This Cheesy Meat and Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines savory ground meat, soft mashed potatoes, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With layers of flavorful filling and a golden, cheesy topping, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Cuisine This recipe draws inspiration from classic comfort food, combining hearty potatoes with savory ground meat and a cheesy topping for a satisfying dish that’s both filling and flavorful.
Full List of Ingredients
-
For the Filling:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 1-2 onions, finely chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 450 grams (1 lb) minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Sweet pepper (1, chopped)
- 1 cup pureed tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
-
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 1/2 cup hot milk
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Cut the potatoes into large pieces and place them into a pot. Pour boiling water over the potatoes and add a pinch of salt.
- Cook the potatoes until they are soft, about 15-20 minutes, then drain them and set aside.
-
Cook the Onion:
- While the potatoes are cooking, finely chop the onions. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
-
Cook the Meat:
- Add the minced meat to the pan with the onions and cook until golden brown, breaking up any lumps with a spatula as it cooks.
- Add the minced garlic, sweet pepper, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Stir well to combine.
-
Add the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook covered over low heat for about 7-8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
-
Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are cooked and drained, mash them with a potato masher or a hand mixer. Add 1/2 cup of hot milk and fresh dill to the mashed potatoes, then mix until smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a baking dish, spread the cooked meat mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the meat mixture, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure the top layer of potatoes is smooth and well-packed.
-
Add the Mozzarella:
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes.
-
Bake the Casserole:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe Casseroles have long been a staple in many kitchens around the world, particularly in North America and Europe. This variation, featuring a combination of minced meat, potatoes, and cheese, draws inspiration from comfort food dishes that are easy to prepare, hearty, and satisfying.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of savory ground meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese makes this dish incredibly comforting.
- Easy to Make: This casserole is simple to prepare, with just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort.
- Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Protein: The minced meat provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Packed with Vegetables: The onions, garlic, and sweet pepper add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish, making it more nutritious.
- Calcium from Cheese: The mozzarella cheese adds calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Green Salad: Serve this casserole with a light green salad made of mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing for a well-rounded meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Pair it with crispy garlic bread to scoop up the savory filling for an even more indulgent experience.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Complement the casserole with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use a Sturdy Baking Dish: Since this casserole has multiple layers, make sure to use a sturdy, oven-safe dish to prevent it from falling apart while baking.
- Avoid Overcooking the Meat: Don’t overcook the minced meat to keep it juicy and tender. Cook it just enough to brown it and break it into small pieces.
- Flavor the Mashed Potatoes: If you want more flavor in the mashed potatoes, you can add a bit of butter or garlic powder to enhance the taste.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, substitute the minced meat with a plant-based protein like lentils, mushrooms, or tofu.
- Spicy Option: Add some chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
- Add More Vegetables: You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the meat mixture for a more colorful and nutrient-rich casserole.
Conclusion This Cheesy Meat and Potato Casserole is a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its creamy mashed potatoes, savory meat filling, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
-
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
-
Can I use different cheese for the topping? Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan.
-
Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
-
How long do leftovers last in the fridge? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
-
Can I make this recipe without meat? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the minced meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils, mushrooms, or beans.
-
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, peas, or zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
-
Can I use instant mashed potatoes? While fresh mashed potatoes give the best texture and flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch.
-
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the minced beef for a leaner version of this casserole.
-
What side dishes go well with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or garlic bread.
-
How do I know when the casserole is done baking? The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. You can insert a toothpick to ensure the filling is hot throughout.