This savory potato and cheese bake is a hearty, easy-to-make dish packed with vegetables, eggs, and a cheesy topping. Perfect as a main course or side dish, it’s ideal for family dinners or potlucks. The addition of kefir or yogurt gives it a tangy twist, while the parsley adds a touch of freshness.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 4-5 Potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 Carrot, grated
- 1 Leek (or 1 onion), finely chopped
- 2 Eggs
- 1 glass (200 ml) Kefir or plain drinking yogurt
- 200 g (7 oz) Wheat flour
- 3 Tomatoes, sliced (for topping)
- 100 g (3.5 oz) Cheese, grated (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons Parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and grate the potatoes and carrot. Place the grated potatoes in a bowl of water and let them sit for a few minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.
- Finely chop the leek or onion.
- Mix the Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, carrot, and leek (or onion).
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with kefir or yogurt. Add the flour, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture and mix well to form a batter.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Add the egg mixture to the vegetables and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Toppings:
- Arrange the tomato slices on top of the vegetable layer. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the tomatoes.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bake is set.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with sour cream or a garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.
Cooking Tips
- Squeeze out excess water from the grated potatoes to avoid a watery bake.
- Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in fiber and vitamins from potatoes, carrots, and leeks.
- Provides protein and calcium from eggs and cheese.
- Kefir or yogurt adds probiotics for gut health.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten.
- Not suitable for gluten-free diets unless using gluten-free flour.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A versatile dish that’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.
- Packed with wholesome vegetables and cheesy goodness.
- Perfect for family dinners, brunches, or potlucks.
- A balance of hearty, creamy, and fresh flavors.
Conclusion
This savory potato and cheese bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of vegetables, cheese, and a creamy base makes it hearty enough to enjoy as a main meal or a delightful side dish. It’s easy to customize, ensuring everyone will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness to the dish. - Can I substitute kefir with something else?
Plain yogurt, buttermilk, or sour cream can be used as substitutes. - What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of Parmesan and Gruyere work well. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions. - How do I prevent the bake from being too watery?
Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes before mixing. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute wheat flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes may change. - What can I serve alongside this bake?
Serve with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or a hearty soup. - How do I make the top extra crispy?
Broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to get a golden, crispy top.