Experience the rich flavors and hearty satisfaction of this Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Casserole. Combining classic ingredients like potatoes and minced meat with robust seasonings and creamy cheese, this dish elevates the humble baked potato into a decadent meal that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or any occasion when you want something special and delicious
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 4 chicken eggs, beaten
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 500 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 150 g raw mushrooms, sliced
- 150 ml tomato sauce
- 150 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- A bunch of spring onions, chopped
- Vegetable oil (for frying and greasing)
- Seasonings: Salt, ground black pepper, dried sweet paprika, and dried ground garlic (to taste)
Directions:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Boil the sliced potatoes in salted water until just tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Meat Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the minced meat and cook until browned and crumbly.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until the mushrooms are soft.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with some vegetable oil.
- Layer half of the boiled potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
- Spread the meat and mushroom mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the top.
- Add the remaining potatoes as the next layer.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese and chopped spring onions on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set for easier slicing. Serve hot, garnished with additional spring onions if desired.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium: 120mg
- Iron: 3mg
The Origins and Popularity of Potato and Meat Casserole Casseroles have long been a staple in many cultures worldwide, serving as an economical and delicious way to feed families. This layered potato and meat casserole has roots in European and American cooking traditions, where layered dishes using potatoes, meat, and cheese have been popular for centuries. In many countries, variations of this dish exist—such as Shepherd’s Pie in the UK, Moussaka in Greece, and Kartoffelauflauf in Germany. The dish gained popularity due to its versatility, ability to incorporate readily available ingredients, and its ease of preparation. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food enjoyed by many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe This casserole is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The soft, tender potatoes contrast beautifully with the juicy minced meat and mushrooms, while the melted mozzarella cheese adds a deliciously gooey finish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress your guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
Health Benefits of Potato and Meat Casserole This casserole is packed with protein from the minced meat and eggs, which help support muscle growth and repair. The potatoes provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and essential vitamins like Vitamin C and B6. Mushrooms contribute antioxidants and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. With the addition of spring onions, which are rich in vitamins A and C, this dish is both nourishing and delicious.
Serving Suggestions To elevate your casserole experience, serve it with a fresh side salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds a creamy tanginess that pairs beautifully with the savory layers. Additionally, pairing this dish with a glass of red wine or a cold iced tea makes for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Ensure the potatoes are only parboiled and not fully cooked to prevent them from becoming too soft in the oven.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, mix a little heavy cream or sour cream with the beaten eggs before pouring them over the layers.
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking to set properly for easier slicing.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the minced meat with lentils or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped chili pepper or a dash of cayenne for a spicy twist.
Conclusion This potato and meat casserole is a hearty, delicious, and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when ready to serve.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! Wrap the cooled casserole in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese? You can use cheddar, gouda, parmesan, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and more fiber, making it a nutritious alternative.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy your homemade layered potato and meat casserole!