Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Cut and Season the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to the bowl. Mix until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Roast the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Whisk the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, crack 3 eggs and whisk them together until the yolks and whites are well blended.
Add Sour Cream and Seasoning:
Add 3 tablespoons of sour cream, 1/3 teaspoon of salt, and a bit of black pepper to the eggs. Whisk again until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Add-Ins:
Dice the tomato and sausage (or ham) into small, even pieces.
Finely chop the green onions and dill.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Combine Ingredients:
Once the potatoes are roasted, place them in a baking dish.
Pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the potatoes, ensuring it covers them evenly.
Add the diced tomato and sausage, spreading them evenly across the top.
Sprinkle with chopped green onions and dill for added flavor and color.
Bake the Casserole:
Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F).
Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and slightly golden on top.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Slice into portions and serve hot. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities.)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Calcium: 90mg
Iron: 2.3mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Yes, you can use Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes. Each type will give a slightly different texture. Russets are fluffier, while Yukon Golds are creamier.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to Step 3, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, simply bake as directed. This makes it a great dish for meal prepping or hosting.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Just be sure to dice them small so they cook evenly with the potatoes.
4. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Of course. Simply omit the sausage or ham and add more vegetables or a meat substitute if you like.
5. What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. It will add a similar creaminess with a bit of a tangy flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Potato Casserole
Choose the Right Potatoes:
Starchy potatoes like Russet work best for a fluffy, creamy texture. For a firmer bite, go for Yukon Gold.
Season Well:
Don’t skimp on the seasoning when roasting the potatoes. The salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika add layers of flavor that make the dish stand out.
Roast the Potatoes Until Crispy:
For a better texture, make sure the potatoes are crispy before adding the egg mixture. This helps them stay firm after baking.
Experiment with Herbs and Spices:
Try adding thyme, oregano, or basil to the egg mixture for more depth of flavor.
Keep the Egg Mixture Creamy:
Adding sour cream keeps the eggs soft and prevents them from drying out during baking. If you prefer, you can also use cream cheese or crème fraîche.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate Leftovers:
Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it with aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat Properly:
To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can cover the dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes.
Freezing:
This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes might change slightly. Freeze the baked casserole in portions, then reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until hot.
Conclusion
This baked potato casserole is a true comfort food — easy to make, rich in flavor, and satisfying. The combination of crispy potatoes, fluffy eggs, and savory sausage, topped with fresh herbs and tomatoes, ensures that each bite is bursting with taste. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, a weekend brunch, or a holiday gathering, it’s sure to please. With the simple ingredients and flexible recipe, you can customize this dish to fit your preferences.
Give it a try, and you’ll see why this is a favorite in many households. A hearty, warm dish like this is perfect for bringing people together around the table. Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make meal and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills. Bon appétit!
