Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bacon Casserole
This hearty and flavorful casserole combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and nutritious broccoli in a creamy egg mixture, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect dish for a comforting family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Preparation Time
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- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
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- Potatoes: 500g (about 3 medium-sized), peeled and diced
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Bacon: 200g, cut into small pieces
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- Broccoli: 600g (about 2 heads), cut into florets
- Eggs: 5 large
- Sour Cream: 3 tablespoons
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- Hard Mozzarella Cheese: 100g, grated
- Vegetable Oil: For cooking
- Salt: To taste
Directions
1. Prepare Ingredients:
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- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the onion finely and cut the bacon into small pieces.
- Cut the broccoli into small florets and grate the mozzarella cheese.
2. Cook Potatoes and Broccoli:
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Steam or boil the broccoli florets in salted water until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook Bacon and Onion:
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- Heat a little vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Cook the bacon until crispy.
- Add the chopped onion to the bacon and sauté until the onion is translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix & Assemble:
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- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
- Add the cooked potatoes, broccoli, bacon, and onions to the egg mixture. Mix gently to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the egg mixture is set.
6. Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite sides!
Serving Suggestions
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- Serve as a standalone dish or pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or dill for added flavor and presentation.
Cooking Tips
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- Ensure the potatoes are cooked until tender but not overly soft to maintain their texture in the casserole.
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli during steaming or boiling to keep it vibrant and slightly firm.
- Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
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- Broccoli: High in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Potatoes: A good source of potassium, vitamin C, and energy-boosting carbohydrates.
- Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
Dietary Information
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- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, such as sour cream, are gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Reduce or replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
- Not Suitable for Vegetarians: Replace bacon with vegetarian bacon or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
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- Calories: ~290 kcal
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~18g
Storage
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- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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- Packed with comforting flavors and a creamy texture.
- Easy to prepare and uses common pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bacon Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone. Its creamy, cheesy top layer and the wholesome mix of vegetables and bacon make it a must-try for any occasion!