This Beef and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Layers of tender potatoes, flavorful minced beef, and melted mozzarella come together in this savory casserole, making it an easy yet satisfying meal. Baked to perfection, the combination of ground beef, garlic, onion, and paprika creates a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken eggs
- 100 g (⅓ cup) sour cream
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 800 g (5-6 medium) potatoes, peeled and sliced
- Some vegetable oil for frying
- 700 g (1 ½ lbs) minced beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 300 g (1 ½ cups) tomatoes in their own juice
- 150 g (1 ½ cups) hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried ground sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
- Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the sliced potatoes until lightly golden, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
- In another pan, heat a little vegetable oil and cook the minced beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes in their own juice and paprika to the beef mixture. Simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- In a large casserole dish, layer the cooked potatoes, followed by the beef mixture.
- Beat the eggs and mix them with sour cream, seasoning with salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra creaminess, use a mixture of sour cream and heavy cream.
- Make sure the potatoes are sliced thinly to cook evenly.
- If the top browns too quickly, cover the casserole with foil and continue baking until done.
Nutritional Benefits:
- The combination of beef and potatoes provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
- Mozzarella adds a rich source of calcium and protein, while tomatoes contribute vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants.
- The use of olive oil and spices boosts the flavor without excess calories.
Dietary Information:
- This dish contains dairy, gluten, and eggs.
- It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting breadcrumbs altogether.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave for a few minutes until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and flavor. With a crispy potato base, savory beef filling, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that will warm you up and satisfy your hunger. It’s easy to make and a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week.
Conclusion:
This Beef and Potato Casserole with Mozzarella is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese combine for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a special weekend dinner. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be hooked!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can use cheddar, gouda, or any cheese that melts well. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. - Can I substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers after baking. - Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. - How do I prevent the top from burning?
If the top browns too quickly, cover the casserole with foil and continue baking until cooked through. - Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or leftover potatoes to save time. - Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
This recipe is not keto-friendly due to the potatoes, but you can substitute cauliflower or another low-carb vegetable. - Can I make this recipe without sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a similar texture. - What can I serve this casserole with?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.