This hearty and delicious recipe features oven-baked potato wedges, layered with a creamy vegetable mixture, rich cheese sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella. Perfect as a side dish or a satisfying main course, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 8 medium potatoes (about 1.2 kg), cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
For the Vegetables:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Egg Mixture:
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 60 g butter
- 50 g all-purpose flour (about 1/3 cup)
- 400 ml milk (1 3/4 cups)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 100 g mozzarella cheese, grated
Directions
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Toss the potato wedges with olive oil, salt, black pepper, red pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Lay the seasoned potatoes on a baking tray and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add the grated carrot and minced garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, then season with salt and black pepper. Add grated mozzarella and mix until melted.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and pour the egg mixture evenly over them.
- Add the sautéed vegetables on top of the potatoes.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle extra grated mozzarella on top.
Step 6: Bake
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.
- Enjoy as a standalone vegetarian main course.
Cooking Tips
- Parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes before baking for an even crispier texture.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor.
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the egg mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
- Carrots and onions provide fiber and antioxidants.
- Mozzarella cheese offers calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A comforting and cheesy dish perfect for any occasion.
- Combines the crunch of roasted potatoes with a creamy, savory sauce.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
- A great way to make a simple ingredient like potatoes shine.
Conclusion
This Baked Potatoes with Creamy Vegetable and Cheese Sauce is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a standout dish for family dinners or gatherings. The cheesy topping and perfectly roasted potatoes ensure it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. Serve it up, and watch it become an instant favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a deliciously sweet flavor and pair well with the cheese sauce. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving. - What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses work well as substitutes. - Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked bacon, ham, or ground beef can be added for a non-vegetarian version. - Is there a gluten-free option?
Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in the cheese sauce. - Can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cheese, almond milk, and flax eggs for a vegan alternative. - How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Line the baking tray with parchment paper or grease it well with olive oil. - Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, thaw and pat dry before sautéing to remove excess moisture. - What herbs can I add for more flavor?
Try rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic touch. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing, but refrigerating works well.