This Italian-Inspired Layered Egg, Meat & Potato Bake combines the comfort of a quiche, the heartiness of a meat casserole, and the simplicity of roasted potatoes into one impressive dish. A base of lightly seasoned roasted potato slices provides a golden, crispy foundation. Above it lies a tender layer of spiced ground meat sautéed with onion, garlic, and bell pepper, then enriched with sweet paprika and chili for depth. A creamy custard of eggs, yogurt, Italian herbs, and white pepper binds the layers and bakes into a fluffy, soufflé-like texture. The finale features a blanket of melted cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a scattering of blistered cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and acidity. Every forkful delivers contrasting textures—crisp potato edges, juicy meat, pillowy egg custard, and gooey cheese—balanced by the bright sweetness of tomatoes and the earthiness of Italian herbs.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 25 minutes (chopping, seasoning, layering)
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Roast & Sauté Time: 40 minutes (roasting potatoes, cooking meat)
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Bake Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generously as a main course.
Cuisine
Modern Italian Fusion
Full List of Ingredients
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5–6 medium potatoes (≈800 g), peeled and sliced ½ cm thick
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2 tbsp olive oil, divided
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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500 g ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 large red onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 raw sweet bell pepper, diced
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1 tsp sweet paprika powder
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½ tsp chili powder (adjust to heat preference)
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1 tsp salt, plus more for potatoes
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½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
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4 large eggs
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4 tbsp plain yogurt
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1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
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¼ tsp white pepper
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1 tbsp unsalted butter
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50 g hard cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino), grated
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5–6 cherry tomatoes, halved
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A handful fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Preheat your oven to 190 °C (375 °F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Toss the potato slices with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Arrange in a single layer on the sheet. Roast 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender. Remove and set aside.
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While potatoes roast, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Increase heat to medium-high, add ground meat, breaking up lumps. Season with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook 7–10 minutes until meat is browned and liquids evaporate. Stir in diced pepper and cook 3 more minutes. Remove from heat.
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In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, yogurt, Italian herbs, white pepper, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
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Reduce oven temperature to 180 °C (350 °F). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the roasted potatoes to cover the bottom. Spread the meat mixture evenly over potatoes. Top with remaining potato slices.
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Pour the egg–yogurt mixture over the layered potatoes and meat, tilting the dish gently to ensure even coverage. Dot the surface with butter pieces.
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Sprinkle grated hard cheese evenly atop the custard. Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until the custard is just set and cheese is golden.
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In the last 5 minutes of baking, arrange the cherry tomato halves on top to roast gently.
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Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving; approximate)
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Calories: 410 kcal
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Protein: 24 g
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Carbohydrates: 30 g
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Fat: 20 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sodium: 580 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
While reminiscent of Italian casseroles and frittatas, this layered bake adapts homey ingredients—roasted potatoes, seasoned meat, and egg custard—into a single dish. Similar to a strata or lasagna without pasta, it showcases how versatile Italian herbs and simple dairy binders can elevate everyday produce into a celebratory meal.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
• All-in-One: Protein, starch, and vegetables unite in one pan.
• Flavor Depth: Paprika and chili add warmth, Italian herbs impart aroma.
• Textural Contrast: Crispy roasted edges meet tender, creamy interiors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare layers in advance; bake just before serving.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for weeknights.
Health Benefits
This bake provides lean protein from meat and eggs, complex carbohydrates from potatoes, probiotics from yogurt, and antioxidants from garlic, onion, and herbs. Light on added fats—only olive and vegetable oils—it balances richness with nutritional value.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil.
• Offer a dollop of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt on the side.
• Pair with steamed seasonal vegetables or grilled asparagus.
• Accompany with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light beer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Under-roasted potatoes: Ensure slices are tender and lightly brown before layering.
• Overcooking custard: Remove at the first sign of a jiggle in the center to prevent dryness.
• Crowding the pan: Allow space between potato slices for even roasting.
Pairing Recommendations
• Wine: A medium-bodied Chianti or Barbera complements savory herbs and meat.
• Beer: A crisp lager or amber ale stands up to the rich custard.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or herbal iced tea refreshes the palate.
Cooking Tips
• Use leftover roasted potatoes or cooked meat to save time.
• For extra richness, swirl in a spoonful of cream before baking.
• Garnish with chopped fresh basil or oregano for bright herb flavor.
Variations to Try
• Vegetarian: Replace meat with sautéed eggplant and mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeño to the custard.
• Cheese Swap: Use shredded mozzarella or Gruyère instead of Parmesan.
Similar Recipes to Try
• Greek Moussaka with layers of eggplant and béchamel.
• Spanish Tortilla Española (potato omelette).
• Italian Parmigiana di Patate (potato gratin with tomato sauce).
Ingredient Spotlight
Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds Mediterranean warmth and aromatic complexity to egg-based dishes, enhancing both flavor and fragrance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes—slice thinly and roast until tender, but flavor and color will vary. -
How do I know when custard is set?
The center should no longer jiggle; a knife inserted near the center should come out clean. -
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat covered at 170 °C for 15 minutes. -
What if I don’t have yogurt?
Substitute equal parts milk or cream, adjusting for slightly looser custard. -
Can I bake in individual ramekins?
Yes—reduce bake time to 20 minutes and adjust portion sizes accordingly.
Conclusion
This Italian-Inspired Layered Egg, Meat & Potato Bake is an all-in-one masterpiece that brings together simple ingredients into a harmonious, flavor-rich meal. Perfect for gatherings or quiet family dinners, it delivers comfort, versatility, and visual appeal in every golden slice. Enjoy cooking and savoring this effortless yet elegant casserole!