Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• Minced meat (pork, beef, or chicken): 400 g
• Onion: 1 large (finely diced)
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Pepper: To taste
• Dried herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano, or parsley): 1 teaspoon

For the Layers:

• Hard-boiled eggs: 2 (peeled and sliced)
• Potatoes: 2 medium-sized (peeled and thinly sliced)

For the Topping:

• Cheese: 100 g (shredded, preferably cheddar or mozzarella)
• Mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons

Preparation Time and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per Serving: Approx. 350 kcal

Estimated Nutritional Values (Per Serving):

• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Steps to Make Minced Meat and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook for 9-10 minutes, then transfer to cold water to cool. Peel and slice them.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 2-3 mm thick). This ensures they cook evenly in the oven.
3. Dice the Onion and Mince the Garlic: These will add a fragrant and flavorful base to the meat filling.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil.
2. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the minced meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with oil or butter.
2. Layer the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the cooked minced meat mixture over the potatoes, ensuring an even layer.
4. Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of the meat layer.
5. In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheese with the mayonnaise. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese topping is golden and bubbling.
4. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Minced Meat and Potato Casserole is a classic for several reasons. First, it’s made with everyday ingredients that are affordable and easy to find. The combination of meat, potatoes, and cheese creates a universally loved flavor profile that transcends cultural boundaries.

This casserole is also highly versatile. Whether you’re using pork, beef, or chicken, each type of meat adds a unique flavor, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. The hard-boiled eggs provide a retro charm reminiscent of old-school recipes, while the cheesy topping adds a modern twist.

Finally, this dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty enough for a casual family dinner but elegant enough to serve at gatherings. Its comforting nature makes it a dish that people of all ages will enjoy.

Tips for Success

1. Use Thin Potato Slices: This ensures the potatoes cook through during baking. A mandoline slicer works well for achieving uniform thickness.
2. Choose the Right Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also experiment with parmesan for a sharper flavor.
3. Season Generously: Since potatoes can absorb a lot of flavor, don’t skimp on seasoning the layers.
4. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to let the layers set and make serving easier.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration:

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing:

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Bake straight from the freezer, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory meat filling.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! Diced carrots, peas, or spinach can be added to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and color.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise for the topping?

You can substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

The Minced Meat and Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and timeless cooking traditions. This dish brings together the richness of minced meat, the creaminess of cheese, and the heartiness of potatoes to create a meal that satisfies the soul.

Its versatility makes it a go-to choice for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep. Whether you’re experimenting with different meats or customizing the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices, this casserole is endlessly adaptable.

As the cheese bubbles and browns in the oven, filling your kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, you’ll be reminded why casseroles have remained a beloved culinary tradition for generations. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that will become a staple in your home.

Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!