Savory Vegetable and Sausage Bake

This savory vegetable and sausage bake is a satisfying and hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables, flavorful sausage, and a creamy, cheesy egg mixture. It’s perfect for any meal, whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to serve at brunch. The vegetables are sautéed until tender, then mixed with cooked sausage, whisked eggs, and a bit of cream, creating a delicious and filling bake. Topped with a layer of melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit in your household. You can also customize it with your favorite vegetables and sausages, making it a versatile and easy meal.

Preparation Time

• Total preparation and cooking time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Vegetables:

• 1 onion, chopped
• Sunflower oil (for cooking)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 pepper, chopped
• 2 zucchinis, chopped
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Paprika (to taste)
• Vegetable seasoning mix (to taste)

For the Sausage and Egg Mixture:

• 2 sausages, cooked and chopped
• 5 eggs
• 200 grams cream
• 180 grams flour
• Green onions, chopped
• Parsley, chopped

For the Topping:

• Grated cheese (for topping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Heat sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Stir in the chopped carrot, bell pepper, and zucchinis. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and vegetable seasoning mix to taste.
   • Cook the vegetables for about 10-15 minutes, until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Sausage and Egg Mixture:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream until smooth.
   • Gradually add the flour, mixing well to combine.
   • Stir in the chopped green onions, parsley, and cooked sausage until everything is evenly mixed.

3. Combine and Bake:

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • In a large baking dish, combine the cooked vegetables with the sausage and egg mixture, mixing everything together.
   • Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the mixture is set in the center.

4. Serve:

   • Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this savory bake with a side of fresh salad for a light and nutritious meal.
• Pair it with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives would be a great addition for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips

• You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. The recipe is flexible and can be customized based on what you have on hand.
• If you want to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Nutritional Benefits

• Vegetables: The carrots, peppers, and zucchinis are full of vitamins and antioxidants, which help support immune health and promote healthy skin.
• Eggs: Eggs provide high-quality protein, supporting muscle health and keeping you full for longer.
• Sausage: Sausage is a good source of protein and essential fats, but be sure to choose a leaner sausage to reduce the fat content in the dish.
• Cheese: Cheese adds calcium for healthy bones, along with protein to support muscle and tissue repair.

Dietary Information

• This recipe is not vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh.
• The recipe is not gluten-free but can be adapted by using gluten-free flour.
• It’s also high in protein and rich in vegetables, making it a balanced meal option.

Storage

• Leftover savory vegetable and sausage bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Conclusion

This savory vegetable and sausage bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables, protein-packed sausage, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Perfect for any time of the day, this meal is as nutritious as it is satisfying. Whether served as a main dish or paired with a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a hearty and delicious meal.

5 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

2. Can I make this bake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this bake? Yes, you can freeze this bake after it has been assembled. Let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

4. What other types of cheese can I use for the topping? You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, you can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or vegetarian sausage if you prefer a lighter or plant-based option.