If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that satisfies both your appetite and your soul, this Creamy Baked Potato and Minced Meat Casserole is your new go-to dinner. This dish combines layers of seasoned minced meat, grated potatoes, and a rich cream cheese-sour cream sauce, all topped with melted cheese and baked until golden brown. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple, everyday ingredients.
Cooking Time
Prep time: 25 minutes
Resting time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the meat mixture:
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1000 g (35 oz) minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
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1 egg
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Salt to taste
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Black pepper to taste
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1/2 onion (finely chopped)
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Paprika powder to taste
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Dried garlic to taste
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Fresh parsley (chopped)
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100 g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
For the potato mixture:
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1000 g (35 oz) potatoes (peeled and grated)
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1 egg
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/2 onion (grated or finely chopped)
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3 garlic cloves (minced)
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Oregano to taste
For the sauce and topping:
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100 g (3.5 oz) cream cheese
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200 g (7 oz) sour cream
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Olive oil for brushing
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100 g (3.5 oz) grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine minced meat, 1 egg, salt, pepper, paprika, dried garlic, chopped parsley, onion, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined. Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture
Grate the potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean cloth or paper towel. Add 1 egg, salt, pepper, oregano, garlic, and onion. Mix until the potatoes are well-seasoned and coated.
3. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (356°F).
4. Assemble the Casserole
Grease a large baking dish with olive oil. Spread half of the potato mixture as the bottom layer. Evenly spread the meat mixture over the potatoes. Cover with the remaining potato mixture.
5. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and spread evenly over the top layer of potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake
Bake the casserole at 180°C (356°F) for 40 minutes. Then, remove the dish, sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top, and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired and serve hot.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 6 servings)
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Calories: 530 kcal
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Protein: 27g
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Fat: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: Moderate to high (adjust with seasoning)
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This recipe resembles many traditional European casseroles, where meat and potatoes are layered with dairy and baked until golden. Similar to French gratins, Eastern European moussakas, or German meat-potato bakes, this dish blends affordability, flavor, and convenience. It has grown in popularity thanks to social media, where home cooks look for reliable, family-style meals that don’t require complicated steps.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Rich and hearty—perfect for feeding a hungry family
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Simple ingredients you probably already have at home
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One-pan dish—less cleanup and more convenience
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Perfect balance of textures: creamy, crispy, and tender
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Highly adaptable to your personal tastes
Health Benefits
Despite its richness, this casserole includes several nutritious components:
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Potatoes provide potassium, fiber, and vitamin C
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Minced meat is a good source of protein and iron
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Garlic and onions have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
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Sour cream and cream cheese offer calcium and probiotics
To lighten it up, use lean minced meat, low-fat dairy, and bake with minimal oil.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Add a side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach
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Serve with pickled vegetables for contrast
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Offer crusty bread to soak up extra sauce
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Not draining the potatoes: Excess moisture makes the bake soggy
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Underseasoning: Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs
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Using low-moisture meat: Too lean meat may result in dryness—consider a blend
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Adding cheese too early: Wait until the last 10 minutes to avoid burning
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Skipping the resting time: Letting the meat mixture sit helps bind it better
Pairing Recommendations
Drinks:
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Light red wines like Pinot Noir
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Chilled white wine like Chardonnay
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Sparkling water with lemon
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Apple cider
Sides:
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Cucumber salad with yogurt
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Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
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Sautéed mushrooms with thyme
Desserts:
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Light berry parfaits
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Apple crisp
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Vanilla pudding
Cooking Tips
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Use a box grater or food processor for fast potato shredding
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Line the baking dish with parchment paper if you want easier cleanup
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Taste test seasonings before assembling
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Use cheese with good meltability for a golden topping
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For extra crispiness, broil the top layer for 2-3 minutes after baking
Similar Recipes to Try
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Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potato Topping
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Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole
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Potato and Spinach Gratin
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Moussaka with Eggplant and Ground Meat
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Hash Brown and Sausage Breakfast Bake
Variations to Try
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes or jalapeños
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Mediterranean style: Use feta cheese and oregano
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms
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Low-carb: Use grated zucchini instead of potatoes
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Mexican-inspired: Add cumin, corn, and cheddar cheese
Ingredient Spotlight: Minced Meat
Minced meat is the heart of this dish. It’s versatile, protein-packed, and absorbs seasonings beautifully. For best results, use a blend of beef and pork, or try ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Be sure to choose fresh, high-quality meat and season it well.
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Potato and Minced Meat Casserole is a winner in every sense—simple to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers comfort, nutrition, and homemade goodness. The layers of potato, meat, and cheese meld together into a hearty, golden casserole that everyone will love. It’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well, just season generously.
2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, slice the cooled casserole and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual slices.
5. Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for texture, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer.
6. Can I add vegetables to the meat layer?
Yes! Try chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
7. What cheese is best for the topping?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda melt well and give a golden finish.
8. Is it necessary to rest the meat mixture?
Yes, it helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture and improves binding.
9. Can I skip the cream cheese or sour cream?
You can replace them with Greek yogurt or a lighter cream, but flavor will vary.
10. How do I make it more crispy on top?
Use a broiler for 2-3 minutes after the final bake or add more cheese.