Herbed Potato & Cheese Egg Bake with Creamy Yogurt-Mustard-Tomato Drizzle

This Herbed Potato & Cheese Egg Bake combines the humble potato with creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, and fluffy eggs to create a rustic yet elegant casserole. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes seasoned with smoked paprika and black pepper mingle with pockets of gooey mini mozzarella and shredded hard cheese. Whisked eggs bind everything together into a tender, custardy bake. Topped with a vibrant cherry tomato and spring onion garnish and finished with a tangy yogurt-mustard-ketchup drizzle, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Its simple ingredients shine through in every bite, offering comfort and freshness in one pan.

Cooking Time

Preparation: 20 minutes
Assembly: 10 minutes
Baking: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp salt, divided

• 3–4 medium potatoes (about 600 g), peeled and thinly sliced

• Water, for parboiling

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 55 g mini mozzarella balls, halved

• 85 g hard cheese (e.g., cheddar or Gruyère), grated

• 6–8 cherry tomatoes, halved

• 2 spring onions (scallions), thinly sliced

• 28 g fresh parsley and dill, chopped (combined)

For the Drizzle:

• 3 tbsp plain natural yogurt

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp ketchup

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Preheat & Parboil Potatoes
   Preheat your oven to 180 °C (356 °F). Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add potato slices and cook 3 minutes until slightly tender but not falling apart. Drain and pat dry.

2. Season Potatoes
   In a bowl, toss the parboiled potato slices with ½ tsp salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper until evenly coated.

3. Layer the Bake
   Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil into a greased 9×9‐inch baking dish. Arrange half the potato slices in an even layer. Scatter half the mini mozzarella and shredded cheese over the potatoes. Repeat with remaining potatoes and cheeses.

4. Whisk the Eggs
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining ½ tsp salt, and 1 tbsp olive oil until smooth. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and cheese.

5. Bake
   Place the dish in the oven and bake 35–40 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is golden. A knife inserted should come out clean.

6. Garnish
   Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced spring onions, and chopped parsley-dill.

7. Prepare the Drizzle
   Whisk together yogurt, mustard, and ketchup in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the warm bake just before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving; serves 6)

• Calories: 210 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 15 g

• Protein: 8 g

• Fat: 12 g

• Fiber: 1.5 g

• Sugar: 2 g

• Sodium: 320 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Savory egg bakes—akin to crustless quiches—originated in European home cooking as a practical way to stretch eggs and dairy with vegetables and bread. Potato gratins and frittatas merged in modern interpretations, highlighting seasonal produce. The addition of smoked paprika nods to Spanish influences, while the yogurt-mustard drizzle draws from Mediterranean and American brunch trends. Today, this versatile bake is beloved for its make-ahead ease and crowd-pleasing flavors at brunch buffets, family tables, and potlucks worldwide.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• One-Dish Simplicity: Assembly takes minutes, and cleanup is effortless.

• Layered Textures: Tender potato slices, melty cheese, and custardy eggs create contrast.

• Fresh Finish: Tomatoes, herbs, and tangy drizzle brighten each bite.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake early and reheat or serve at room temperature.

Health Benefits

• Potatoes: Supply potassium, vitamins C and B6, and resistant starch.

• Eggs: Provide complete protein, choline, and essential nutrients.

• Herbs: Parsley and dill deliver antioxidants and vitamins A and C.

• Yogurt: Offers probiotics for gut health and calcium for bone strength.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Spread: Pair with fresh fruit salad, avocado toast, and mimosas.

• Light Dinner: Serve alongside a crisp mixed-green salad with lemon vinaigrette.

• Vegetarian Feast: Offer with warm pita and hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping Parboil: Undercooked potatoes won’t finish tender in the bake.

• Overcrowding Dish: Use a dish large enough for an even single layer to ensure even cooking.

• Overwhisked Eggs: Whisk until just blended to avoid tough curds.

• Adding Drizzle Too Early: Wait until just before serving to prevent dilution of flavors.

Pairing Recommendations

• Wine: A crisp rosé or unoaked Chardonnay balances richness.

• Beer: A light lager or Belgian witbier complements the smokiness.

• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with cucumber or iced mint tea refreshes the palate.

Cooking Tips

• Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline for consistent potato thickness.

• Cheese Variations: Try goat cheese or feta for tangy notes.

• Smoky Depth: Increase smoked paprika to 1 tsp for bolder flavor.

• Veggie Add-Ins: Stir in sautéed spinach or mushrooms between layers.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Crustless Cheddar Broccoli Quiche

• Spanish Tortilla (Potato Omelet)

• Zucchini & Feta Egg Bake

Variations to Try

• Bacon Upgrade: Add 100 g cooked, crumbled bacon between layers.

• Spicy Kick: Drizzle sriracha into the yogurt-mustard sauce or sprinkle chili flakes on top.

• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with chickpea flour batter and use plant-based milk and yogurt.

• Herb-Forward: Mix fresh basil or chives into the egg mixture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Smoked Paprika
This vibrant red spice adds mild heat and a smoky depth, evoking flavors of Spanish chorizo and roasted peppers. A little goes a long way in transforming simple dishes with rich, aromatic color.

Conclusion

This Herbed Potato & Cheese Egg Bake with Creamy Yogurt-Mustard-Tomato Drizzle elevates pantry staples into a sophisticated yet comforting dish. Its layers of flavor, ease of preparation, and beautiful presentation make it an ideal choice for any meal occasion. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a versatile bake that’s sure to impress.

FAQ

1. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Yes—assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking; add 5 minutes to bake time.

2. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Warm in a 180 °C oven for 10 minutes or microwave individual portions.

3. Can I freeze portions?
   Freeze cooled slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat.

4. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
   Substitute sweet paprika and a pinch of cumin for a hint of earthiness.

5. Is the yogurt drizzle dairy-free?
   Use dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayo to adapt for lactose intolerance.

6. My potatoes are undercooked—why?
   Ensure parboiling water covers slices and cook until just tender.

7. Can I use red potatoes?
   Yes—any waxy potato works; adjust parboil time for slice thickness.

8. How do I make it spicier?
   Add chopped jalapeños to the egg mixture or mix hot sauce into the drizzle.

9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes—use a larger baking dish and extend bake time by 5–10 minutes.

10. What other toppings work well?
    Sliced olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast add variety.