The Heartwarming Story of Simple Ingredients
Some of the most memorable meals are born from simplicity—a handful of everyday ingredients transformed into something magical. This Potato and Ham Vegetable Bake is a testament to the culinary creativity that happens in home kitchens around the world. With just a few potatoes, an egg, and some vegetables, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients: Your Flavor Symphony
For the Potato and Ham Vegetable Bake
- Potatoes: 3 medium (about 450-500 g / 1-1.1 lbs)
- Cornstarch: 3 tablespoons (30-35 g)
- Onion: 1 medium (about 150 g / 5.3 oz)
- Carrot: 1 medium (about 100-120 g / 3.5-4.2 oz)
- Bell Pepper: 1 medium (about 150 g / 5.3 oz)
- Tomatoes: 3 small (about 150-180 g / 5-6 oz)
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped (15-20 g)
- Egg: 1 large (about 50 g)
- Ham: 3 slices (about 90-100 g)
- Mozzarella Cheese: A handful (about 50-60 g / 2 oz)
- Salt: To taste (5-10 g)
- Black Pepper: To taste (2-3 g)
- Olive Oil: 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 ml)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Peel and grate potatoes
- Finely dice onion
- Grate carrot
- Chop bell pepper into small pieces
- Dice tomatoes
- Chop fresh parsley
- Create the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine grated potatoes
- Sprinkle cornstarch over potatoes
- Add diced onion, carrot, and bell pepper
- Mix in chopped tomatoes and parsley
- Bind the Mixture
- Beat the egg
- Pour over the vegetable mixture
- Season with salt and black pepper
- Mix thoroughly to combine
- Add Protein and Cheese
- Chop ham into small pieces
- Fold ham into the potato mixture
- Transfer to a greased baking dish
- Tear or grate mozzarella cheese over the top
- Bake to Perfection
- Drizzle with olive oil
- Bake for 35-40 minutes
- Look for golden-brown top and crispy edges
- Cheese should be melted and bubbly
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes
- Cut into portions
- Garnish with extra parsley if desired
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4-5
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate)
- Protein: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-18g
- Fiber: 3-4g
Pro Tips for Perfect Potato Bake
- Potato Tip: Squeeze out excess moisture from grated potatoes
- Cornstarch Hack: Helps create a crispy exterior
- Cheese Secret: Use freshly grated mozzarella
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives:
- Use bacon instead of ham
- Try cooked chicken
- Make it vegetarian with plant-based protein
- Cheese Variations:
- Cheddar for sharper flavor
- Gouda for a smoky twist
- Mix multiple cheeses
- Dietary Modifications:
- Use gluten-free cornstarch
- Make it dairy-free with cheese alternatives
- Add extra vegetables for nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Prepare and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Q2: How do I keep it crispy? A: Squeeze moisture from potatoes, use cornstarch.
Q3: What can I serve with this? A: Green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to a month.
Q5: How do I prevent it from being soggy? A: Ensure potatoes are well-drained, use cornstarch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for 2-3 days
- Reheating: Best in oven to maintain crispiness
- Prep Ahead: Grate vegetables in advance
- Freezing: Possible, but texture may change
This Potato and Ham Vegetable Bake is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly magical and delicious!