Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• • 5 medium-sized potatoes
  • 2 sausages (pork, chicken, or vegetarian)
  • 4 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
• 100 grams of mozzarella cheese (3.52 ounces)

For the Vegetable Sauté:

• • 1 white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons of green onions, finely chopped

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• • 60 grams of butter (2.11 ounces)
  • 50 grams of all-purpose flour (1.76 ounces)
  • 400 milliliters of milk (13.52 fluid ounces)

• • Salt, to taste
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon of Provencal herbs

Seasonings:

• • Olive oil, for greasing and sautéing
  • Salt, as needed

• Ground black pepper, as needed

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour

Total Time:

1 hour and 30 minutes

Servings:

6 servings

Estimated Kcal per Serving:

Approximately 400 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Potatoes:

1. Peel and Slice: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about ¼ inch thick). Set aside.
2. Parboil the Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a pot of salted boiling water and parboil for 8-10 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Preparing the Vegetable Sauté:

1. 1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

1. 1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped white onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
   2. Add Carrot and Bell Pepper: Incorporate the diced carrot and bell pepper. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until softened.
   3. Season: Sprinkle salt, ground black pepper, and Provencal herbs. Stir well and remove from heat. Set aside.

3. Cooking the Sausages:

1. Slice and Cook: Slice the sausages into rounds and lightly cook them in a separate skillet until browned. Set aside.

4. Making the Béchamel Sauce:

1. 1. Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt 60 grams of butter over medium heat.
   2. Add Flour: Add the flour to the melted butter, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to create a smooth roux.

1. Pour in the Milk: Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to stir for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
2. Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and a teaspoon of Provencal herbs to enhance the flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. Assembling the Casserole:

1. 1. Layer the Potatoes: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the parboiled potato slices, slightly overlapping them.

1. 1. Add Vegetables and Sausages: Spread the sautéed vegetable mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of the cooked sausage slices.
   2. Top with Remaining Potatoes: Add the remaining potato slices on top.
   3. Pour the Béchamel: Evenly pour the béchamel sauce over the layers, ensuring it seeps through.

1. Add the Egg-Mayo Mixture: Beat the 4 eggs with 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture over the casserole for a rich, golden crust.
2. Sprinkle Mozzarella: Finish by spreading the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

6. Baking:

1. 1. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

1. Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless

The timeless appeal of this Savory Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella lies in its comforting combination of textures and flavors. Potatoes are a beloved staple in many cultures due to their versatility and ability to carry a variety of seasonings. The addition of sausages provides a hearty, protein-rich element, while mozzarella cheese melts beautifully to create an irresistible, gooey topping.

Casseroles have been a culinary mainstay because they are simple to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for serving a group. This particular recipe shines because of the homemade béchamel sauce, which elevates the dish with its rich, velvety texture. The inclusion of vegetables and a touch of Provencal herbs adds depth and complexity, ensuring that every bite is balanced and full of flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approximation)

• • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 15g

• • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g

• Calcium: 180mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, while mozzarella adds a nice melt and mild flavor, you can substitute it with cheddar, gouda, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper taste.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Replace the sausages with plant-based sausage alternatives or omit them entirely and add more vegetables or a protein-rich option like tofu.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• • Cut Potatoes Evenly: Ensure that the potato slices are uniform in thickness so they cook evenly.
  • Prevent Lumps in the Sauce: Whisk continuously when adding the milk to the roux for a smooth béchamel.
  • Taste and Season: Taste the vegetable sauté before layering to ensure the seasoning is to your liking.

• Cheese Blend: Mix mozzarella with a stronger cheese like cheddar for more complex flavors.

Storage Tips

• • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or in the microwave.
  • Freezing: The baked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven.

• Reheating Tips: Reheat in an oven rather than a microwave to maintain the crispy cheese layer on top.

Conclusion

This Savory Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella is a celebration of classic, heartwarming flavors. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food, bringing families together over shared meals. The combination of tender potatoes, savory sausages, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy béchamel sauce creates a delightful mix of textures and tastes that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. This casserole’s appeal lies not just in its taste but in its simplicity and versatility, making it a dish you’ll return to time and time again.

Whether served as the centerpiece of a dinner or as part of a potluck, this dish’s hearty and inviting nature guarantees it will be a favorite. Enjoy making this dish and revel in the satisfaction it brings as you gather around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and, most importantly, good food.