Creamy Potato and Broccoli Ricotta Bake
Indulge in this delightful Creamy Potato and Broccoli Ricotta Bake, where velvety mashed potatoes meet vibrant broccoli and rich ricotta cheese, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or as a special dish to share with friends and family. With its creamy texture and a hint of savory flavor, it's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Serve it warm and enjoy a satisfying meal packed with nutrients.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pie shell
1 (9-inch, prepared)
Broccoli florets
2 (cups, blanched)
Mashed potatoes
2 (cups, prepared)
Ricotta cheese
1 (cup, part-skim)
Sour cream
1/2 (cup)
Scallions
1/2 (cup, sliced)
Eggs
2 (large)
Salt
1 (teaspoon)
Black pepper
1/4 (teaspoon)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 (cup, freshly grated)
Paprika
to taste (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.
3
Carefully add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for about 3 minutes, just until they turn bright green and become slightly tender.
4
Drain the broccoli and immediately rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, mashed potatoes, ricotta cheese, sour cream, sliced scallions, eggs, salt, and pepper.
6
Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed, being careful not to break the broccoli into small pieces.
7
Pour the creamy filling into the prepared pie shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika over the top for added flavor and color.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Potato and Broccoli Ricotta Bake?
It is a savory pie featuring a blend of mashed potatoes, broccoli, and ricotta cheese baked in a flaky pie crust.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the recipe is completely vegetarian as it contains no meat or meat-based products.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the dish need to bake?
The bake time is approximately 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Do I need to cook the broccoli before adding it to the filling?
Yes, you should blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
Why should I rinse the broccoli with cool water?
Rinsing with cool water stops the cooking process immediately, preventing the broccoli from becoming mushy.
What size pie shell is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a 9-inch prepared pie shell.
Can I use full-fat ricotta instead of part-skim?
Yes, you can use full-fat ricotta for a richer and creamier texture in the filling.
What is the role of the eggs in the filling?
The eggs act as a binding agent that helps the creamy filling set and hold its shape after baking.
Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What kind of potatoes are best for this bake?
Any mashed potatoes will work, though Yukon Gold or Russets are preferred for their creamy consistency.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
While it is a vegetarian dish, you can certainly add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken if desired.
How do I keep the broccoli pieces from breaking?
Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula rather than mixing vigorously.
What toppings are added before baking?
The top is garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika.
Do I need to let the dish cool before slicing?
Yes, let it cool for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to firm up for easier serving.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely, this recipe is a perfect way to repurpose 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes.
What can I use if I do not have scallions?
You can substitute scallions with finely chopped chives, leeks, or mild white onions.
How do I know when the bake is ready to come out of the oven?
The bake is finished when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the center feels set.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you would need to use vegan substitutes for the ricotta, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese.
How much broccoli do I need?
You will need 2 cups of blanched broccoli florets for the filling.
Should the pie shell be pre-baked?
The recipe uses a 9-inch prepared pie shell that bakes along with the filling for 60 minutes.
Can I add garlic to the filling?
Yes, minced garlic would be a great addition to enhance the savory flavor of the potato mixture.
How should I store leftover portions?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat the bake?
Reheat slices in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven until warm, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Can I swap the broccoli for other greens?
Yes, you can substitute the broccoli with cooked spinach, kale, or even cauliflower florets.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The filling is generally gluten-free, but you must use a certified gluten-free pie shell to make the whole dish gluten-free.
How much ricotta cheese is used?
The recipe requires 1 cup of ricotta cheese.
Does the paprika make the dish spicy?
No, paprika is used primarily for color and a subtle earthy flavor rather than heat.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can mix the filling ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
What is the final texture of the dish?
The final product has a velvety, creamy interior with tender broccoli pieces and a golden cheese topping.