This Cheesy Potato and Vegetable Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. The layers of golden, crispy potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese create a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and baked to perfection, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 3-4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 150 g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 150 g mozzarella cheese (3.52 oz), shredded
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 6-8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
- Prepare potatoes:
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan and fry the potato slices until golden and tender. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, and sauté the onions until translucent. Add grated carrots and mushrooms, cooking until soft. Season with salt, ground garlic, and nutmeg.
- Layer ingredients:
- In a greased baking dish, layer the fried potatoes at the bottom. Top with the sautéed vegetables, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the vegetables.
- Add eggs and cheese:
- In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the eggs over the vegetables. Arrange halved cherry tomatoes on top, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the dish for 30 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let cool for a few minutes, then serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of fresh greens or a simple green salad for added freshness.
- Pair with a creamy dipping sauce like sour cream or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
- Enjoy as a vegetarian main dish or serve as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or steak.
- Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce before serving.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly sliced potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the potatoes instead of frying them.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more variety.
- To make it a one-pan dish, sauté the vegetables in the same pan used for frying the potatoes to save time and minimize cleanup.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy and essential vitamins like vitamin C.
- Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and provide beneficial nutrients such as B vitamins, fiber, and potassium.
- Eggs are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese offer calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.
Dietary Information:
- Suitable for: Omnivores, vegetarians
- Contains: Dairy, eggs
- Free from: Gluten, nuts, soy
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
- For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- This dish combines comfort food with the goodness of vegetables, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
- The layers of crispy potatoes, savory sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese make for a delicious, hearty meal.
- It’s versatile—add any vegetables or seasonings you like to customize it to your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings.
Conclusion: This Cheesy Potato and Vegetable Bake is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The crispy potatoes and savory sautéed vegetables, combined with the gooey cheese, create a perfect meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish, it’s a satisfying choice for any occasion. Simple, delicious, and comforting—what’s not to love?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily swap out the mushrooms, carrots, or onions for other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers and refrigerate the dish before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. - Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese with dairy-free alternatives. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. - What can I serve this dish with?
This bake pairs well with a simple green salad, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. - Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, using pre-cooked or leftover potatoes will save time. Just layer them as you would the fried potatoes. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. - Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?
Yes, store-bought shredded cheese works just fine for this recipe. - How do I know when it’s done baking?
The dish is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. The potatoes should also be soft and cooked through. - Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to make it more hearty and protein-packed.