This recipe combines tender potato dumplings filled with flavorful minced meat and vegetables, baked until golden with a cheesy crust, and served alongside a refreshing cucumber salad. It’s a fantastic dish that offers both richness and freshness.
Cooking Time
- Prep time: Approximately 45 minutes
- Cook time: Approximately 45 minutes (20 minutes for potatoes, 5 minutes for vegetables, 25 minutes for baking dumplings)
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dumplings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 300 g ground beef
- 5–7 medium-sized potatoes (approximately 1 kg), peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt (for the potatoes)
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4–5 mushrooms, diced
- 30 g butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder (sweet)
- 100 g grated cheese (e.g., Gouda or Mozzarella)
For the Cucumber Salad:
- 3–4 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 100 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Brown the Ground Beef: * Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. * Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until it’s nicely browned. * Remove the cooked ground beef from the pan and set it aside in a bowl.
2. Cook the Potatoes: * Place the diced potatoes into the same pan you used for the beef. * Pour in enough water to just cover the potatoes. * Add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: * While the potatoes are cooking, heat a little oil in a second pan. * Add the diced bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and get some color. * Set the sautéed vegetables aside.
4. Mash the Potatoes: * Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the pan (or a large mixing bowl). * Add the 30 g butter, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh parsley to the hot potatoes. * Mash the potatoes until they form a smooth purée. A few small lumps are fine if you prefer a more rustic texture.
5. Season the Potato Dough: * Stir the tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and paprika powder into the mashed potato mixture. Mix everything well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
6. Form and Fill the Dumplings: * Take a portion of the seasoned potato dough and form it into a ball, about 6 cm (approximately 2.5 inches) in diameter. * Gently flatten the potato ball in your palm to create a disc. * Place a small spoonful of the cooked ground beef (from step 1) in the center of the flattened potato disc. * Carefully bring the edges of the potato dough together over the filling, enclosing the meat completely. * Gently reshape the dough into a smooth, round ball. Ensure the filling is completely sealed inside. Repeat this process with the remaining potato dough and ground beef.
7. Bake the Dumplings: * Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) for conventional oven heating (Ober-/Unterhitze). * Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. * Arrange the formed potato dumplings on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. * Sprinkle the tops of the dumplings generously with the grated cheese. * Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
8. Prepare the Cucumber Salad: * While the dumplings are baking, prepare the salad. In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped onion, and chopped fresh dill. * Season with salt and pepper to taste. * Add a tablespoon of sour cream and gently mix everything together. Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
9. Serve: * Once the dumplings are golden brown and cooked, carefully remove them from the oven. * Serve the hot Baked Minced Meat and Potato Dumplings immediately alongside the fresh and tangy Cucumber Salad.
Nutritional Information
Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and precise measurements. The following is an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings for the dish):
- Calories: Approximately 600-750 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 30-40 g
- Fats: Approximately 35-45 g (Saturated Fat: 15-20 g)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-55 g (Fiber: 5-7 g, Sugars: 5-8 g)
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 mg
This dish is quite hearty, providing a substantial amount of energy, protein, and carbohydrates. The cucumber salad adds a refreshing, low-calorie element with vitamins and fiber.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This recipe for Überbackene Hack-Kartoffelklöße draws inspiration from traditional German and Central European comfort food. Potato dumplings, or “Klöße” (or “Knödel” in some regions), are a staple in German cuisine, often served with roasts, gravies, or goulash. They can be made from raw potatoes, cooked potatoes, or a mixture, and vary widely in size and preparation method.
The concept of combining a starchy base (like potatoes) with a savory meat filling is common across many cultures (think shepherd’s pie or even some forms of pierogi or pelmeni). Overbaking with cheese (“überbacken”) is a popular finishing touch in German cooking, adding a delicious crust and melty texture to casseroles and gratin dishes.
While there might not be one single historical origin for this exact dish, it embodies the essence of traditional German home cooking: using readily available, hearty ingredients to create a satisfying and flavorful meal, often prepared to warm and nourish during colder months. Its popularity stems from its comforting nature, the familiar taste of potatoes and meat, and the delicious cheesy topping that appeals to many.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort. The soft, savory potato dumplings and the rich, cheesy topping create a truly satisfying and warming meal, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and herbs creates a deeply flavorful filling that perfectly complements the mild potato dough. It’s a meal that genuinely fills you up.
- Texture Heaven: You get a fantastic interplay of textures: the crispy, golden cheese on top, the tender potato dumpling, the juicy ground beef filling, and the refreshing crunch of the cucumber salad.
- Family-Friendly: This is a dish that appeals to almost everyone, from kids to adults. The familiar flavors of potatoes and meat are usually a hit, and the ability to customize seasoning makes it adaptable to different palates.
- Complete Meal: With the protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, vegetables in the filling and salad, and healthy fats, this recipe offers a well-rounded and complete meal in one go.
- Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the ground beef filling and even the potato dough ahead of time, assembling and baking just before serving. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights.
Health Benefits
While this is a hearty comfort food, it still offers several nutritional benefits:
- Potatoes: A good source of potassium (important for blood pressure control), Vitamin C (an antioxidant), and dietary fiber (especially if eaten with the skin on, though peeled in this recipe, it still contains some). They provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Ground Beef: An excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building and repair. It also provides important iron (for oxygen transport) and Vitamin B12 (for nerve function and red blood cell formation).
- Vegetables (Onion, Bell Pepper, Mushrooms): These contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Bell peppers are particularly rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Mushrooms offer B vitamins and selenium.
- Cucumber: Primarily water, making it very hydrating and low in calories. It also provides Vitamin K and some antioxidants.
- Dill and Parsley: Fresh herbs are packed with vitamins (like Vitamin K and C) and antioxidants, adding flavor without significant calories.
- Olive Oil: A source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy.
To enhance the health profile, you could opt for lean ground beef, reduce the amount of cheese or butter slightly, and ensure a generous portion of the fresh cucumber salad with each serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairing: The cucumber salad is the perfect counterpoint to the rich dumplings, offering a tangy and fresh element. Don’t skip it!
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also work well if you prefer an alternative to the cucumber salad.
- Sauce: While not strictly necessary, a side of creamy mushroom sauce, a rich brown gravy, or even a dollop of sour cream (in addition to the salad) can complement the dumplings.
- Beer or Wine: For adults, a crisp German lager or a light-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir would pair nicely with the richness of the dish.
- Fresh Bread: Some crusty bread on the side is great for soaking up any juices or just enjoying with the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mashing potatoes: While you want a smooth purée, don’t over-mash or use an electric mixer, as this can break down the starch too much and result in gummy, glue-like dumplings. A hand masher is best.
- Not draining potatoes thoroughly: Excess water in the mashed potatoes will make your dough too sticky and hard to handle, and the dumplings won’t hold their shape well.
- Under-seasoning the potato dough: The potato dough itself needs to be well-seasoned, not just the filling. Taste it before forming the dumplings and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Over-filling the dumplings: Too much filling will make it difficult to seal the dumplings properly, and they might burst during baking.
- Not sealing the dumplings properly: Ensure the seams are completely closed and smooth to prevent the filling from escaping.
- Baking at too high a temperature: While you want the cheese to brown, baking too hot can cause the outside to burn before the inside is heated through. Stick to the recommended temperature.
Pairing Recommendations
- For Beverages:
- German Lager/Pilsner: The crispness and slight bitterness of a good German beer cut through the richness of the cheese and meat beautifully.
- White Wine: A dry Riesling or a Grüner Veltliner with good acidity would offer a refreshing contrast.
- Red Wine: A light-to-medium-bodied red like a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais could also work, complementing the earthy tones without overpowering the dish.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, the bubbles and citrus cleanse the palate.
- For Dessert: Keep dessert light after this hearty meal. Perhaps a simple fruit salad, some baked apples, or a light sorbet.
- Side Dish: The cucumber salad is essential for balance. Consider adding a side of pickled beets or sauerkraut for an authentic German touch and an extra tangy kick.
Cooking Tips
- Potatoes: Using starchy potatoes like Russet (Baking Potatoes) or Yukon Golds will yield a creamier, easier-to-mash texture.
- Chilling the Potato Dough (Optional): If your potato dough feels too soft or sticky to work with, cover it and chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This will make it firmer and easier to handle.
- Uniform Dumpling Size: Try to make your dumplings a similar size so they bake evenly.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: Don’t skimp on the fresh dill and parsley. They add a vibrant, fresh flavor that really elevates both the dumplings and the salad.
- Cheese Choice: While Gouda or Mozzarella are recommended, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Emmental, Cheddar, or even a blend for more complex flavor.
- Prepare Ahead: You can cook the ground beef and sauté the vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also mash and season the potatoes ahead of time. This will significantly reduce your active cooking time on the day you plan to serve.
- Freezing Unbaked Dumplings: You can freeze the formed (but unbaked) dumplings. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, or until golden and heated through.
Similar Recipes to Try
- Shepherd’s Pie (or Cottage Pie): A classic British dish with a savory ground meat and vegetable filling topped with mashed potatoes and baked.
- Kartoffelpuffer (Potato Pancakes): Crispy fried potato pancakes, often served with savory or sweet toppings, a staple in German cuisine.
- Königsberger Klopse: German meatballs in a creamy caper sauce, traditionally served with boiled potatoes.
- Goulash with Spaetzle: A rich Hungarian beef stew often served with soft German egg noodles.
- Pierogi (Potato and Cheese): Polish dumplings filled with mashed potatoes and cheese, often served with sour cream and fried onions.
Variations to Try
Feel free to put your own spin on this classic!
- Meat Variations:
- Use a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor.
- For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Add finely diced carrots, celery, or leeks to the ground beef mixture for more vegetables and flavor.
- A handful of frozen peas or corn can be stirred into the ground beef filling after it’s cooked.
- Herb and Spice Adjustments:
- Substitute or add other herbs like marjoram, thyme, or rosemary to the potato dough or meat filling.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat filling for a touch of heat.
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the ground beef can add depth.
- Cheese Alternatives:
- Try a sharper cheddar, tangy Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for the topping.
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked Gouda.
- Sauce on Top (before cheese):
- Before adding the cheese, you could pour a thin layer of tomato sauce or a simple béchamel sauce over the dumplings for extra moisture and flavor.
- Salad Variations:
- Instead of sour cream, dress the cucumber salad with a vinegar and oil dressing (e.g., apple cider vinegar and olive oil) for a brighter taste.
- Add a touch of garlic to the cucumber salad.
- Include other fresh vegetables like radishes or thinly sliced bell peppers in the salad.
Ingredient Spotlight: Paprika Powder (Edelsüß)
“Edelsüß” in German translates to “noble sweet” and refers to a specific type of paprika powder that is widely used in German and Hungarian cuisine. It’s made from finely ground, ripe, sweet red peppers, and it’s characterized by its vibrant red color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor with no heat.
Unlike hot paprika or smoked paprika, edelsüß paprika is primarily used for its color and aromatic properties, adding a gentle warmth and sweetness without overwhelming other flavors. It’s a staple in dishes like goulash, chicken paprikash, and of course, in this dumpling recipe, where it contributes to the overall savory and comforting profile of the ground beef and potato. Always ensure your spices are fresh for the best flavor; dried herbs and spices lose potency over time.
Conclusion
Überbackene Hack-Kartoffelklöße mit Gurkensalat is a testament to the comforting and hearty nature of German cuisine. This dish masterfully combines the familiar appeal of tender potato dumplings, a savory minced meat filling, and a delightful cheesy crust, all beautifully balanced by the refreshing tang of a simple cucumber salad. It’s a meal that speaks of home, warmth, and culinary tradition. While the preparation involves a few steps, each one is straightforward and contributes to a truly satisfying result. Whether you’re seeking a new family favorite or simply craving a taste of European comfort, this recipe offers a delicious and rewarding cooking experience. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful meal!