Baked Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella

This Baked Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender layers of potatoes, carrots, onions, and mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect comfort meal that balances healthy vegetables with a creamy, cheesy finish. The sour cream and yogurt dressing adds a tangy contrast, making this dish a satisfying and wholesome choice for any meal. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • Vegetables:
    • 3 potatoes (about 600 g)
    • 4 carrots (about 400 g)
    • 1 onion (100 g)
    • 2 cloves of garlic
  • Seasoning:
    • 1 tsp salt
    • Black pepper, to taste
    • Parsley, chopped
    • Dill, chopped
    • Olive oil (for greasing and drizzling)
  • Cheese:
    • 1 mozzarella ball (125 g)
  • Eggs:
    • 3 large eggs
  • For the Dressing:
    • 2 tbsp sour cream (30%)
    • 2 tbsp yogurt
    • 1 tbsp sweet mustard
    • Salt, to taste
    • Black pepper, to taste
    • Parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 200°C (392°F). Grease a 21 cm x 27 cm baking pan with olive oil.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic. Layer them in the baking pan, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, parsley, and dill.
  3. Add Cheese & Eggs: Slice the mozzarella and place evenly on the top layer. Whisk the eggs with salt and pepper, then pour over the vegetables and cheese. Drizzle with olive oil.
  4. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, until golden brown.
  5. Make Dressing: In a bowl, mix sour cream, yogurt, sweet mustard, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  6. Serve: Drizzle dressing over the casserole or serve on the side.

Bullet Points:

  • Serving Suggestions:
    • Pair with a simple green salad.
    • Add grilled chicken or fish for extra protein.
    • Serve with crusty bread.
    • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
  • Cooking Tips:
    • Slice vegetables evenly for uniform cooking.
    • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
    • For extra creaminess, add a bit of cream to the egg mixture.
  • Nutritional Benefits:
    • Rich in fiber from the vegetables.
    • Protein from the eggs and mozzarella.
    • High in vitamins A and C from carrots and parsley.
  • Dietary Information:
    • Vegetarian-friendly.
    • Can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free mustard.
  • Nutritional Facts (per serving):
    • Calories: 320 kcal
    • Protein: 12g
    • Fat: 20g
    • Carbohydrates: 20g
    • Fiber: 4g
  • Storage:
    • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or until warm.
  • Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
    • It’s a comforting, cheesy dish with layers of tender vegetables.
    • The tangy yogurt-mustard dressing adds a zesty kick.
    • Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and healthy nutrients.
    • Perfect for a cozy family meal or potluck.

Conclusion:

This Baked Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella is a delightful, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The layers of seasoned vegetables combined with melted mozzarella and the tangy yogurt dressing create a satisfying balance of creamy and fresh. It’s a perfect way to enjoy healthy ingredients while indulging in some cheesy goodness. Serve this casserole hot and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

  1. Can I use different vegetables?
    Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
  2. Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
    Yes, cheddar or gouda work well as substitutes.
  3. How can I make this dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free cheese and substitute the yogurt and sour cream with plant-based versions.
  4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the casserole, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
  5. Can I freeze the casserole?
    Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before baking. Thaw before baking.
  6. What can I use instead of eggs?
    You can use a flaxseed or chia egg substitute for a vegan option.
  7. How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
    The top will be golden brown, and the vegetables should be tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. What should I serve with this dish?
    Serve with a fresh green salad, bread, or a protein like grilled chicken.
  9. How long does this casserole stay fresh?
    It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3 days.
  10. Can I add meat to this recipe?
    Yes, cooked chicken or bacon can be added to the vegetable layers for extra flavor.

Let me know if you’d like to tweak any part of the recipe!