This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate! Every grandma has her signature dish, and this Potato and Meat Casserole is a family favorite that’s been enjoyed for generations.
The beauty lies in its simplicity. Using readily available ingredients, this casserole comes together quickly and delivers a flavor explosion that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Crispy potatoes, savory ground meat, fluffy eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese create a textural and taste sensation. The optional creamy dill sauce adds a delightful tang that perfectly complements the hearty flavors.
So, gather your family around the table and recreate this nostalgic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your own home!
Ingredients:
- Cooking oil or vegetable fat (enough for frying)
- 4-5 potatoes, cut into small cubes
- 450g ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Black pepper to taste
- 5 eggs
- 100g shredded cheese
- Optional Toppings:
- 2 pickles, chopped
- 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
- Optional Sauce:
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Crispy Potato Base:
- Heat enough oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and fry them for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- Remove the potatoes with a slotted spoon and drain any excess oil.
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Savory Ground Meat:
- Add a little more oil to the pan (if needed) and fry the ground meat for 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
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Aromatic Additions:
- Add the chopped onion to the pan with the cooked meat and cook for 2 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrant oils.
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Seasoning Symphony:
- Season the meat mixture with salt, paprika, and black pepper to taste.
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The Egg Custard:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 5 eggs with 1 teaspoon of salt until smooth.
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The Big Mix:
- Add the cooked and drained potatoes back to the bowl with the cooked meat mixture.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the bowl and mix everything well to combine.
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Baking Time:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, spread the potato and meat mixture evenly.
- Top with the shredded cheese.
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Stovetop or Oven? You Decide!
- You have two cooking options:
- Stovetop: Cook the dish over low heat on the stovetop for 10 minutes, or until the bottom is set.
- Oven: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottom is set and the top is golden brown.
- You have two cooking options:
-
Optional Creamy Dill Sauce:
- While the casserole cooks, you can prepare the optional sauce.
- In a small bowl, combine chopped pickles, chopped fresh dill, mustard, sour cream, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well.
-
Serve and Savor:
- Serve the cooked potato and meat casserole hot with a dollop of the optional sauce on top.
More Information:
- Feel free to customize the protein! Ground turkey, chicken, or a sausage blend can be substituted for the ground beef or pork.
- To save time, use pre-shredded cheese or leftover cooked potatoes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion:
Grandma’s Potato and Meat Casserole is a nostalgic dish filled with love and flavor. So easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With its versatility and comforting taste, this recipe is sure to become a treasured part of your family’s culinary tradition.