Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bacon Casserole

This hearty and flavorful casserole combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and nutritious broccoli in a creamy egg mixture, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect dish for a comforting family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • Potatoes: 500g (about 3 medium-sized), peeled and diced
  • Onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Bacon: 200g, cut into small pieces
  • Broccoli: 600g (about 2 heads), cut into florets
  • Eggs: 5 large
  • Sour Cream: 3 tablespoons
  • Hard Mozzarella Cheese: 100g, grated
  • Vegetable Oil: For cooking
  • Salt: To taste

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients:

  • Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  • Chop the onion finely and cut the bacon into small pieces.
  • Cut the broccoli into small florets and grate the mozzarella cheese.

2. Cook Potatoes and Broccoli:

  • Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Steam or boil the broccoli florets in salted water until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook Bacon and Onion:

  • Heat a little vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  • Cook the bacon until crispy.
  • Add the chopped onion to the bacon and sauté until the onion is translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.

4. Mix & Assemble:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
  • Add the cooked potatoes, broccoli, bacon, and onions to the egg mixture. Mix gently to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the egg mixture is set.

6. Serve:

  • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a standalone dish or pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or dill for added flavor and presentation.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the potatoes are cooked until tender but not overly soft to maintain their texture in the casserole.
  • Avoid overcooking the broccoli during steaming or boiling to keep it vibrant and slightly firm.
  • Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Broccoli: High in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Potatoes: A good source of potassium, vitamin C, and energy-boosting carbohydrates.
  • Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
  • Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, such as sour cream, are gluten-free.
  • Low-Carb: Reduce or replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
  • Not Suitable for Vegetarians: Replace bacon with vegetarian bacon or mushrooms for a meat-free version.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: ~290 kcal
  • Protein: ~15g
  • Carbohydrates: ~20g
  • Fat: ~18g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  • This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Packed with comforting flavors and a creamy texture.
  • Easy to prepare and uses common pantry ingredients.
  • Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.

Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bacon Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone. Its creamy, cheesy top layer and the wholesome mix of vegetables and bacon make it a must-try for any occasion!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain it before adding to the casserole.
  2. Can I replace bacon with another protein?
    Yes, diced ham, cooked sausage, or even shredded chicken are great substitutes.
  3. How do I make this vegetarian?
    Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative.
  4. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions.
  5. What cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
    Cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are good alternatives.
  6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
  7. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Use plant-based cheese, yogurt, and sour cream for a dairy-free version.
  8. How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
    Drain the cooked broccoli and potatoes thoroughly before mixing.
  9. What can I serve with this casserole?
    Pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
  10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed.