Loaded Potato & Veggie Casserole with Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Bliss

This indulgent, hearty casserole layers crispy baked potatoes, flavorful bacon, sausage, vegetables, and creamy eggs—all finished with melted mozzarella and a tangy yogurt sauce. It’s a comforting all‑in‑one dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a satisfying dinner. With protein, vegetables, and wholesome starch, it’s a homey delight that brings together incredible flavor and goodness in every bite.

Cooking Time

  • Prep: 20 minutes

  • Bake potatoes: 30–40 minutes

  • Cook & assemble: 15 minutes

  • Final cook: 10–15 minutes

  • Total: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

Potato Base

  • 3–4 medium potatoes, cleaned and halved

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried mixed herbs (e.g., oregano, thyme)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Egg Mixture

  • 2 eggs

  • Pinches of salt (approx. 2)

  • 80 ml milk

  • 1 tbsp flour

  • A handful of fresh dill, chopped

Sautéed Veg & Proteins

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 5 slices of bacon, diced

  • ½ bell pepper, diced

  • 3 spring onions, sliced

  • 1–2 hunter (smoked) sausages, sliced

  • 2 small tomatoes, diced

  • Vegetable oil or 1 tbsp butter (for sauté)

Topping

  • 60 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp plain yogurt or sour cream

  • 1 pickled cucumber, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise

Step‑by‑Step Cooking Directions

1. Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 180 °C (356 °F). Toss halved potatoes in oil, paprika, herbs, salt, and pepper. Place in an oiled casserole or baking dish and roast for ~30–40 minutes until golden brown and tender.

2. Whisk the Egg Mixture
While potatoes bake, whisk together eggs, salt, milk, flour, and dill in a bowl. Set aside for layering.

3. Sauté the Veggies and Bacon
In a skillet over medium-low heat, add a little oil or butter. Fry the onion until soft (~3 minutes), then add bacon and sauté another 3–5 minutes. Stir in diced bell pepper, spring onions, and cook until tender.

4. Add Sausage & Tomatoes
Stir in sliced hunter sausages and tomatoes, cooking just long enough to warm through (~2 minutes). Season lightly with salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Casserole
Once potatoes are done, remove from oven. Remove excess oil from the baking dish, if needed.

  • Layer baked potatoes at the bottom.

  • Pour the egg-dill mixture over the potatoes.

  • Evenly sprinkle sautéed veg, bacon, sausage, and tomato topping over the eggs.

  • Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and chopped parsley.

6. Final Cook
Cover or use a lid and cook over low heat for 10–15 minutes on stovetop until eggs set and cheese melts. Alternatively, broil in the oven until bubbly and golden.

7. Prepare the Sauce
While the top cooks, mix yogurt (or sour cream), pickled cucumber, and mayonnaise. Chill until ready to serve.

8. Serve & Enjoy
Cut into wedges and serve with creamy sauce on the side. Optional extra parsley garnish adds freshness.

Nutritional Information

(per serving, 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~420 kcal

  • Protein: 22 g

  • Carbohydrates: 30 g

  • Fat: 24 g

  • Fiber: 4 g
    Rich in vitamins from veggies, protein from eggs, meat, and dairy, plus fiber and essential minerals from potatoes.

Origins and Popularity

This casserole draws from European comfort-food traditions—rooted in farmhouse cooking where potatoes, bacon, cheese, and seasonal vegetables combine into satisfying trays. Similar layered dishes exist in German “Kartoffelauflauf” or British casserole styles. Its popularity lies in using basic pantry staples to create a filling, multi-textured meal everyone will love.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

  • One-pan convenience—minimal cleanup after effort

  • Balanced flavors: savory, creamy, and tangy

  • Great for brunch gatherings or cozy family dinners

  • Easily adaptable for seasonal veggies

  • Makes irresistibly gooey cheese-layered servings

Health Benefits

  • Potatoes offer fiber, magnesium, potassium, and bone-strengthening minerals

  • Eggs provide essential omega-3s, B vitamins, and selenium

  • Onions, peppers, and parsley add antioxidants and vitamins A, C, K

  • Yogurt sauce delivers probiotic advantages

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crisp green salad or fresh cucumber-tomato salad

  • Enjoy with crusty bread or garlic toast

  • Serve alongside a light soup—seasonal tomato or vegetable helps balance richness

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Soggy potatoes: Ensure thorough baking with enough oil

  • Raw eggs: Cook slowly on low heat or finish under a broiler until set

  • Dry bacon/veggies: Stir often and don’t overcook

  • Splattered dish: Use a lid or cover to prevent mess

Pairing Recommendations

  • Drink: Dry white wine (Pinot Grigio), light lager, or sparkling water

  • Side: Pickled cucumbers or refreshing coleslaw

  • Condiment: Add a dollop of sour cream if extra tang is wanted

Cooking Tips

  • For crispier potato edges, bake directly on the tray

  • Pre-slice all toppings before assembly for smooth workflow

  • Make the yogurt sauce ahead—flavors develop better

  • Use leftover baked potatoes—second-day prep cuts time

Similar Recipes to Try

  • Loaded Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

  • Cheesy Potato & Ham Bake

  • Mediterranean Potato, Egg & Veggie Frittata

  • German Bacon & Potato Gratin

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian: Omit meat, double onions and peppers

  • Spicy: Add chili flakes or use spicy sausage

  • Herb-Rich: Add thyme, rosemary, or marjoram

  • Lightened: Use low-fat cheese, remove bacon, replace with reduced-fat yogurt

Ingredient Spotlight

Hunter sausage brings rich, smoky flavor to this dish, anchoring the layered egg and potatoes. Its hearty character melds beautifully with bacon and veggies, creating a satisfying protein layer.

Conclusion

This hearty casserole combines crispy potatoes, lush egg filling, smoky meats, tangy cheese, and fresh veggies into one comforting skillet. Ideal for family meals, weekend brunches, or meal-prepped dinners, it’s home cooking at its finest—feel-good food that warms the belly and the heart.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can this be made ahead?
Yes—assemble and refrigerate up to 8 hours ahead. Just add 5–10 extra minutes when reheating.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes—cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze. Reheat in an oven at 170 °C (~15–20 minutes).

3. What can replace hunter sausage?
Try smoked andouille, kielbasa, or cut bacon pieces.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely—swap meat for sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies.

5. Is it suitable for kids?
Yes—mild, comforting flavors tend to be kid-friendly.

6. How to make it gluten-free?
Ensure tomato sauce, sausage, and seasonings are gluten-free. No further swaps needed.

7. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes—use Greek yogurt for tang and protein.

8. How do I crisp the top?
Place under a broiler for 2–3 minutes until bubbling and golden.

9. Can I add more cheese?
Sure—add ¼ cup of chopped Parmesan or Gruyère for extra richness.

10. Can I add more veggies?
Yes—stir in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots when sautéing the bacon.

Enjoy cooking this comforting, flavorful casserole! Let me know how it turns out, and happy mealtime!