This hearty and flavorful casserole combines layers of seasoned potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and savory sausages, all smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal perfect for dinner.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• • For the Potatoes:
    • • Olive oil (for cooking and greasing)
      • Salt (to taste)
      • Ground black pepper (to taste)
    • • Provencal herbs (to taste)
      • Sweet paprika (to taste)
      • 5 medium-sized potatoes

  • For the Egg Mixture:
    • • 4 large eggs
      • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
    • Salt (to taste)
    • Ground black pepper (to taste)

• • For the Vegetables:
    • • 1 medium white onion, chopped
      • 2 cloves garlic, minced
      • 1 large carrot, grated
    • 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
    • Olive oil (for sautéing)

• • For the Sauce:
    • • 60 grams (2.11 oz) butter
      • 50 grams (1.76 oz) flour
      • 400 milliliters (13.52 fl oz) milk
    • Salt (to taste)
    • Ground black pepper (to taste)

• For Assembly:
  • • 2 sausages, sliced
    • 100 grams (3.52 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
    • Green onions (for garnish)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Potatoes:
      • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
      • Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Toss them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, Provencal herbs, and sweet paprika.
      • Spread the potatoes in a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until slightly tender.

1. 1. Prepare the Eggs:
      • In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a tablespoon of mayonnaise. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.
   2. Prepare the Vegetables:
      • • In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
      • Add the minced garlic, grated carrot, and chopped red bell pepper. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
   3. Prepare the Sauce:
      • • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
      • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   4. Assemble the Casserole:
      • • Once the potatoes are partially baked, take the dish out of the oven.
      • • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potatoes.
        • Layer the sautéed vegetables and sliced sausages on top of the egg mixture.
        • Pour the prepared sauce over the casserole and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top.

   5. Bake:
      • Return the casserole to the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for another 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

1. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Side Dish: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
  • Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Creamy Topping: Top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

• Beverage Pairing: This casserole pairs nicely with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a chilled beer.

Cooking Tips:

• • Potato Prep: Ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly so they cook uniformly.

• • Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or peas for added texture and flavor.
  • Cheese Substitution: You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it just before serving for convenience.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Potatoes: High in potassium and fiber, they help support heart health and digestion.
  • Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.

• Vegetables: The onions, carrots, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein to support strong bones and muscle function.

Conclusion:

This Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella is a comforting, flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The rich, creamy sauce and the melty mozzarella cheese perfectly complement the tender potatoes and savory sausages. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as part of a larger meal, this casserole is both satisfying and nourishing. Try it out, and you’ll love the combination of flavors and the ease of preparation.