This Cheesy Potato and Egg Bake is a simple yet delicious dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy eggs, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a comforting and hearty meal. Flavored with paprika, parsley, and olive oil, this dish is not only tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying dish.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 medium potatoes
- 3 large eggs
- 5 slices mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Butter (for greasing)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick, for even cooking.
- Place the potato slices in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the potatoes are slightly tender but still hold their shape. Drain the water and set the potatoes aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- In the greased baking dish, arrange half of the boiled potato slices in an even layer.
- Season the layer of potatoes with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for a little extra flavor.
- Add the Mozzarella Cheese:
- Layer the mozzarella cheese slices evenly over the potatoes. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, cheesy middle layer.
- Reserve one or two slices of mozzarella for the top layer if you prefer an extra cheesy crust.
- Prepare the Eggs:
- In a small bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of paprika.
- Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the mozzarella layer.
- Add the Remaining Potatoes:
- Place the remaining potato slices on top of the eggs and mozzarella. Arrange them neatly to cover the entire surface of the dish.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top layer of potatoes, and season again with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Bake the Dish:
- Place the prepared dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy on top, and the eggs are set in the middle.
- For extra crispiness, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Add Final Cheese Topping (Optional):
- If you saved some mozzarella slices, place them on top of the baked dish in the last 5 minutes of baking. Let the cheese melt and turn slightly golden for a cheesy crust.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once the bake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Slice and serve the cheesy potato and egg bake while it’s still warm.
Cooking Tips:
- Customize the Dish: Feel free to add additional ingredients to make the dish more filling, such as diced ham, cooked bacon, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella provides a mild, creamy taste, you can switch it up with cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a stronger flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy spicier dishes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika for an extra kick.
- Perfect Boiled Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes during boiling. You want them to be firm enough to hold their shape when baked, but soft enough to provide a creamy texture inside the bake.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
FAQs:
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the layers of the bake in advance, cover the dish, and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven to bake.
- What can I serve with this Cheesy Potato and Egg Bake?
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a slice of toasted bread for a complete meal.
- How can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
- Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a slight sweetness to the dish and a boost of nutrients like vitamin A and fiber.
- Is this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that your ingredients like butter and cheese are free from any gluten additives.
Conclusion: Cheesy Potato and Egg Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The combination of crispy golden potatoes, creamy eggs, and gooey mozzarella cheese is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you make it for a lazy weekend brunch or a quick dinner, this recipe is versatile and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or spices. Serve it hot and enjoy the rich flavors of this hearty meal with your family or friends.