This hearty mashed potato casserole with a veggie filling is a comforting and delicious dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with a flavorful mix of sautéed vegetables and cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or special gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser with layers of texture and flavor. The dish is topped with cheese and fresh dill for a burst of flavor.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
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Yield: 4-6 servings
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Cuisine: Comfort Food, Vegetarian
Full List of Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Base:
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4 medium fresh potatoes, peeled and boiled
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Salt to taste
For the Veggie Filling:
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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100g mushrooms, chopped
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1 carrot, grated
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1 fresh red bell pepper, chopped
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1 tomato, chopped
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3 tablespoons cornstarch
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1 egg
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100g cheese (grated, your choice)
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5-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
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Fresh dill for garnish
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Salt to taste
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Sweet paprika powder to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Base:
Peel and boil the fresh potatoes until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Once soft, drain the potatoes and mash them with a little salt until smooth and creamy. This will form the base layer of your casserole.
2. Prepare the Veggie Filling:
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the grated carrot and fresh red bell pepper and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the tomato and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to release their juices and soften.
3. Add the Seasonings:
Season the veggie mixture with salt and sweet paprika powder to taste. Stir in 3 tablespoons of cornstarch and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
4. Mix in the Egg and Cheese:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg and stir it into the vegetable mixture. Add 100g of grated cheese and mix well to combine. This will help the filling set together.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). In a greased baking dish, layer the mashed potatoes as the base. Spread the vegetable filling evenly over the mashed potatoes. Top with halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with a little extra cheese if desired.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh dill for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 250 kcal
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Fat: 15g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 6g
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Protein: 8g
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Sodium: 300mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This mashed potato casserole is a variation of traditional comfort food that is common in many households, particularly in Eastern European and American cuisines. Mashed potatoes are a staple, often used as a base for a variety of vegetable and meat fillings. This particular version combines a colorful mix of vegetables with cheese, creating a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal steps, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Hearty and Comforting: The mashed potatoes provide a creamy, comforting base, while the veggie filling adds a satisfying texture and flavor.
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Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or add meat for a more substantial meal.
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Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone, even picky eaters, as it combines familiar ingredients in a delicious, easy-to-eat format.
Health Benefits
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Potatoes: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, potatoes provide essential nutrients that support heart health and digestion.
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Vegetables: The mix of carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms adds vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, promoting overall health and immune function.
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Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, cheese supports bone health and muscle function.
Serving Suggestions
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As a Main Dish: Serve the casserole as a standalone meal or with a side of fresh salad for added crunch and nutrition.
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As a Side Dish: This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish for a more substantial dinner.
Cooking Tips
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Customize the Veggies: You can use any vegetables you like. Try adding spinach, peas, or zucchini for additional flavors and textures.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.
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Creamier Mash: For an extra creamy potato base, add a little milk or cream while mashing the potatoes.
Variations to Try
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Meat Lover’s Casserole: Add ground beef, chicken, or sausage to the veggie filling for a heartier meal.
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Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter for a vegan version of this casserole.
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Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Mashed Potato Casserole with Veggie Filling is the perfect comfort food that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The creamy mashed potatoes combine perfectly with the savory, cheesy veggie filling, creating a dish that is as delicious as it is filling. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side, it’s a dish that everyone will love and enjoy!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use frozen vegetables for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the filling mixture.
2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a slightly different flavor and texture but will work well in this casserole.
3. Can I add meat to this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground meat like beef, chicken, or turkey would be a great addition to the filling.
4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to increase the baking time if the casserole is cold.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap and bake it from frozen when ready to serve.
7. Can I make this casserole spicy?
Yes, add some chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the veggie filling for a spicy kick.
8. Can I use different cheeses?
Feel free to use any cheese you like. Cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss cheese will also work great.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.
10. Can I make this casserole vegan?
Yes, substitute the cheese with dairy-free options and use plant-based butter to make it vegan-friendly.