This simple and delicious potato and cheese flatbread recipe is incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick snack or a light meal, it combines soft, mashed potatoes with melted cheese inside a golden, crispy dough. It’s a great way to use basic pantry ingredients and make something flavorful.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine This dish is inspired by simple, rustic bread recipes that highlight the comfort of potatoes and cheese, commonly found in many home-cooked meals.
Full List of Ingredients
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For the Dough:
- 150 ml water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 250 g bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 15 g olive oil
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For the Filling:
- 4 small potatoes (about 320 g)
- 600 ml water (for boiling the potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper powder
- 15 g green onion or parsley, chopped
- 30-50 g cheese, shredded (cheddar or mozzarella works well)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine 150 ml water, 1 teaspoon active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon white sugar. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 250 g bread flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the yeast mixture and 15 g olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough by hand until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1.5 hours.
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Prepare the Potato Filling:
- While the dough is rising, peel and chop the 4 small potatoes into small cubes.
- Boil the potatoes in 600 ml water for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain them well.
- Mash the boiled potatoes in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper powder. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped green onions or parsley and the shredded cheese. Mix everything well and set aside.
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Assemble the Flatbread:
- After the dough has risen, deflate it and sprinkle some flour onto your work surface. Roll the dough out into a circle about 20 cm in diameter.
- Spoon the mashed potato and cheese filling into the center of the dough. Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, making sure the filling is fully enclosed. Press the dough gently to seal the edges.
- Roll the dough out again into a circle with a diameter of 22-25 cm, ensuring the filling is evenly spread inside.
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Cook the Flatbread:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan or griddle over low heat and brush it lightly with some olive oil.
- Place the prepared flatbread onto the pan and cook for about 3 minutes on one side, until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip the flatbread and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side until it is crispy and golden.
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Serve:
- Once the flatbread is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe This dish is inspired by flatbreads that are commonly found in many cultures around the world. Potatoes, when combined with cheese and dough, create a hearty, satisfying meal that can be served in various ways, from a casual snack to a full meal. The use of simple ingredients like potatoes, flour, and cheese makes it both accessible and delicious.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses basic pantry staples that are easy to find and inexpensive.
- Comforting: The combination of mashed potatoes and melted cheese creates a warm and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
Health Benefits
- Potatoes for Energy: Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing a steady source of energy.
- Rich in Fiber: This dish contains a good amount of dietary fiber, especially from the potatoes and the addition of green onions or parsley.
- Cheese for Protein: The cheese adds a good amount of protein and calcium, essential for maintaining healthy muscles and bones.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh salad or pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.
- As a Snack: Perfect for an afternoon snack or appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
- With a Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of yogurt or a simple garlic dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use Leftover Potatoes: This is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes from another meal.
- Adjust Filling to Taste: You can experiment with the filling by adding other ingredients like bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or different cheeses to enhance the flavor.
- Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure to cook the flatbread over low heat so that it cooks evenly without burning on the outside.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to give the dough an extra flavor boost.
- Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace the egg with a flax egg for a vegan-friendly option.
Conclusion This Cheesy Potato Flatbread is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that combines the creaminess of mashed potatoes with the richness of cheese and the crispy texture of fried dough. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using it.
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Can I use other vegetables in the filling? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots to the potato filling for extra flavor.
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Can I bake this flatbread instead of frying it? Yes, you can bake the flatbread at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
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Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour in the dough.
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How do I store leftovers? Store leftover flatbread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the pan or oven before serving.
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Can I freeze this flatbread? Yes, you can freeze the cooked flatbread for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
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Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, gouda, or any other cheese of your choice.
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How do I prevent the flatbread from getting soggy? Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too watery before adding them to the dough, and cook the flatbread on low heat for an even result.
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Can I make this dish spicier? Yes, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the potato mixture or the dough for extra heat.
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Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and use a plant-based milk and oil in the dough to make this recipe vegan-friendly.