Cheesy Minced Meat Casserole

This Cheesy Minced Meat Casserole is a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner packed with flavorful ground meat, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal and can be customized with different ingredients for variety.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

  • 500 g (1 lb) minced meat (beef, pork, or mixed)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 100 ml (½ cup) water or beef broth
  • 3 potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella or cheddar, shredded
  • 2 eggs
  • 200 ml (¾ cup) milk or cream
  • 1 tsp baking powder (for fluffiness)

Directions

1. Cook the Minced Meat

  • Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  • Add minced meat and cook until browned.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
  • Stir in tomato paste and water, then simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Peel and thinly slice potatoes.

3. Assemble the Casserole

  • Grease a baking dish with oil.
  • Layer half of the potatoes in the dish.
  • Spread the cooked minced meat evenly.
  • Add the remaining potatoes on top.

4. Make the Egg Mixture

  • Whisk together eggs, milk, and baking powder.
  • Pour over the casserole.

5. Bake

  • Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
  • Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

6. Serve

  • Let it cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a fresh salad or pickles.
  • Enjoy with garlic yogurt sauce or sour cream.
  • Pair with steamed vegetables or crusty bread.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra creaminess, mix sour cream into the egg mixture.
  • Make it spicier by adding chili flakes.
  • Substitute potatoes with pasta for a different version.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from minced meat and eggs.
  • Rich in calcium from cheese.
  • Good source of vitamins from potatoes and onions.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-free
  • Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 18g

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 1 month; reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple, quick, and family-friendly
  • Budget-friendly and uses basic ingredients
  • Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
  • Perfect for meal prep or leftovers

Conclusion
This Cheesy Minced Meat Casserole is an easy and delicious dinner that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether for a quick weekday meal or a weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to please. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use ground chicken instead? Yes! Chicken or turkey works well.
  • Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes! Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.
  • Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini work great.
  • Can I make it ahead? Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
  • How do I reheat leftovers? Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or microwave.