Cheesy potatoes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. They’re creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. But what can you eat with cheesy potatoes to make it a complete and satisfying meal? In this article, we’ll explore the best options to pair with cheesy potatoes, from classic combinations to more adventurous choices.
Classic Combinations
When it comes to pairing with cheesy potatoes, some classic combinations come to mind. These are tried-and-true options that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Grilled Meats
Grilled meats are a natural pairing with cheesy potatoes. The smoky flavor of the grilled meat complements the rich, cheesy flavor of the potatoes perfectly. Some popular grilled meat options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Grilled chicken: A classic combination that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Grilled steak: For a heartier option, pair cheesy potatoes with a grilled steak.
- Grilled pork chops: Pork chops are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when topped with a tangy BBQ sauce.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are another great option to pair with cheesy potatoes. The roasted flavor of the vegetables complements the cheesy flavor of the potatoes, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Some popular roasted vegetable options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Roasted broccoli: A classic combination that is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts: For a more adventurous option, pair cheesy potatoes with roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Roasted asparagus: Asparagus is a natural pairing with cheesy potatoes, especially when topped with a squeeze of lemon juice.
More Adventurous Options
If you’re looking to mix things up and try something new, there are plenty of more adventurous options to pair with cheesy potatoes. These options may not be as traditional, but they’re sure to add some excitement to your meal.
Seafood
Seafood is a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially for those who love the ocean. The rich flavor of the seafood complements the cheesy flavor of the potatoes perfectly, creating a decadent and satisfying meal. Some popular seafood options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Grilled salmon: Salmon is a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when topped with a tangy dill sauce.
- Shrimp scampi: For a more indulgent option, pair cheesy potatoes with shrimp scampi.
- Crab cakes: Crab cakes are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when served with a side of tangy remoulade sauce.
International Inspirations
If you’re looking to add some international flair to your meal, there are plenty of options to pair with cheesy potatoes. These options may not be as traditional, but they’re sure to add some excitement to your meal.
Mexican-Inspired Options
Mexican-inspired options are a great way to add some excitement to your meal. The bold flavors of Mexican cuisine complement the cheesy flavor of the potatoes perfectly, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Some popular Mexican-inspired options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Tacos: Tacos are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when filled with seasoned ground beef or chicken.
- Quesadillas: Quesadillas are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when filled with melted cheese and served with a side of salsa.
- Chili con carne: For a heartier option, pair cheesy potatoes with chili con carne.
Italian-Inspired Options
Italian-inspired options are another great way to add some excitement to your meal. The rich flavors of Italian cuisine complement the cheesy flavor of the potatoes perfectly, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Some popular Italian-inspired options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Pizza: Pizza is a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when topped with melted mozzarella cheese and served with a side of marinara sauce.
- Pasta: Pasta is a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when tossed with garlic butter and served with a side of parmesan cheese.
- Chicken parmesan: For a more indulgent option, pair cheesy potatoes with chicken parmesan.
Breakfast Options
Cheesy potatoes aren’t just for dinner – they can also be a great option for breakfast. The rich flavor of the potatoes complements the bold flavors of breakfast foods perfectly, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Some popular breakfast options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
Eggs
Eggs are a classic breakfast food that pairs perfectly with cheesy potatoes. The rich flavor of the eggs complements the cheesy flavor of the potatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Some popular egg options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Scrambled eggs: Scrambled eggs are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when served with a side of crispy bacon.
- Fried eggs: Fried eggs are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when served with a side of toasted bread.
- Poached eggs: Poached eggs are a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when served with a side of hollandaise sauce.
Meat Options
Meat is another great option to pair with cheesy potatoes for breakfast. The bold flavors of the meat complement the cheesy flavor of the potatoes perfectly, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Some popular meat options to pair with cheesy potatoes include:
- Bacon: Bacon is a classic breakfast food that pairs perfectly with cheesy potatoes.
- Sausage: Sausage is a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when served with a side of maple syrup.
- Ham: Ham is a great option to pair with cheesy potatoes, especially when served with a side of pineapple rings.
Conclusion
Cheesy potatoes are a delicious and versatile food that can be paired with a wide range of options. From classic combinations like grilled meats and roasted vegetables to more adventurous options like seafood and international inspirations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, cheesy potatoes are a great choice. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal, consider pairing cheesy potatoes with one of the options listed above. Your taste buds will thank you!
What are some popular main courses that go well with cheesy potatoes?
Cheesy potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of main courses. Some popular options include grilled meats like steak, chicken, or pork chops, as well as roasted meats like beef or lamb. You can also pair cheesy potatoes with pan-seared fish or sautéed vegetables for a lighter option. The key is to balance the richness of the cheesy potatoes with a protein that provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
For a comforting and satisfying meal, consider pairing cheesy potatoes with classic comfort food main courses like meatloaf, chicken pot pie, or beef stew. These hearty dishes are sure to warm your belly and your spirits, and the cheesy potatoes will add an extra layer of creaminess and flavor to the meal. Whatever main course you choose, be sure to adjust the amount of cheese and seasonings in the potatoes to complement the flavors of the dish.
Can I serve cheesy potatoes as a side dish for a holiday meal?
Absolutely! Cheesy potatoes are a great side dish for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. They’re easy to make in large quantities, and their rich, comforting flavor is sure to be a hit with your guests. You can also customize the recipe to fit your holiday theme by adding seasonal ingredients like diced ham or chopped herbs.
To make cheesy potatoes ahead of time for a holiday meal, consider preparing the potato mixture and refrigerating or freezing it until the big day. Then, simply transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with cheese and breadcrumbs before baking until golden and bubbly. This will save you time and stress in the kitchen, and ensure that your cheesy potatoes are hot and ready to serve when your guests arrive.
How can I make cheesy potatoes healthier?
While cheesy potatoes are typically a rich and indulgent side dish, there are several ways to make them healthier. One option is to use lower-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar. You can also add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the potato mixture to increase the nutrient density of the dish.
Another way to make cheesy potatoes healthier is to use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of sour cream or milk. These ingredients will add protein and creaminess to the dish without adding extra fat. You can also try baking the potatoes in the oven instead of frying them, which will reduce the calorie count and make the dish healthier overall. By making a few simple tweaks to the recipe, you can enjoy cheesy potatoes without feeling too guilty.
Can I make cheesy potatoes in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make cheesy potatoes in a slow cooker! This is a great option if you want to prepare the dish ahead of time and come home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal. Simply prepare the potato mixture and transfer it to the slow cooker, where it will cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
To make cheesy potatoes in a slow cooker, be sure to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe, as the slow cooker will retain more moisture than the oven. You can also add some diced ham or bacon to the potato mixture for extra flavor. When the potatoes are cooked, top them with cheese and breadcrumbs, and cook for an additional 30 minutes to melt the cheese and crisp the topping.
What are some creative toppings for cheesy potatoes?
While classic cheesy potatoes are delicious on their own, you can also get creative with toppings to add extra flavor and texture. Some ideas include diced cooked bacon, chopped scallions, or grated cheddar cheese. You can also try adding some diced ham or cooked vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
For a spicy kick, consider adding some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the potato mixture. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to add a tangy flavor to the dish. Whatever toppings you choose, be sure to balance them with the richness of the cheesy potatoes to create a well-rounded flavor profile.
Can I make cheesy potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them?
Yes, you can make cheesy potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later use. To refrigerate, prepare the potato mixture and transfer it to a baking dish, where it will keep for up to 2 days. To freeze, prepare the potato mixture and transfer it to a freezer-safe dish or bag, where it will keep for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the frozen potatoes overnight in the refrigerator, or bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Refrigerated potatoes can be baked straight from the fridge, but may require a few extra minutes to heat through. By making cheesy potatoes ahead of time, you can save time and stress in the kitchen, and enjoy a delicious, comforting side dish whenever you want.
What are some variations on the classic cheesy potatoes recipe?
While classic cheesy potatoes are delicious on their own, you can also try some variations to mix things up. One idea is to add some diced cooked sausage, such as chorizo or breakfast sausage, to the potato mixture. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to add a tangy flavor to the dish.
Another variation is to add some diced cooked vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, to the potato mixture. You can also try using different seasonings, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to add a smoky or savory flavor to the dish. Whatever variation you choose, be sure to balance the flavors and textures to create a well-rounded and delicious side dish.