Plantation Potatoes
Plantation Potatoes is a comforting baked dish combining tender hash browns with colorful bell peppers, pimentos, and sharp cheddar cheese. Topped with toasted bread crumbs and butter, it offers a rich, savory flavor perfect for family dinners or potlucks. A hearty, cheesy casserole with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the frozen hash brown potatoes in a buttered 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Add chopped bell pepper and drained, chopped pimentos to the dish.
- Mix lightly to combine the ingredients.
- Combine milk and salt, then pour the mixture over the potato mixture.
- Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 1/2 hours or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Remove the foil from the dish.
- Cover the top with a mixture of bread crumbs and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Drizzle 1/3 cup of melted butter over the top.
- Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of bell peppers or adding some diced onions. If you prefer a vegetarian option, ensure the pimento and cheese are suitable for your diet. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar with a milder cheese like Monterey Jack for a different taste. For a crunchier topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Plantation Potatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a comforting main course for breakfast or brunch. Pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish also goes well with scrambled eggs or a fruit salad for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Potatoes contains roughly 334 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1105mg per serving (48% 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 make Plantation Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking. Cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
What can I substitute for hash brown potatoes?
If you don't have frozen hash brown potatoes, you can use diced fresh potatoes. Parboil them first to ensure they cook evenly in the baking process. Alternatively, shredded zucchini can be a lighter option, though it may change the texture slightly.
Can I freeze Plantation Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great make-ahead option for busy days.
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).