A comforting and savory dish, the Cheesy Grated Potato Casserole is perfect for any occasion. Combining grated potatoes, cheese, eggs, and fresh vegetables, this casserole creates a satisfying meal with a crispy golden top. Whether served as a side dish or the main event, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes: Grated potatoes provide the hearty base of the casserole.
- 2 eggs: Help bind the casserole together and add richness.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds savory flavor.
- 1 sweet pepper, diced: Brings a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.
- 80g (2.8 oz) cheese, grated: For a cheesy, golden topping.
- Salt, pepper, paprika, oregano (to taste): Seasoning for flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and greasing the casserole dish.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the potatoes using a fine grater.
- Soak the grated potatoes in cold water for a few minutes to remove excess starch.
- Press the grated potatoes between your hands or using a cloth to remove excess water.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the diced sweet pepper and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
- Season with salt and pepper and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes with 2 eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Prepare the Casserole Dish
- Grease a casserole dish with olive oil.
- Press the potato mixture evenly into the dish.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables and Cheese
- Spread the sautéed vegetables on top of the potato mixture.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake for 50 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing into portions.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh salad: A light salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes will balance out the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with sour cream: A dollop of sour cream on the side adds creaminess and tang.
- Add a spicy dip: Pair with salsa or a spicy yogurt dip for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Squeeze out excess water from potatoes: Ensure the grated potatoes are well-drained to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Customize with your favorite cheese: Experiment with cheese blends like mozzarella and cheddar for added flavor and gooeyness.
- Add other vegetables: You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: High in fiber and vitamin C, contributing to digestive health and immune function.
- Eggs: Provide protein, helping to bind the casserole and add richness.
- Cheese: Offers calcium and fat, contributing to bone health and adding flavor.
- Vegetables: Sweet peppers and onions provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
FAQs
How can I store the Cheesy Grated Potato Casserole?
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to customize the casserole to your taste.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Yes, you can! Simply replace any flour or breadcrumbs in the recipe with gluten-free alternatives if needed. The recipe as it stands is already naturally gluten-free.
What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
- While any cheese you love will work, cheddar and mozzarella are particularly great choices due to their melting properties. You can also use a mix for more complexity in flavor.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Grated Potato Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, combining the comforting flavors of potatoes, cheese, and vegetables in a simple yet delicious casserole. It’s easy to prepare, and its golden, cheesy topping will make it a hit at your dinner table. Serve it with a fresh salad or dip for a complete meal. Whether enjoyed as a side or a main dish, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.