Armenian lavash, with its delicate texture and versatility, serves as the perfect foundation for this hearty casserole. Combining tender ground poultry, aromatic herbs, and melty mozzarella cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy sauce of sour cream and eggs binds the layers together, creating a golden, bubbling top that’s irresistible.

This recipe is inspired by classic layered casseroles but adds a modern twist with the use of Armenian lavash, a traditional flatbread known for its pliability and neutral flavor. The layers of lavash absorb the rich flavors of the filling and sauce, resulting in a casserole that’s moist, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner, a dish to impress guests, or a simple yet elegant meal for special occasions, this Armenian Lavash Casserole will not disappoint.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Casserole:

• Armenian lavash: 2 sheets (230 g)
• Ground chicken or turkey: 800 g
• Green onion (finely chopped): 100 g
• Parsley (finely chopped): 1 small bunch
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Ground black pepper: ⅓ tsp
• Sweet paprika: 1 tsp
• Dried garlic: 1 tsp
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 150 g

Sauce:

• Sour cream: 350 g
• Eggs: 3
• Salt: ⅓ tsp
• Ground black pepper: to taste
• Dried garlic: 1 tsp

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Servings

This recipe serves 6–8 people as a main course.

Steps to Prepare

1. Prepare the Meat Filling

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil if needed.
• Add the ground chicken or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until fully cooked and lightly browned.
• Season the meat with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and dried garlic. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
• Stir in the chopped green onions and parsley. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the herbs are fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream and eggs until smooth.
• Add salt, black pepper, and dried garlic. Whisk again to combine. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches).
• Cut the lavash sheets to fit the size of your baking dish. Reserve extra pieces to layer as needed.
• Place a sheet of lavash on the bottom of the dish, ensuring it covers the base completely.
• Spread a thin layer of the cooked meat mixture over the lavash. Sprinkle a portion of shredded mozzarella evenly over the meat.
• Repeat the layers: lavash, meat filling, mozzarella, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a lavash layer on top.

4. Add the Sauce

• Pour the prepared sour cream and egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Use a spatula to spread it out and ensure the sauce seeps into all corners and layers.

5. Bake the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

6. Cool and Serve

• Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The combination of lavash, meat, cheese, and creamy sauce has a universal appeal that transcends cultures. Lavash’s origins in Armenian cuisine bring a traditional touch, while the use of mozzarella and seasoned ground meat adds a contemporary flavor. This dish is versatile, easy to adapt, and perfect for busy families or special occasions. It is timeless because it merges comfort and tradition, creating a recipe that everyone can enjoy.

Tips for Making Perfect Armenian Lavash Casserole

1. Choose Fresh Lavash: Use fresh, pliable lavash to prevent cracking during assembly. Stale lavash can be softened by brushing with water.
2. Season to Taste: Adjust the spices in the meat filling to suit your preferences. Add chili flakes for heat or cumin for an earthy flavor.
3. Use Quality Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
4. Layer Evenly: Distribute the filling and sauce evenly for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
5. Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute lavash with another flatbread?
A: Yes, you can use tortillas or thin pita bread as a substitute if lavash is unavailable.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Replace the ground meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or finely chopped vegetables.

Q: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free tortillas or gluten-free lavash to adapt the recipe for those with dietary restrictions.

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: A fresh green salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or a tangy yogurt-based dipping sauce pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
• Meal Prep: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Armenian Lavash Casserole with Mozzarella and Ground Meat is a dish that blends simplicity, flavor, and tradition. The tender layers of lavash soak up the rich flavors of the seasoned meat and creamy sauce, while the melted mozzarella adds a touch of indulgence. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

The timelessness of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Whether you’re experimenting with fillings or customizing the seasoning to your taste, the dish remains versatile and satisfying. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible to cooks of all levels, while its flavor profile ensures it will be a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this comforting and delicious casserole. With its harmonious flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.