Idaho Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy Idaho potatoes baked to perfection with green peppers, pimentos, and herbs, ideal for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes, then cool and dice them in a large bowl.
- Add diced American cheese, diced pimento, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, bread cubes, salt, parsley flakes, and garlic salt. Mix lightly but thoroughly.
- Turn the mixture into a shallow baking dish.
- Pour melted butter and milk over the potato mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using freshly diced vegetables and quality American cheese. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the milk slightly. Adding some cooked bacon or sausage can enhance the dish further. For a vegetarian twist, omit any meat and browse more vegetarian recipes for complementary sides.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a hearty dinner. Top with fresh herbs or additional cheese just before serving for added flavor. It can also work as a comforting side to recipes like Smoothest Divinity.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Idaho Potatoes contains roughly 649 calories, with 12g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1485mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While Idaho potatoes are great for this recipe, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if you choose smaller or larger potatoes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the melted butter and milk right before baking. This can save you time if you're serving it for a gathering or family dinner.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Certainly! You can reduce the butter and use low-fat milk to lighten the dish. Adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can also boost the nutritional value while keeping the flavor intact. Check out other American recipes for healthier alternatives.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).