This recipe combines tender, thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, flavorful meat sauce and a creamy, velvety sauce, all sealed under a gooey layer of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. The layers of potatoes soak up the savory meat sauce and creamy sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s irresistible. Whether you use beef or chicken, this dish will be a hit at your table.

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 300g Beef (or chicken as an alternative): Adds a rich, meaty flavor to the dish. Chicken provides a lighter option if preferred.
• 180g Onion, finely chopped (about 1 medium onion): Gives the sauce a sweet, aromatic base.
• 18g Minced Garlic (1 tbsp): Enhances the flavor with its bold, pungent taste.
• 20g Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich flavor to the meat sauce.
• 6g Chili Powder (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle heat that complements the tomato and meat flavors.
• 120g Tomato Pasta Sauce (7 tbsp): Provides a tangy, rich tomato flavor that binds the sauce together.
• 200g Chopped Tomatoes: Adds texture and freshness to the sauce.
• Black Pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of spice.
• 300ml Water or Vegetable Broth: Helps to thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.

For the Cream Sauce:

• 30g Unsalted Butter: Adds a rich, creamy base to the sauce.
• 300ml Milk: Creates a smooth, creamy texture when combined with the butter and flour.
• 15g Wheat Flour (1.5 tbsp): Acts as a thickening agent for the cream sauce.
• 1.5g Salt (3 pinches): Enhances the flavors in the cream sauce.

Other Ingredients:

• 400g Potatoes, sliced into thin rounds (2-3 medium potatoes): The base of the dish, these potatoes soak up the flavors of the meat and cream sauces.
• 280g Mozzarella Cheese, shredded: Creates a gooey, melted layer on top that seals in all the flavors.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef (or chicken) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
   • Stir in the chili powder, tomato pasta sauce, chopped tomatoes, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
   • Pour in the water or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
   • In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
   • Once melted, stir in the wheat flour, mixing well to form a smooth paste (roux).
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
   • Season with salt to taste, and set the sauce aside.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
   • In a baking dish, arrange a layer of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom.
   • Spoon half of the meat sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
   • Pour half of the cream sauce over the meat sauce, spreading it out to cover the meat.
   • Add another layer of potatoes on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce and cream sauce.
   • Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake the Dish:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, the cheese is melted and golden, and the dish is bubbly.
   • Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Scoop out portions of this delicious potato dish and serve hot. The layers of potatoes, meat sauce, and cream sauce, all sealed under a gooey layer of cheese, create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Cooking Tips:

• Use a Mandoline for Thin Potato Slices: To ensure even cooking, slice your potatoes thinly and evenly using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
• Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready to serve, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Customize the Meat: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian meat substitute if you prefer.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

Possible Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or a combination for added flavor.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Absolutely! Substitute the meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative or simply add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

This potato dish, sealed with cheese and bursting with flavor from the meat and cream sauces, is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare, economical, and perfect for satisfying hungry appetites. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a comforting meal to enjoy on a cozy night in, this dish delivers. The combination of tender potatoes, savory meat sauce, and creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.