Endive Casserole with Maroilles Cheese: A Comforting Dish with Northern Flavors

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (thermostat 6).
2. Finely slice the onion and place it in a salad bowl to release its flavors, which will form the aromatic base of your dish.
3. Peel the potatoes and cut them into slices about 5 mm thick. This size ensures even cooking and a nice soft center.
4. Prepare the endives by removing the first leaves if they are damaged. Then cut them into pieces about 2 cm wide to keep their texture during cooking.
5. Cut the smoked bacon into lardons , if you haven’t already done so, so that each bite brings a subtle smoky flavor.

Step 2: Assembling the Cassolettes

1. In the salad bowl, gently mix the onions, potatoes, endives and bacon so that each ingredient is infused with the aromas.
2. Divide the mixture into individual casserole dishes, making sure to balance the potatoes, endives and bacon in each container.
3. Add the white wine or beer : pour about 3 tablespoons into each casserole dish to deglaze and enhance the flavors.
4. If you like your dishes creamier, add 4 tablespoons of crème fraîche to each casserole.

Step 3: Adding the Maroilles and Cooking

1. Cut the Maroilles into thin slices and place them generously on top of each casserole. This cheese will melt and create a golden, melting crust.
2. Place the casseroles in a casserole dish, add 4 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the casserole dish to maintain moisture and prevent the dish from drying out during cooking.
3. Cover the casserole dish and bake for 1 hour at 180°C. The Maroilles will melt deliciously and the vegetables will be tender and fragrant.

Tips and Variations

• Cream-free variation : For a lighter version, omit the crème fraîche and slightly increase the quantity of wine or beer.
• Alternative cheese : If Maroilles is too strong for some, replace it with Reblochon or Munster for a milder flavor.
• Accompaniment : serve this casserole with a green salad to add a touch of freshness to this comforting dish.

Conclusion

This endive casserole with maroilles cheese is a real invitation to a taste journey in the terroir of the North! Easy to prepare, it will bring a touch of conviviality and authenticity to your table. Try it during your next evenings to surprise and delight your guests with this recipe rich in flavors!