This Cheesy Baked Potato and Vegetable Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy cheese topping. Perfect for a family dinner or a hearty side dish, this recipe brings together a great balance of flavors and textures. The savory, golden crust combined with the creamy interior makes each bite irresistible. Easy to prepare, it’s a perfect recipe to try when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Vegetables:
- 2 red peppers, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Batter and Potato Mixture:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 7 ounces (200 grams) cheese, grated (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Directions
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finely chop the 2 red peppers and add them to the skillet.
- Simmer the vegetables for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, break the 3 eggs and whisk them until frothy.
- Add 1 cup of water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir well.
- Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of flour, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (380°F).
- Drain the water from the boiled potatoes and add them to the flour mixture along with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Line a baking sheet with baking paper and brush it with a little olive oil.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top begins to crisp up.
4. Finish and Serve:
- Finely chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the baked potatoes after removing them from the oven.
- Grate 7 ounces (200 grams) of cheese and spread it evenly over the potatoes.
- Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Serve this casserole as a vegetarian main dish, paired with a side of green salad for a lighter meal.
- With Grilled Meats: This dish makes a perfect side for grilled chicken, steak, or roast lamb.
- With a Dollop of Sour Cream: Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and tang.
- Pair with Soup: Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or vegetable broth for a comforting meal.
Cooking Tips
- Make Sure the Potatoes Are Well-Mashed: After boiling, make sure to mash the potatoes well to avoid any lumps in the mixture.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, crisp vegetables like bell peppers give the dish an extra burst of flavor, so don’t substitute with canned vegetables for the best result.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan for a flavor-packed cheesy topping.
- Check for Doneness: The potatoes should be tender and golden on top after baking. Test by inserting a knife or fork—if it goes in easily, the dish is ready!
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, which support immune health, digestion, and heart health.
- Cheese: The cheese adds a healthy dose of calcium and protein, important for maintaining strong bones and supporting muscle function.
- Peppers and Parsley: The bell peppers are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which are vital for skin health and immune function, while parsley is a great source of vitamins K and C.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat that supports heart health and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
Storage
- Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the casserole in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture.
- Freezer: You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish brings together familiar, comforting ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and peppers into a rich and satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep and only a few simple steps, this recipe is easy to whip up even on busy days.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or light main, this recipe fits any occasion.
- Deliciously Cheesy: The melted cheese on top is the perfect finishing touch, making every bite creamy and flavorful.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use mozzarella, parmesan, or cheddar cheese for a different flavor. Mixing cheeses also adds a nice depth of flavor.
2. Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, you can add cooked ground beef or chicken to the potato mixture for a heartier dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
4. Can I make this dish without cheese?
Yes, you can make it dairy-free by omitting the cheese and using dairy-free butter and plant-based milk for the mashed potatoes.
5. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes would add a slightly different flavor but would still work wonderfully in this recipe, making it even more nutritious.
This Cheesy Baked Potato and Vegetable Casserole is a delicious, comforting, and customizable dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side, or main course, it’s perfect for any occasion and loved by all!