2. Prepare the Vegetables
- While the potatoes are cooling, prep the vegetables: wash, chop, and set aside.
- If using leeks, clean them well (they trap dirt), then slice thin.
- Dice any optional veggies (like zucchini or bell pepper) into small pieces.
3. Mix the Egg Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk (or cream).
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Stir in half of the shredded cheese. This gives the bake a lovely creamy texture.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a medium baking dish (8×10 or 9×13 inches) with butter or oil.
- Start by layering the sliced potatoes across the bottom of the dish.
- Scatter the chopped leeks (or green onions), bell peppers, and other veggies on top of the potatoes.
- Pour the egg-cheese mixture evenly over the veggies and potatoes.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top — this adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over everything. Add a bit of grated Parmesan if you want a golden crust.
5. Bake
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes.
- It’s ready when the center is set (you can test with a knife — it should come out clean) and the top is golden brown and bubbling.
6. Rest and Garnish
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets up beautifully.
- Sprinkle with chopped chives, green onions, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
📝 Tips & Variations:
- Add protein: Stir in chopped cooked bacon, ham, or sausage with the veggie layer.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce in the egg mixture.
- Low-carb swap: Replace potatoes with cauliflower slices or a mix of cauliflower and zucchini.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and bake the next day.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Serve warm with a side salad for a complete meal.
- It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully and make a satisfying breakfast or lunch the next day.
Let me know if you want a Hungarian twist, like using túró (cottage cheese) or adding sweet paprika to give it that authentic flavor. 🇭🇺 Or if you’d like to turn this into a video or blog post, I can help you write the intro or record a script for it too!