Better Than Pizza

 Better Than Pizza! Easy & Budget-Friendly Grated Potato Bake

Introduction

Craving comfort food without the hassle or expense of takeout? Look no further than this Grated Potato Bake—a dish so satisfying it might just replace your pizza night! With crispy edges, a creamy interior, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe combines simple, affordable ingredients into one irresistible dish.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for an impressive side dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and loaded with flavor from fresh vegetables, eggs, and cheese. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your taste!

Get ready to discover why this potato bake has everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients (and Why They Work)

Vegetables:

4 medium potatoes, grated – The base of the dish, providing a hearty and starchy foundation that binds the ingredients together.

1 carrot, grated – Adds a hint of sweetness and boosts the nutritional value with vitamins and fiber.

1 bell pepper, chopped – Delivers a pop of color and mild, sweet flavor for contrast.

2-3 spring onions, chopped – Brings a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish, adding freshness.

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

3 eggs, beaten – Work as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and giving the bake a light, fluffy texture.

1 glass of milk (about 200 ml) – Adds moisture and richness, making the batter smooth and creamy.

200 g flour (about 1 2/3 cups) – Creates a structure for the bake, keeping it firm yet tender.

1 teaspoon baking powder – Provides a bit of rise, ensuring the bake isn’t too dense.

Seasonings and Cheese:

Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing flavors and balancing sweetness from the veggies.

Cheese (as much as you like) – Melts into the batter for a rich, gooey finish. Use cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for stretchiness, or a blend for variety.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

Wash and peel the potatoes and carrot.

Grate the potatoes and carrot into a large bowl.

Chop the spring onions and bell pepper into small pieces.

Tip: Squeeze excess moisture out of the grated potatoes with a clean kitchen towel to avoid a soggy bake.

2. Make the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.

Add the milk, followed by the flour and baking powder. Stir until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

Fold the grated potatoes, carrot, bell pepper, and spring onions into the batter.

Stir in salt and pepper to taste.

Add half of the cheese into the mixture, saving the rest for the topping.

4. Assemble and Bake:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Top with the remaining cheese, ensuring an even layer for a crispy, golden crust.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm.

5. Cool and Serve:

Allow the bake to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.

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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

1. Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples and affordable vegetables, it’s perfect for saving money without sacrificing flavor.

2. Quick and Easy: Simple prep and minimal cleanup make it ideal for busy weeknights.

3. Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding bacon, ham, mushrooms, or spinach.

4. Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, crispy texture that rivals pizza!

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Pro Tips for Success

Grate and Drain: Always squeeze out excess water from grated potatoes to prevent a watery bake.

Even Layers: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish for consistent cooking.

Extra Crispy Topping: Brush the top with olive oil or melted butter before baking to achieve a golden crust.

Make it Ahead: Prep the mixture in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh the next day.

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Serving Suggestions

Main Dish: Pair it with a fresh garden salad and a dollop of sour cream for a balanced meal.

Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or soup.

Snack or Appetizer: Cut into small squares for an easy grab-and-go treat during parties.

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Conclusion

This Grated Potato Bake is so versatile and delicious that it’s bound to become a household favorite. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all while being budget-friendly and easy to make.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for something new to try, this dish delivers comfort food at its best. Give it a try

 and see why so many people say it’s better than pizza!

Ready to make this delicious bake? Save this recipe and share it with your friends today!