Casseroles are one of those perfect meals that never disappoint, especially when you need something quick, hearty, and flavorful. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also taste just as good (if not better) when reheated.
This egg dinner casserole is a great example—it’s filling, packed with flavor, and can be made ahead or enjoyed fresh from the oven.
If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals like me, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. It’s a bit of a twist on the classic farmer’s casserole, but with a delicious topping of fried eggs that adds extra flavor and texture. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish can easily become a weeknight favorite.
Egg Dinner Casserole: A Hearty Meal for Any Day
Ingredients:
- 500g potatoes (peeled and sliced)
- 5 eggs
- 150g bacon (cut into pieces)
- 150g grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 onion (peeled and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of sugar
- A dash of chili pepper (optional, for heat)
- A bunch of fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Start by peeling the potatoes, washing them thoroughly, and slicing them into approximately 1 cm thick rounds.
- Place the sliced potatoes into a pan, cover them with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
- Once it boils, let the potatoes cook for about 10 minutes, then drain them and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onions
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat a pan and add the chopped bacon. Fry it until it becomes crispy and golden.
- Peel and chop the onion. Once the bacon is done, add the onions to the pan and sauté them with the bacon until the onions turn translucent and lightly browned.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce
- Add the canned chopped tomatoes to the pan with the bacon and onions. Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika powder, salt, pepper, sugar, and chili pepper (if using).
- Mix everything well and let it cook together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a casserole dish, start by layering half of the cooked potatoes on the bottom.
- Spread half of the tomato-bacon sauce over the potatoes, followed by half of the grated mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until it’s hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Add the Fried Eggs
- Once the casserole has baked, remove it from the oven and carefully crack the eggs over the top of the casserole, spacing them evenly.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking (you can bake it longer if you prefer firmer yolks).
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
This egg dinner casserole is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory bacon, and rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying base, while the melted mozzarella and runny fried eggs on top add that extra layer of goodness. It’s a filling meal that your family will love, and it can easily be made ahead for busy nights.
Tips for Success:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate it overnight. Then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
- Customize the toppings: If you’re not a fan of bacon, you can easily substitute it with sausage, ground turkey, or even vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Add extra flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to give the casserole your personal touch. Fresh thyme or rosemary would complement the potatoes beautifully.
This casserole is perfect for any meal of the day, whether it’s a quick dinner or a hearty brunch. Plus, it reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for leftovers. Try it for yourself and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your home!
