This Savory Potato and Meat Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any family dinner. Layers of seasoned potatoes, flavorful minced meat, and a creamy cheese topping create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s simple to make, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500g potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 500g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 150g tomato sauce
- 250g mozzarella cheese, sliced or in balls
- 150g hard cheese, grated
- 3 chicken eggs
- 200 ml milk
- 70g flour
- 20g sour cream
- Vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Dried ground sweet paprika, to taste
- Dried ground oregano, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F).
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with vegetable oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano until well coated.
- Prepare Meat Mixture:
- Heat a little vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add the minced meat to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and remove from heat.
- Layer the Bake:
- In a baking dish, layer half of the seasoned potatoes. Top with half of the meat mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meat, and mozzarella cheese. Finish with a layer of grated hard cheese.
- Prepare Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, sour cream, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This will form a creamy mixture to pour over the dish.
- Bake:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve:
- Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. This will help the layers set, making it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a nice touch.
Cooking Tips:
- For a spicier version, add some chili flakes to the meat mixture.
- Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices.
- If you prefer a crustier top, broil the casserole for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This casserole provides a good balance of protein from the meat and cheese, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and essential vitamins from the vegetables.
Dietary Information:
- This dish contains dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free option, replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.
- The layers of flavors and textures make it a family favorite.
- It’s versatile – you can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Conclusion:
This Savory Potato and Meat Casserole is an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With its delicious layers and easy preparation, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the comforting flavors and share this delightful meal with your loved ones!