When it comes to comfort food, few dishes satisfy quite like a casserole. This Delicious Baked Potato Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply craving something hearty and satisfying. With its combination of crispy roasted potatoes, creamy egg mixture, savory sausage , and fresh garnishes like green onions and dill, this casserole brings together familiar ingredients in a way that feels comforting, yet special. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your taste or dietary needs.
This casserole is truly versatile: serve it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at a party. It’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love, and its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for busy cooks and beginner chefs alike. Let’s dive into the details of this recipe, from preparation to baking, and discover why it’s bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
Before jumping into the instructions, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe calls for a few simple items that are easily accessible and deliver rich flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need to make the Delicious Baked Potato Casserole for 4 to 6 servings:
- 800 g Potatoes: Peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes. You’ll need starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes for this recipe, as they hold up well during baking and create a creamy texture.
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil: To coat the potatoes for roasting, which will give them a crispy, golden exterior.
- Salt: To taste. You’ll need it for both the potatoes and the egg mixture.
- Black pepper: To taste. A little goes a long way in enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder: For an aromatic flavor that complements the roasted potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika: Adds a smoky, mild spice to the potatoes, contributing depth of flavor.
- 3 Eggs: These will help bind the casserole together and provide a creamy texture.
- 3 tablespoons Sour cream: Adds richness to the egg mixture, creating a smooth and creamy base.
- 1 Tomato: Diced. The tomato adds a burst of color and a slightly tangy flavor that balances the richness of the potatoes and eggs.
- 100 g Sausage: Diced. These meats bring savory and smoky flavors to the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dill: Finely chopped. Dill is a classic herb that complements potatoes and adds a refreshing note to the casserole.
- 1/3 teaspoon Salt: For seasoning the egg mixture, ensuring the casserole is flavorful throughout.
- Green onions: Finely chopped, for garnish. These provide a crisp, fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to walk through the process of making this delicious baked potato casserole. The steps are straightforward, and the hands-on time is minimal. Most of the cooking time involves roasting the potatoes and baking the casserole, which means you can spend more time doing other things while the dish comes together.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature ensures the potatoes will roast properly and become golden and crispy on the outside, while still soft on the inside.
- Cut and Season the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes. The size doesn’t have to be exact, but aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Make sure each potato cube is coated in oil, as this will help them crisp up during roasting. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste. Stir the potatoes thoroughly so the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Roast the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures the potatoes won’t stick to the pan and helps with cleanup. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fork-tender. Halfway through the roasting time, stir the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
While the potatoes are roasting, you can prepare the creamy egg mixture that will bind the casserole together and add richness.
- Whisk the Eggs: Crack 3 eggs into a separate bowl. Using a fork or whisk, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are well blended.
- Add Sour Cream and Seasoning: To the beaten eggs, add 3 tablespoons of sour cream, 1/3 teaspoon of salt, and a little black pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The sour cream will make the eggs rich and velvety, contributing to the overall creaminess of the casserole.
- Prepare the Add-Ins: Dice the tomato and sausage into small, even pieces. Finely chop the green onions and dill. These fresh ingredients will add color and flavor to the casserole, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Now that the potatoes are roasted and the egg mixture is prepared, it’s time to put everything together.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the roasted potatoes to a baking dish. Pour the egg and sour cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, making sure it covers them completely. This will create a creamy base that binds the potatoes together and adds richness.
- Add the Diced Tomato and Sausage: Spread the diced tomato and sausage evenly over the top of the potatoes. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add texture and visual appeal to the casserole.
- Sprinkle with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle the chopped green onions and dill over the casserole for added flavor and color. The green onions provide a fresh, crisp bite, while the dill adds a refreshing note that pairs beautifully with the potatoes.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Reduce the Oven Temperature: After removing the potatoes from the oven, lower the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the eggs set properly without overcooking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole back into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is slightly golden. The casserole should be firm to the touch, and the top should have a light golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve. Slice it into portions and serve hot. It pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Version: If you want to make a vegetarian version of this casserole, simply omit the sausage and replace it with extra vegetables. Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would all make excellent additions.
- Cheese Addition: For an extra creamy and cheesy casserole, consider adding shredded cheese to the egg mixture or sprinkling some on top of the casserole before baking. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of different cheeses would work well.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, bake it in the oven as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chill.
- Customize the Meat: While sausage work great in this recipe, you can easily swap it for ground beef, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. The options are endless!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Calcium: 90mg
- Iron: 2.3mg
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes make an excellent substitute for regular potatoes. They will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a beautiful color to the casserole. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as sweet potatoes may cook faster.
Can I make this casserole without eggs?
If you prefer not to use eggs, you can replace them with a vegan egg substitute, such as a flaxseed meal mixture or tofu. You can also use cashew cream or another dairy-free option to create the creamy texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Once assembled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is delicious on its own but can also be paired with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
This Delicious Baked Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a hearty, flavorful meal that can easily stand on its own. The crispy roasted potatoes, creamy egg mixture, savory sausage, and fresh garnishes make it a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. The best part is that it’s so versatile—you can adapt it to suit your tastes, dietary needs, and what you have on hand in your kitchen. Enjoy!