This cheesy baked potato and vegetable casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with wholesome ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and leeks, it’s topped with a generous layer of tomatoes, cheese, and parsley for a comforting meal. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to satisfy your family or guests. The addition of kefir or yogurt gives the dish a tangy twist, while the golden, crispy topping ensures every bite is delicious.
Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4-5, peeled and grated
- Carrot: 1, grated
- Leek or Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Eggs: 2
- Kefir or Plain Yogurt: 1 glass (approx. 200 ml)
- Wheat Flour: 200 g (7 oz)
- Tomatoes: 3, sliced
- Cheese: 100-150 g (as desired), grated
- Fresh Parsley: A handful, chopped
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: For greasing and drizzling
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and grate the potatoes and carrot.
- Finely chop the leek or onion.
3. Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, carrot, leek or onion, eggs, kefir or yogurt, and flour.
- Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly across the dish.
5. Add the Toppings:
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the potato mixture.
- Grate cheese over the tomatoes, ensuring an even layer.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside roasted or grilled chicken for a hearty dinner.
- Top with sour cream or a dollop of plain yogurt for added richness.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Enjoy as a standalone vegetarian main course.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, add garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture.
- Use a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella and cheddar, for a richer taste.
- Squeeze excess moisture from the grated potatoes for a firmer texture.
- Substitute kefir with buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor.
- Ensure the casserole is cooked through by testing the center with a fork.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium and a good source of energy.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene and antioxidants.
- Kefir/Yogurt: Provides probiotics and calcium.
- Cheese: Adds protein and calcium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat products.
- Customizable: Gluten-free flour can replace wheat flour for a GF version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through or microwave individual portions.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: A warm, filling meal perfect for family dinners.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with additional spices or toppings.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A wholesome option for meatless meals.
- Cheesy Goodness: Melty cheese on top makes it irresistible!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Potato and Vegetable Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining wholesome ingredients with rich, cheesy flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit your tastes and is sure to please vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, they work well and add a hint of sweetness.
- What type of cheese is best? Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of both work beautifully.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions.
- Is kefir necessary? You can substitute with buttermilk, plain yogurt, or even milk.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate; bake when ready.
- How do I prevent sogginess? Drain excess liquid from grated potatoes before mixing.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Use almond or gluten-free flour as a substitute.
- What herbs pair well with this dish? Thyme, parsley, and chives complement the flavors perfectly.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, portion and freeze for up to 1 month.
- How do I add a protein boost? Mix in cooked bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken.