Easy and Delicious Potato Bake Recipe: A Budget-Friendly Delight

Oven-Baked Potato, Onion & Red Pepper Casserole

Golden, savory, and packed with flavor — made with real pantry staples

 Ingredients:

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated

• 2 eggs

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 pinch marjoram

• 1 dash ground nutmeg

• 1 pinch ground red pepper (or crushed red chili flakes, optional)

• 2 teaspoons oil (for sautéing)

• (Optional) Grated cheese for topping

 Step-by-Step Preparation:

STEP 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and grate them coarsely using a box grater or food processor.

2. Place the shredded potatoes into a large bowl and cover with cold water.

3. Stir gently with your hands to remove excess starch, then set aside to soak for about 10 minutes.

   • (This helps prevent gumminess and makes the bake crispier.)

STEP 2: Cook the Onion & Red Pepper

1. While potatoes are soaking, dice the onion and chop the red bell pepper into small pieces. Remove seeds and stem.

2. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

4. Stir in the chopped red pepper, cook together for another 5–7 minutes until softened.

5. Remove from heat and set aside.

STEP 3: Prepare the Potato-Egg Mixture

1. Drain the soaked potatoes thoroughly, then squeeze out excess water using your hands or a clean kitchen towel.

2. Return the squeezed potatoes to a clean mixing bowl.

3. Add the following:

   • 2 eggs

   • 1 teaspoon salt

   • 1 pinch marjoram

   • 1 dash nutmeg

   • 1 pinch ground red pepper (optional for a mild heat)

4. Mix everything vigorously with a spoon or clean hands until fully combined and egg coats all the potatoes.

STEP 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Grease a baking dish (an 8×8-inch dish or similar size) with oil or butter.

3. Evenly spread the potato mixture into the bottom of the baking dish, pressing it lightly.

4. Spoon the sautéed onion and red pepper mixture on top of the potatoes.

5. (Optional but recommended) Sprinkle grated cheese over the top — such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan for a golden crust.

STEP 5: Bake

1. Place the dish into the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 50 minutes, or until:

   • The top is golden brown

   • The potatoes are tender all the way through (test with a knife or fork)

STEP 6: Serve

1. Allow the casserole to cool slightly for 5–10 minutes.

2. Slice into portions and serve warm as:

   • A side dish with meats or salads

   • A vegetarian main course

   • A hearty brunch with eggs or yogurt

 Tips & Variations:

• Make it cheesier: Mix grated cheese into the potato batter as well as on top.

• Herb it up: Try adding fresh parsley, thyme, or dill for more herb flavor.

• Spicy twist: Add chopped chili or hot paprika.

• Add greens: Mix in spinach or kale for a healthier variation.

• Try different cheeses: Feta, goat cheese, or a smoky gouda all work wonderfully.

 Storage:

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.

• Reheat in the oven or skillet to keep the edges crispy.

 Final Thoughts:

This budget-friendly, cozy dish delivers big comfort with little effort. It’s ideal for using up staple ingredients and is easily adaptable. Great for lunchboxes, potlucks, or just a quiet family dinner.

Let me know if you’d like a low-carb, vegan, or gluten-free version too!