This Baked Potato, Vegetable, and Bacon Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines layers of crispy potatoes, savory bacon, and tender vegetables, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an ideal dish for family dinners, gatherings, or as a hearty side dish for any occasion. With the rich flavors of bacon and the creaminess of cheese, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of the crispy potato base, cooked vegetables, and gooey cheese makes each bite satisfying and indulgent.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 200 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- Vegetable oil (for greasing)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- A bunch of spring onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
- 150 g bacon, chopped
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
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Prepare the Cheese Base
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F).
- Line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Grate 200 g of hard mozzarella cheese.
- Spread half of the grated cheese evenly on the baking tray.
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Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and slice 3 large potatoes into thin slices.
- Place the potato slices over the grated cheese on the baking tray.
- Grease the potatoes with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Vegetables
- Finely chop the onion.
- Grate the carrot.
- Finely chop a bunch of spring onions.
- Thinly slice 1/2 head of cabbage.
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Cook the Vegetables
- In a large pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and grated carrot, and cook until softened.
- Add the spring onions and cabbage to the pan.
- Cover and simmer until the vegetables are soft.
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Add the Bacon
- Chop 150 g of bacon and add it to the pan with the vegetables.
- Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Cook until the bacon is crispy and the vegetables are well mixed.
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Assemble and Bake
- Remove the baking tray with the potatoes from the oven.
- Spread the cooked vegetable and bacon mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle the remaining half of the grated cheese over the top, leaving some cheese for decoration.
- Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (390°F).
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
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Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy this delicious baked dish with potatoes, vegetables, and bacon!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 2mg
The Origins and Popularity of Potato Casseroles
Potato casseroles have been a staple comfort food in many cultures, particularly in North America and Europe. The classic potato casserole, often referred to as “au gratin” in French cuisine, has evolved over the centuries from simple baked potatoes with cheese to more complex dishes with meat, vegetables, and creamy sauces. The popularity of potato casseroles surged in the 1950s in the United States, where they became a favorite for family gatherings and potlucks due to their simplicity, versatility, and ability to feed a crowd. This particular casserole recipe, which combines potatoes with vegetables and bacon, is a modern twist on the classic potato casserole. It incorporates hearty vegetables like cabbage and carrots, which not only add nutrition but also enhance the flavor profile. Bacon adds a rich, savory taste that complements the creamy cheese and tender potatoes. The dish’s ability to be both comforting and filling makes it a popular choice for gatherings, holidays, and even casual weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a one-pan, easy-to-make dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. The crispy, cheesy potatoes at the base provide a satisfying foundation, while the vegetable and bacon mixture adds a hearty, savory element. The melted mozzarella cheese on top makes this casserole irresistibly gooey and rich. It’s a great way to use up vegetables and potatoes in your pantry while indulging in a delicious, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy, from kids to adults.
Health Benefits of Baked Potato, Vegetable, and Bacon Casserole
While this dish is indulgent, it does have some health benefits. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins like vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which are essential for overall health, immune support, and proper digestion. Cabbage, a key ingredient in this casserole, is rich in antioxidants and vitamin K, which helps promote bone health and supports the body’s inflammatory response. The bacon, although higher in fat, provides protein and adds a flavorful punch, while the spring onions and carrots offer additional vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and fiber. The mozzarella cheese provides a dose of calcium for strong bones. While the casserole is a comforting, savory dish, it can also provide important nutrients, especially when served with a side of fresh greens.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a main dish, but it can also be served as a side dish with other meals. Pair it with a simple green salad to add some freshness and balance the richness of the casserole. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats such as chicken or steak for a more substantial meal. For an extra indulgent treat, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Tips
- Slice the potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- If you don’t have hard mozzarella, you can substitute it with cheddar cheese or any cheese that melts well.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a layer of sour cream or cream cheese between the potatoes and vegetables.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of paprika or dried herbs on top of the cheese before baking.
- To make the casserole ahead of time, assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Bake it just before serving.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a plant-based option.
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the vegetable and bacon mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Potato Casserole: Use a combination of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or parmesan to add a more complex flavor to the dish.
- Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that the breadcrumbs or other thickening agents you use are gluten-free to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
- Loaded Casserole: Add more toppings like crumbled bacon, chives, or sour cream to make the casserole even more indulgent.
Conclusion
This Baked Potato, Vegetable, and Bacon Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy at home. With its crispy potatoes, savory vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and endlessly customizable. So, gather your ingredients and bake up this delicious casserole for your next family dinner or gathering!
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it just before serving. -
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (355°F) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. -
Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for the cabbage and carrots. -
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of cheese for a cheesier casserole. Just be sure to adjust the baking time to prevent the cheese from burning. -
How do I make the casserole creamier?
You can add a layer of sour cream or heavy cream to make the casserole creamier.