Tips

Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results with this Cheesy Potato Squares recipe:

1. Use starchy potatoes:

Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for this recipe. They will provide the best texture and flavor.

2. Adjust the seasonings:

Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. You can also add other seasonings like paprika or dried herbs.

3. Ensure even grating:

When grating the potatoes, try to make them as uniform in size as possible. This will ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the squares.

4. Make ahead:

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can grate the potatoes and mix the ingredients together. Store the mixture in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the potatoes again before baking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Potato Squares are a delightful combination of crispy potatoes and gooey cheese. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite flavors and toppings. Serve these squares as a side dish at your next gathering or enjoy them as a satisfying snack. The dipping sauce adds an extra layer of creaminess and tanginess. With a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends. So, go ahead and give this Cheesy Potato Squares recipe a try!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen grated potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen grated potatoes, but make sure to thaw them completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before using.

2. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack to create your desired flavor profile.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch instead.

4. How should I store the leftovers?

Store any leftover Cheesy Potato Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

5. Can I freeze the potato squares?

Yes, you can freeze the baked potato squares. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy these irresistible Cheesy Potato Squares!