Looking for a unique twist on the classic pizza? Try this Oven-Baked Potato ‘Pizza’ Casserole! It combines the comforting flavors of a traditional pizza with the hearty goodness of potatoes, all baked into one delicious casserole. This recipe is not only a budget-friendly alternative to pizza, but it’s also packed with vegetables and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup liquid yogurt (125 ml / 4.3 fl. oz.)
- 4 tablespoons flour (100 g / 3.5 oz.)
- 150 grams cheese (5.3 oz.), grated
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Italian herbs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Sunflower oil, for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and grease a baking dish with sunflower oil.
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash and peel the potatoes, then grate them into a large mixing bowl. Peel and finely dice the onion and grate the carrot. Add both to the potatoes.
- Prepare Additional Veggies: Seed and slice the bell pepper into strips. Slice the tomatoes into rounds and set aside.
- Make Egg Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, liquid yogurt, and flour. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Combine Mixture: Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the grated potatoes, onions, and carrots. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the potato mixture in the prepared dish. Top with half of the tomato slices and bell pepper strips. Sprinkle half the grated cheese over the top. Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until golden and crispy on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Tips
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors; mozzarella and cheddar are excellent choices for a gooey texture.
- Adding Proteins: For a non-vegetarian version, you can add layers of cooked ground meat or pepperoni between the vegetable layers.
- Serving: Serve with a side salad or a light soup to balance out the meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Oven-Baked Potato ‘Pizza’ Casserole is ideal for a cozy family dinner or as a comforting meal on a chilly evening. It’s hearty enough to serve as a standalone dish but pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed greens to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the meal. You can also serve it as part of a buffet spread, allowing guests to enjoy a slice alongside other dishes. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy mayo on top for those who enjoy a creamy element with their meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this potato casserole is nutritionally rich, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Potatoes provide a high amount of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which are essential for heart health and digestion. The addition of eggs and cheese adds protein and calcium, making this dish a filling option that supports muscle health and bone strength. However, be aware of the calorie and fat content from the cheese and oil used, making portion control important for those monitoring their intake.