This Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole combines crispy golden potatoes, savory sausages, and creamy cheese for a hearty meal. With added vegetables and a cheesy egg topping, this dish is a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The combination of mozzarella and cream cheese makes it rich and flavorful, while the green onions add a fresh touch.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- 200g (7 ounces) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Bulgarian pepper (optional, or use regular bell pepper)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for the vegetable mix)
- 250g (8.8 ounces) sausage, sliced
- 900g (2 pounds) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying the potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for the potatoes)
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt (for the eggs)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 5 tablespoons cream cheese (softened or spreadable)
- 70g (2.5 ounces) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
- Fry the onions and sausage:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, Bulgarian pepper (or bell pepper), and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are browned and the vegetables are soft. Set aside.
- Fry the potatoes:
- In a separate pan, heat another tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced potatoes and fry them until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt once the potatoes are golden and crispy.
- Prepare the egg mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the chopped green onions and mix well.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Grease a baking dish and layer the fried potatoes at the bottom.
- Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly on top of the potatoes.
- Spoon the cream cheese in dollops over the sausage mixture.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional green onions if desired and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or toast for a hearty breakfast.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for added flavor.
- Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
- Add a side of bacon or avocado for a more indulgent meal.
Cooking Tips
- Make sure to fry the potatoes until crispy to add texture to the dish.
- You can use any type of sausage—smoked, spicy, or chicken sausage will work well.
- For extra flavor, add garlic or paprika to the sausage mixture.
- Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a different cheese flavor.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked or leftover potatoes.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: A good source of potassium and vitamin C, providing energy and promoting heart health.
- Eggs: High in protein and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Sausage: Provides protein and a rich, savory flavor.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and protein to the dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes: High in antioxidants and vitamins A and C.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as the sausage and cream cheese used are gluten-free.
- High Protein: The eggs, sausage, and cheese make this a protein-rich dish.
- Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
- Low in Sugar: This recipe is naturally low in sugar, making it a healthy option.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium: 150mg
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is filling and delicious.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and eggs makes this dish creamy and flavorful.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry and fridge staples, making it convenient to prepare.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or types of sausage.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is sure to be a hit with family and guests alike.
Conclusion
This Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of crispy fried potatoes, savory sausage, and creamy cheese creates a rich and flavorful casserole that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy breakfast or a hearty dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you prefer. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. - Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sausage and vegetable mixture. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage or replace it with a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. - What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or toast for a complete meal.