This Vegetable & Potato Savory Bake is a wholesome, colorful, and nutrient-packed dish perfect for any meal of the day. It combines grated potatoes, fresh vegetables, and a rich egg and yogurt mixture, baked to golden perfection and topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs. The dish is not only visually appealing but also a comforting combination of texturesโsoft potatoes, tender vegetables, and gooey, flavorful cheese. Ideal for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, itโs both hearty and healthy, making it a family favorite or a great option for entertaining guests.
Full Recipe
Ingredients
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3 eggs
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1 tsp salt
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 cup milk
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200 g (7 oz) flour
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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Fresh spring onions, chopped
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1 tsp dill, finely chopped
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3 tbsp sunflower oil
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3 potatoes, grated
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Water (as needed for soaking or mixing potatoes)
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1 red onion, sliced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 carrot, grated
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1 tomato, sliced
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6 mushrooms, sliced
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1 tbsp butter
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150 g (5.3 oz) yogurt
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200 g (7 oz) cheese, grated
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Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Cooking Directions
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Preheat your oven to 180ยฐC (356ยฐF) to ensure even baking throughout the dish.
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In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and season with 1 tsp salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
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Gradually add the milk, mixing well, followed by the flour and baking powder, creating a smooth, lump-free batter. Fold in the chopped spring onions and dill for freshness and a subtle herbal aroma.
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Prepare the potatoes by grating them into a separate bowl. Rinse briefly with water if needed, then gently squeeze out excess moisture. Combine the grated potatoes with a small drizzle of sunflower oil and set aside.
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In a skillet, heat 2โ3 tablespoons of sunflower oil over medium heat. Sautรฉ the sliced red onion and bell pepper for 5โ7 minutes until softened. Add the grated carrot and cook for another 3โ4 minutes until all vegetables are tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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In a greased baking dish, layer the grated potatoes evenly at the bottom. Spread the sautรฉed vegetable mixture over the potatoes. Pour the prepared egg and milk batter evenly over the top, ensuring full coverage.
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Arrange the tomato slices over the batter and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
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While the bake is cooking, prepare the mushrooms. Slice them evenly and sautรฉ in butter until tender. Combine them with yogurt and fold in finely chopped parsley for flavor.
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Remove the baking dish from the oven and pour the mushroom and yogurt mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle the grated cheese generously to cover the surface.
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Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
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Remove from the oven and allow the bake to cool slightly. Garnish with extra fresh parsley before serving. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrients
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Calories: ~350 per serving
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Protein: 14 g
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Carbohydrates: 40 g
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Fat: 15 g
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Fiber: 5 g
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Sodium: 450 mg
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
This savory bake is a delightful combination of creamy, tender, and cheesy layers. The potatoes provide a hearty base, while the medley of vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrients. The yogurt and egg mixture creates a light custard-like texture, balancing the richness of the cheese and butter. Itโs easy to prepare, highly versatile, and perfect for meal prep, brunches, or family dinners.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Baked vegetable and potato casseroles have been a staple in many European and Mediterranean households for centuries, offering a way to combine simple, affordable ingredients into a nourishing and filling meal. This particular version draws inspiration from Eastern European home cooking, where potatoes, eggs, and seasonal vegetables are commonly baked together. The addition of fresh herbs, yogurt, and cheese elevates the dish, adding creaminess and depth while keeping it wholesome.
Ingredient Spotlight
Potatoes act as the main backbone of the dish, providing starch, structure, and a soft, creamy base. Carrots and bell peppers bring sweetness and vibrancy, while onions add depth and natural flavor. Spring onions and dill infuse fresh herbal notes, enhancing the overall taste. The combination of yogurt and eggs ensures a moist, custardy texture, and the cheese topping melts to form a golden, indulgent layer that complements the vegetables perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This bake is best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is gooey and the potatoes are tender. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bake in an oven-safe dish and warm at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for 10โ15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the cheese rubbery. You can also freeze the unbaked dish for up to 2 months, then bake directly from frozen for approximately 40โ45 minutes until fully cooked and golden.
Common Variations to Try
For variety, substitute zucchini or mushrooms for some of the potatoes. Add spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, or nutmeg for additional warmth. For a richer flavor, incorporate cream cheese or mascarpone into the egg and yogurt mixture. Vegetarian eaters can keep it as is, while meat lovers may add cooked bacon, ham, or chicken pieces. You can also experiment with different cheese types, such as cheddar, gouda, or Gruyรจre, for unique flavors.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve this vegetable and potato bake with a crisp side salad for lunch or dinner, or pair it with roasted meats, grilled fish, or sausages for a complete meal. It also works beautifully for brunch with a side of avocado, fresh bread, or a poached egg. A chilled white wine or light beer complements the dishโs creamy and cheesy layers perfectly.
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Health Benefits
Despite its indulgent appearance, this bake is packed with nutrients. Potatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Carrots and bell peppers are rich in antioxidants and beta-carotene. Eggs and cheese add high-quality protein, while yogurt contributes probiotics and creaminess without excessive fat. Fresh herbs such as dill and parsley add antioxidants and phytochemicals, supporting overall health. Using sunflower oil in moderation adds heart-healthy fats.
Conclusion
This Vegetable & Potato Savory Bake is a wholesome, comforting, and versatile dish perfect for any meal. It combines nutritious vegetables, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy, golden topping thatโs sure to please the whole family. Its simplicity, adaptability, and balance of flavors make it ideal for weekday dinners, brunches, or special gatherings. Whether served warm for a cozy meal or prepared ahead for entertaining, this savory bake is a true crowd-pleaser thatโs both satisfying and nourishing.