
Simply Potatoes Sausage Scallop: A Chef’s Comfort Classic
I remember rainy Saturdays growing up, the kind where the world outside seemed to fade into a soft, gray watercolor. My grandmother, a woman who could coax magic from even the humblest ingredients, would always make a dish similar to this. The aroma of sausage browning with onions and potatoes, mingled with a creamy baked custard, would fill the entire house, chasing away the gloom and creating a sense of cozy contentment that I still crave to this day. This Sausage Scallop recipe reminds me of those moments – a simple, satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Yield: One 9×13 inch baking dish
- Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 (20 ounce) package Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion
- 1 (16 ounce) package sage pork sausage (or without sage)
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 3/4 cup flour
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl or jar with lid
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the base. In a large frying pan, sauté the sage pork sausage (or your preferred sausage) and Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion over medium heat. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the potatoes are slightly browned, usually about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to break up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks.
- While the sausage and potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the custard. In a large mixing bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the eggs, milk, and flour. Mix thoroughly with a whisk or shake vigorously if using a jar, ensuring there are no lumps. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.
- Transfer the cooked sausage and potato mixture into a 9×13 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan.
- Pour the egg, milk, and flour mixture evenly over the sausage and potatoes in the baking pan.
- Take a knife and poke holes throughout the mixture, ensuring the liquid custard can run down through the sausage and potatoes. This step is crucial for ensuring the scallop cooks evenly and the custard permeates the entire dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, the scallop is ready.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- For a richer flavor, consider browning the sausage in butter or olive oil.
- To avoid a soggy bottom, ensure the potatoes are well-drained after sautéing.
- If you’re short on time, you can assemble the scallop ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of sausage. Chorizo or Italian sausage would add a delicious twist.
- If you want to add a cheesy element, sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Sausage Scallop is best served warm, straight from the oven. It makes a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a more complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The scallop can also be frozen for longer storage. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 187.7 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | 59 g | 32% |
| Total Fat | 6.6 g | 10% |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g | 14% |
| Cholesterol | 150.2 mg | 50% |
| Sodium | 91.1 mg | 3% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 21.7 g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g | 2% |
| Sugars | 0.2 g | 0% |
| Protein | 9.6 g | 19% |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the sausage is also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of cow’s milk.
- Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the custard mixture for a little kick.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to enhance the flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use frozen potatoes instead of Simply Potatoes Diced Potatoes with Onion?
A: While you can use frozen potatoes, the Simply Potatoes version already includes onions, which saves you a step. If using plain frozen potatoes, add about 1/2 cup of chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time and bake it later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the scallop ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
Q: How do I know when the scallop is done?
A: The top should be golden brown and the custard should be set. Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the scallop is ready.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, the scallop can be frozen for longer storage. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this sausage scallop?
A: A simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or a crusty bread are all great options to serve alongside this dish.
Final Thoughts
This Simply Potatoes Sausage Scallop is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug, a comforting reminder of simple pleasures and shared moments. Its ease of preparation and the readily available ingredients make it a perfect weeknight meal, while its hearty flavor and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for weekend brunches. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be transported to a place of warmth and deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, adapt it to your own tastes, and share the joy of this simple yet satisfying dish with those you love. Bon appétit!