This hearty and comforting Potato and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese is a perfect combination of tender potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy yogurt-based batter. The richness of the cheese on top adds a delicious layer of flavor and a melty, golden finish. This dish is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your meals, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. The addition of Italian herbs, black pepper, and parsley creates a savory, flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the crisp, colorful topping of bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a family-friendly meal, this casserole will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 tomatoes
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup liquid yogurt (125 ml / 4.3 fl. oz.)
- 4 tablespoons flour (100 g / 3.5 oz.)
- 150 grams cheese (5.3 oz), grated
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Italian herbs, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Sunflower oil, for frying
Directions
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Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and Slice: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds or small cubes.
- Soak: Soak the sliced potatoes in water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Onion:
- Chop and Fry: Chop the onion and heat sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook the Onion: Fry the onion in the oil until it becomes transparent and soft, about 4-5 minutes.
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Add the Carrot:
- Grate and Add: Grate the carrot and add it to the pan with the onions.
- Cook: Fry lightly for 3-4 minutes until the carrot is slightly softened but still retains some crunch.
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Prepare the Batter:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the 2 eggs. Add the liquid yogurt, flour, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until the batter is smooth and well combined.
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Combine Potatoes and Batter:
- Coat the Potatoes: Add the drained potatoes to the batter mixture, and stir until the potatoes are well coated with the yogurt and flour mixture.
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Bake the Base:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with a little sunflower oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the potato and batter mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the base is set.
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Prepare the Peppers and Tomatoes:
- Slice the Vegetables: While the base is baking, slice the bell pepper and tomatoes into thin rings or slices. Set aside.
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Top the Casserole:
- Add Toppings: After the casserole has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven. Top the casserole with the sliced bell peppers, tomatoes, and grated cheese. Spread the cheese evenly over the top.
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Final Bake:
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish: Once baked, sprinkle the casserole with freshly chopped parsley for color and extra flavor.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- This casserole is hearty enough to be served on its own as a complete meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- For an extra touch, serve alongside a dollop of sour cream or a light yogurt sauce to complement the flavors.
- This dish is also perfect for a side dish during a family dinner, especially alongside grilled meats, chicken, or fish.
Cooking Tips
- Moisture Control: Be sure to soak the potatoes before baking to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a better texture.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Variety: While this recipe calls for grated cheese, you can use a variety of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta for a unique twist.
- Batch Cooking: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the oven to restore its texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Vegetables: The carrot, bell pepper, and tomatoes provide essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber that support overall health.
- Protein Boost: Eggs and yogurt contribute a significant amount of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium-Rich: Cheese provides calcium, an essential mineral for bone health.
- Low in Carbs: This dish is relatively low in carbs compared to traditional potato-based casseroles, especially when paired with a side salad.
The Origins and Popularity of Potato Casserole
Potato casserole is a beloved dish in many cultures, particularly in Europe and North America. The dish is a versatile and comforting comfort food, often seen as a go-to meal for family gatherings, holidays, or potlucks. Originating from the concept of using potatoes as a staple ingredient, many early casserole recipes were created as a way to stretch ingredients and feed large families. Potato casseroles often combine hearty potatoes with cheese, vegetables, and other flavorful ingredients, making them a go-to meal for satisfying appetites.
In countries like the United States, potato casserole, or “scalloped potatoes,” became a staple side dish, especially in southern cuisine. Over time, this simple and humble dish evolved to include a variety of variations, such as adding meat, vegetables, or different types of cheeses to create even more flavor. Today, potato casseroles remain a popular option for family dinners, and they have become a versatile dish that can be customized with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy.
The dish’s popularity lies in its ease of preparation, comforting flavors, and ability to feed a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings and family dinners. Furthermore, the ability to customize it to fit dietary preferences and tastes has kept it a classic favorite in many kitchens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity, rich flavor, and versatility. It takes only a few basic ingredients to make a filling and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of cheese on top adds an indulgent layer, while the vegetables offer freshness and color. This recipe is also easy to adapt to suit your dietary preferences by swapping out ingredients like cheese or adding in your favorite vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a large group, this potato casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Health Benefits of Potato Casserole
- Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is important for eye health and immune function. They also provide fiber, which supports digestion.
- Zucchini is low in calories but high in vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and supports skin health. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins K and C, both of which play important roles in bone health and immune function. Cabbage is also high in fiber, which promotes digestive health.
- Eggs are a complete protein, meaning they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs to function. They also provide essential vitamins like vitamin B12 and riboflavin.
- Cheese adds a good dose of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth, as well as protein to help with muscle building.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free flour alternative.
- Dairy-Free: You can make this dish dairy-free by using plant-based cheese alternatives and a dairy-free yogurt.
Storage Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 1 month; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before storing in the freezer.
Conclusion This Potato and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese is an easy, hearty, and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for a gathering, this casserole delivers satisfying flavors and nutritional benefits. The combination of potatoes, vegetables, eggs, and cheese makes for a filling meal, while the fresh topping of tomatoes and bell peppers adds color and texture. It’s the perfect meal for any time of day, and it can be easily customized to suit your tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use other vegetables in this casserole? Yes, you can add or substitute vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to fit your taste.
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Can I make this dish without cheese? Yes, the casserole will still taste great without cheese, or you can substitute a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bake it when ready to serve.
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Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes work well in this recipe and add a slightly sweeter flavor.
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How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery? Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture from the vegetables, especially the zucchini, before adding them to the casserole.
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Can I add meat to the casserole? Yes, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to make it a heartier meal.
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How can I make the casserole spicier? Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the batter mixture for an added kick.
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What can I serve with this casserole? It pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of crispy bread.
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Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
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Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 1 month. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing and reheat when ready to serve