This Cheesy Minced Meat and Potato Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish combining layers of seasoned potatoes, savory minced meat, and gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect as a comforting family meal or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Potato Layer:
- 4 potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Dried garlic, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- For the Filling:
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 100 g mushrooms, chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 pepper, diced
- 300 g minced meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onion, chopped
- Parsley, chopped
- For the Topping:
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons cottage cheese
- 150 g cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
Instructions
Prepare the Potato Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Arrange the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, turmeric, and dried garlic. Drizzle with olive oil.
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the grated carrot and cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for another 3–4 minutes.
- Add the diced pepper and minced meat. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Stir in the green onion and remove from heat.
Assemble the Bake:
- Spread the cooked filling evenly over the potato layer in the baking dish.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with cottage cheese until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the meat and vegetables.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Serve:
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad or crusty bread.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cover the dish with foil if the top browns too quickly before the potatoes are tender.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the meat mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium and a good source of energy.
- Minced Meat: High in protein and iron.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and flavor.
Dietary Information
- Can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese and skip the cottage cheese.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Serves 6)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A complete meal in one dish.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
- Perfect for meal prep and reheats well.
- Comfort food at its best, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty flavors.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Minced Meat and Potato Bake is an easy-to-make, versatile dish that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, it’s packed with flavor and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes add a delicious twist.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze after baking. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
- What other vegetables can I use? Zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers work well.
- Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef? Yes, both are great alternatives.
- What’s a good cheese substitute? Gouda, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack are excellent choices.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- What’s the best way to reheat? Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.
- Can I make it spicier? Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- What dipping sauces go well? Sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy mayo complement this dish well.