This Baked Potato and Vegetable Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender potatoes with sautéed vegetables, eggs, and creamy kefir or yogurt. Topped with cheese and baked to golden perfection, this casserole is a versatile option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s simple to prepare and packed with nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes (2 lb 4 oz, about 6 medium-sized potatoes)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 sweet pepper, diced
- 1-2 tbsp oil (for cooking)
- 4 eggs
- 200 ml kefir or yogurt (about 1 cup)
- Salt, pepper, chili pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil for drizzling
- 100g grated cheese (about 1 cup, optional)
Directions:
- Boil the potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water for 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1-2 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced sweet pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. Season with salt, pepper, and chili pepper.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and kefir (or yogurt). Add salt, pepper, and chopped parsley to taste.
- Layer the casserole: In an oven-safe dish, layer the boiled potatoes and sautéed vegetables. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake: Drizzle with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 25 minutes.
- Add cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle grated cheese on top, and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for added texture.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or salsa for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the potato mix.
- If using yogurt instead of kefir, make sure it’s plain and unsweetened.
- Substitute kefir or yogurt with sour cream for a tangier taste.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before cutting to allow it to set.
- Add diced ham or bacon for a meatier variation.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes are a great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12.
- Kefir or yogurt adds beneficial probiotics, which support digestive health.
- Sweet peppers and parsley provide vitamins A and C, boosting immune health.
- Olive oil offers heart-healthy fats, promoting cardiovascular well-being.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly (if no meat is added).
- Gluten-free (ensure cheese and yogurt are gluten-free).
- Contains dairy (kefir/yogurt, cheese).
- Contains eggs.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting non-dairy alternatives for kefir and cheese.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
- Freeze: You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s an easy, one-dish meal that requires minimal cleanup.
- A great make-ahead option that can be refrigerated or frozen for later.
- Packed with nutritious ingredients like potatoes, eggs, and vegetables.
- Versatile and customizable to suit various preferences and dietary needs.
- Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
Conclusion:
This Baked Potato and Vegetable Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines simple, wholesome ingredients with rich, creamy flavors. It’s a nutritious and filling dish that is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you serve it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can add zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the kefir with a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese. - Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. - Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to make the dish heartier. - How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the egg mixture is fully set, and the cheese is melted and golden on top.