Bacon and Sausage Stuffed Potato Loaf: A Hearty and Savory Delight:
Introduction:
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Bacon and Sausage Stuffed Potato Loaf. Featuring a crispy potato crust stuffed with a savory mix of sausage, crispy bacon, cheese, and seasonings, this loaf is perfect as a show-stopping dinner centerpiece or a hearty brunch dish.
Ingredients:
For the Potato Crust
- 4 cups grated potatoes (about 3-4 medium-sized potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces ground sausage
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Preparation Tips:
- Drain the Potatoes Well: Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes to ensure a crispy crust.
- Pre-Cook the Filling: Sauté the sausage and onions before stuffing the loaf for optimal flavor.
- Layer Evenly: Spread the potato crust evenly to avoid any uneven cooking.
- Use a Nonstick Pan: Line with parchment paper to make removing the loaf easier.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- In a bowl, mix the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of the prepared loaf pan, forming a crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, paprika, thyme, and beaten eggs. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Loaf
- Spoon the filling into the potato-lined loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Press down gently to compact the filling.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potato crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan. Slice and serve warm.
Description:
This Bacon and Sausage Stuffed Potato Loaf combines the savory flavors of sausage and bacon with the cheesy goodness of a crispy potato crust. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
Recommendations:
- Pair with a Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Add Spice: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the loaf in advance and bake just before serving for convenience.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing Option: Freeze uncooked or cooked portions in individual servings for quick meals.
Conclusion:
This Bacon and Sausage Stuffed Potato Loaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy potatoes with a rich, savory filling. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy every appetite. Try it today for a hearty, flavorful feast!