This hearty and flavorful Baked Meat and Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that combines minced meat, vegetables, and cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy family dinner.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
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Cuisine: Comfort food (Perfect for a family dinner)
Full List of Ingredients
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600g minced meat
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Salt, black pepper, sweet paprika (to taste)
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1 egg
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2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
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Fresh parsley (to taste)
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Butter (for greasing)
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1 onion (finely chopped)
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1 carrot (grated)
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1 clove garlic (minced)
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5 potatoes (peeled and sliced)
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Italian herb blend (to taste)
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Olive oil (for drizzling)
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4 tablespoons sour cream
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Fresh dill (to taste)
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5 mushrooms (sliced)
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50g cheese (grated)
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1 tomato (sliced)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 600g minced meat, salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs. Add fresh parsley to the mixture, and mix well until everything is evenly combined. -
Cook the Vegetables
Heat some butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent. Add the grated carrot and minced garlic to the onions, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften. -
Layer the Dish
Grease a baking dish with butter. Start by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian herb blend. Drizzle with a little olive oil. -
Add the Meat Layer
Spread the prepared minced meat mixture evenly over the potatoes. Press it down gently to create an even layer. -
Add the Vegetables
Spread the sautéed onions, carrots, and garlic mixture over the meat layer. Add the sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. -
Add the Final Layer
Slice the tomato and place the slices on top of the vegetable layer. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh dill for extra flavor. -
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. -
Bake the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the casserole for 50 minutes. After 50 minutes, reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it hot with your favorite side dish or as a standalone meal!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 350
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Fat: 18g
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Protein: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugars: 6g
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Sodium: 350mg
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish is a comforting and hearty casserole, popular in many households as a filling dinner. While casseroles like this one aren’t tied to one specific country, they are a staple in many European and North American homes. The combination of meat, vegetables, and cheese makes it a satisfying and versatile dish, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is the perfect meal to satisfy hunger and keep you warm.
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Versatile: You can easily substitute the vegetables or protein to match your preferences or dietary needs.
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Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this casserole is sure to be loved by everyone, from kids to adults.
Health Benefits
This casserole provides a good amount of protein from the minced meat and a healthy dose of fiber from the vegetables, especially the potatoes and carrots. The addition of mushrooms and parsley boosts its nutritional content, providing antioxidants and vitamins. However, because of the cheese and butter, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
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Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a light, fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a comforting and complete meal.
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Pickled Vegetables: Add some tangy pickled vegetables to cut through the richness of the casserole.
Cooking Tips
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Slice the Potatoes Thinly: Thin potato slices will cook more evenly and ensure the casserole has a tender texture.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add a bright, aromatic flavor to the dish, so use them generously for a fresh touch.
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Make It Ahead of Time: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked when needed. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian Version: Swap the minced meat for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
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Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
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Use Different Cheese: Try adding mozzarella, cheddar, or even goat cheese for different flavors.
Conclusion
This Baked Meat and Potato Casserole is a hearty, flavorful meal that will satisfy the whole family. With layers of tender potatoes, savory meat, and vegetables, all topped with melted cheese, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this casserole is sure to please.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the minced meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even beef in place of the minced meat for a different flavor.
6. Can I skip the sour cream?
Yes, you can skip the sour cream or replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
7. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, feel free to use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
8. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture for some extra heat.
9. How can I make the casserole more crispy on top?
For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 5 minutes of baking.
10. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the sour cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or vegan cheese.