This Casserole with Mashed Potatoes, Minced Meat, and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending hearty mashed potatoes with a savory minced meat mixture, topped with a generous amount of cheese, and finished off with a creamy egg mixture. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a balanced combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. The crispy top, the creamy potatoes, and the flavorful meat make this dish irresistible and satisfying.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or preparing it for a larger gathering, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of ingredients creates a filling, rich, and hearty meal that is both filling and comforting. Its versatility allows you to tweak the ingredients based on personal preference or what you have in the kitchen, making it a great recipe to adapt as needed.
This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy savory, rich flavors, and it pairs wonderfully with a light salad or vegetables on the side.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times:
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 50 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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Yield: Serves 6-8 people
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Cuisine: Comfort Food, European, Family-Friendly
Full List of Ingredients:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
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Potatoes: 5 medium, boiled and mashed
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Butter: 2 tablespoons
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Salt: To taste
For the Minced Meat Mixture:
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Onions: 2 small, finely chopped
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Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
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Minced Meat: 600 g (1.32 lb)
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Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
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Cherry Tomatoes: 5, quartered
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Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
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Cheese (processed): 8 slices (divided)
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Cheese (shredded): 80 g (0.17 lb)
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Green Onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped
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Egg: 3
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Milk: 150 ml (5.07 oz)
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Paprika: 1 teaspoon
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Oregano: 1 teaspoon
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Salt and Pepper: To taste
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Dill (optional): For garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by boiling the potatoes until they are soft and easy to mash, which typically takes about 10-12 minutes. Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water and mash them with butter and salt until smooth. Set the mashed potatoes aside, then divide them into two equal portions.
Step 2: Cook the Minced Meat Mixture
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes to release its fragrant aroma.
Next, add the minced meat to the skillet and cook it, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the moisture has evaporated. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is browned, add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for another 2 minutes. Then, stir in the cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to cook for another minute to blend the flavors together.
Finally, stir in the green onions and cook for another minute before removing the skillet from the heat. Set aside the meat mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the dish from sticking. Start by spreading one-half of the prepared mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Layer 4 slices of processed cheese on top of the mashed potatoes to provide a creamy, cheesy base.
Next, add the cooked minced meat mixture as the next layer. Spread it evenly across the potatoes and cheese. Top the meat mixture with the remaining mashed potatoes, ensuring an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and place the remaining 4 slices of processed cheese on top for a cheesy and creamy finish.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 eggs and 150 ml of milk until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, along with a classic herbal blend (optional). Pour this egg mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring that it covers the layers well.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top is golden and the egg mixture has set. If desired, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh dill (optional) and serve warm. This dish can be served as the main course for a hearty meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
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Calories: 320
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 24g
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Fiber: 4g
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Protein: 16g
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Sodium: 540mg
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Sugars: 4g
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe:
The Casserole with Mashed Potatoes, Minced Meat, and Cheese draws inspiration from classic European comfort foods, particularly dishes that combine hearty vegetables, potatoes, and meats. This casserole is particularly popular in colder regions where warm, filling meals are essential during winter months. The dish is part of many home-cooked family meals across Europe and has become a favorite comfort food in many households worldwide.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Comforting and Hearty: This casserole combines rich mashed potatoes, savory minced meat, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying and comforting dish.
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Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Customizable: You can easily adapt this dish to suit your dietary preferences by adding or removing vegetables, using different types of cheese, or making it vegetarian.
Health Benefits:
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High in Protein: The minced meat provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
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Packed with Nutrients: The potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
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Calcium Boost: The cheese and milk in this recipe provide a good dose of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve the casserole with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
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Pair with steamed vegetables for extra fiber and nutrients.
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Enjoy with a slice of garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips:
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For a lighter version, you can substitute the processed cheese with low-fat cheese and use low-fat milk in the egg mixture.
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Make it ahead of time: Prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake it the next day for an easy dinner.
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Try different vegetables: You can substitute the bell pepper or tomatoes with other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
Variations to Try:
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the minced meat with lentils or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
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Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
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Herbaceous Version: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for added flavor.
Conclusion:
This Casserole with Mashed Potatoes, Minced Meat, and Cheese is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable, and will surely satisfy the entire family. Whether you serve it as a main course or alongside other dishes, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With its delicious layers of mashed potatoes, savory meat, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section:
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and bake it the next day.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of minced meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to minced beef.
3. Can I make this casserole without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a lighter version or need it to be dairy-free.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, peas, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
5. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While it’s possible to use instant mashed potatoes, fresh mashed potatoes give the casserole a richer, creamier texture.
6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the meat with plant-based ingredients like lentils, tofu, or chickpeas.