Potato - Tomato Bake
Creamy scalloped potato bake with tomato sauce and green peppers, topped with crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, blend the dry sauce mix from the packaged potato mix with the tomato sauce.
- Add water and chopped green pepper to the saucepan.
- Heat the sauce mixture to boiling, then add dried potatoes and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and heated through.
- Sprinkle canned French fried onions over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 3 minutes, or until onions are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the green pepper with chopped onions or mushrooms if desired. To enhance the flavor, try adding herbs like oregano or basil. If using fresh potatoes, parboil them for about 5 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Potato - Tomato Bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad, such as Yellow Cabbage Salad For Large Group, or a protein like Sweet 'N Spicy Barbecued Chicken. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavors. It's also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato - Tomato Bake contains roughly 434 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned sauce?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you'll need about 2 cups diced tomatoes. Cook them down with some herbs and spices to create a sauce-like consistency before mixing with the dry potato mix.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Potato - Tomato Bake is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. For a vegan version, ensure that the dry scalloped potato mix is dairy-free and substitute the French fried onions with a homemade or vegan alternative.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).