This hearty and flavorful casserole combines layers of seasoned potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and savory sausages, all smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal perfect for dinner.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- For the Potatoes:
- Olive oil (for cooking and greasing)
- Salt (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- Provencal herbs (to taste)
- Sweet paprika (to taste)
- 5 medium-sized potatoes
- For the Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- For the Sauce:
- 60 grams (2.11 oz) butter
- 50 grams (1.76 oz) flour
- 400 milliliters (13.52 fl oz) milk
- Salt (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- For Assembly:
- 2 sausages, sliced
- 100 grams (3.52 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
- Green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Toss them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, Provencal herbs, and sweet paprika.
- Spread the potatoes in a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until slightly tender.
- Prepare the Eggs:
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a tablespoon of mayonnaise. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, grated carrot, and chopped red bell pepper. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Once the potatoes are partially baked, take the dish out of the oven.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Layer the sautéed vegetables and sliced sausages on top of the egg mixture.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the casserole and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for another 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Creamy Topping: Top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
- Beverage Pairing: This casserole pairs nicely with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a chilled beer.
Cooking Tips:
- Potato Prep: Ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or peas for added texture and flavor.
- Cheese Substitution: You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it just before serving for convenience.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes: High in potassium and fiber, they help support heart health and digestion.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- Vegetables: The onions, carrots, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
- Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein to support strong bones and muscle function.
Conclusion:
This Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella is a comforting, flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The rich, creamy sauce and the melty mozzarella cheese perfectly complement the tender potatoes and savory sausages. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as part of a larger meal, this casserole is both satisfying and nourishing. Try it out, and you’ll love the combination of flavors and the ease of preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, cheddar or gouda would work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What can I use instead of sausages?
- You can substitute with cooked chicken, ham, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
- How do I make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free flour in the sauce to make it gluten-free.
- Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
- Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions.
- Can I use a different type of potato?
- Yes, sweet potatoes or red potatoes can be used for a different flavor.
- Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
- Substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free cheese.
- How do I know when the casserole is done?
- The top should be golden brown, and the sauce should be bubbling around the edges.
- Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Yes, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
- Add a little more milk while cooking the sauce to reach your desired consistency.
This casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines simple ingredients for a filling meal that’s sure to please!