Few dishes are as comforting and universally beloved as a hearty casserole. Baked Meat and Potato Casserole with Tomato Sauce combines layers of tender potatoes, savory minced meat, rich tomato sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping into a meal that satisfies on every level. This dish is a celebration of simple, humble ingredients transformed into a comforting, flavorful meal through the magic of baking. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors—the creamy potatoes, juicy meat, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese come together in every mouthwatering bite.
This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to tradition. Variations of meat and potato bakes exist in cultures around the world, showcasing the versatility of these two staple ingredients. From shepherd’s pie to moussaka, the idea of layering potatoes with meat has stood the test of time. Its appeal lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its practicality. It’s easy to prepare, economical, and feeds a crowd, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for loved ones, this casserole is a timeless comfort food that never fails to deliver warmth and satisfaction.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 500 g potatoes (18 oz)
- 2 l water (68 pt)
- 30 g butter (1.1 oz)
- 10 g salt (0.4 oz)
- 5 g black pepper (0.2 oz)
- 25 g dill (0.9 oz), chopped
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 100 g tomato sauce (3.5 oz)
- 20 ml olive oil (0.7 fl oz)
- 5 g oregano (0.2 oz)
- 5 g salt (0.2 oz)
For the Meat Mixture:
- 600 g minced meat (21 oz)
- 2 onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 70 g bread crumbs (2.5 oz)
- 5 g black pepper (0.2 oz)
- 10 g salt (0.4 oz)
- 5 g garlic powder (0.2 oz)
- 5 g sweet paprika (0.2 oz)
For the Topping:
- 100 g cheese (3.5 oz), shredded
- 5 g dill (0.2 oz), chopped
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Steps to Make It
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes and slice them into even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
- In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add 10 g salt and the sliced potatoes. Boil for 8–10 minutes until the potatoes are just tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the potatoes with 30 g melted butter, black pepper, and chopped dill.
2. Make the Meat Mixture
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5 minutes until they are translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, minced meat, egg, bread crumbs, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and sweet paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- In a small saucepan, heat 20 ml olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large baking dish with oil or butter.
- Layer half of the potato slices on the bottom of the baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Spoon half of the tomato sauce over the meat layer. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meat, and tomato sauce.
5. Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top layer of tomato sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill for added flavor and color.
6. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
7. Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Casseroles have been a staple in kitchens around the world for decades, and for good reason. They are simple, economical, and incredibly satisfying. This Baked Meat and Potato Casserole is timeless because it combines classic, pantry-friendly ingredients into a cohesive, delicious meal that can be enjoyed by all. The balance of hearty potatoes, savory meat, and tangy tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese, creates a dish that is both comforting and nostalgic.
What makes this dish especially enduring is its adaptability. You can use different types of meat (like chicken or turkey), switch up the herbs and spices, or add vegetables like spinach or carrots to suit your taste. It’s a meal that can evolve with the seasons and your preferences, ensuring it never grows old.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb are great alternatives to beef or pork.
2. Can this casserole be made ahead?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Simply bake when you’re ready, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips for Making the Perfect Casserole
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes until just tender. Overcooking can make them fall apart during baking.
- Season Each Layer:
- Make sure to season the meat mixture, potatoes, and tomato sauce separately for a well-rounded flavor.
- Cheese Choice Matters:
- Use a cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend for a gooey, golden topping.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to let the layers set and make slicing easier.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezing:
- Freeze the casserole in individual portions or whole. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Baked Meat and Potato Casserole with Tomato Sauce is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its rich layers of tender potatoes, savory meat, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. This casserole embodies everything we love about home-cooked food: simplicity, flavor, and heart. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, special occasion, or simply to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this dish is a timeless treasure that you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!