Plantain and Cheese Gratin (Plátanos al Horno con Queso)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with butter.

Peel the plantains and slice them crosswise into 1/4 inch thick rounds.

In a skillet over medium heat (optional, for faster browning), melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the plantain slices in batches and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step is optional but enhances the flavor.

In the greased baking dish, create a layer of plantain slices, slightly overlapping them.

Sprinkle about 1/3 of the mozzarella and 1/3 of the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the plantain layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Repeat layers of plantains, mozzarella cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper. You should have three layers of plantains and cheese.

Top with the remaining mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese.

Dot the top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.