Hearty Baked Meat and Potato Cutlet Casserole

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If you’re in search of a fulfilling and savory dinner that brings together tender meat, golden potatoes, melted cheese, and vibrant vegetables in a single baking dish, this Hearty Baked Meat and Potato Cutlet Casserole is for you. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, featuring flavorful meat patties layered with crispy pan-fried potatoes, aromatic sautéed vegetables, and finished with bubbling mozzarella. It’s a perfect family dinner idea, rich in flavor, nutrients, and rustic charm.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

2.2 lb (1000 g) minced meat (beef, pork, or mixed)
1 chicken egg
Salt (to taste)

Ground black pepper (to taste)
½ tsp dried garlic
1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp ground coriander
2 tbsp flour
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Butter (1–2 tbsp)
1 onion (chopped)
1 carrot (grated or chopped finely)

2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 small bunch fresh parsley (chopped)
3–4 potatoes (peeled and sliced thinly)

1 red bell pepper (sliced)
Salt, dried garlic, and dried herbs (for potatoes)
4.2 oz (120 g) mozzarella cheese (grated)

3.5 oz (100 g) mushrooms (sliced, optional)
Lettuce leaves (for serving)
½ red onion (sliced, for serving)

Canned corn (for serving)
Dill (chopped, optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, one egg, salt, pepper, dried garlic, paprika, and coriander. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all spices evenly. Add two tablespoons of flour to help bind the mixture. Set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a mix of butter and vegetable oil in a pan. Add the chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté on medium heat until the vegetables soften (about 4–6 minutes). Season with salt.
Add Aromatics to Meat: Add the sautéed onion-carrot mixture, chopped parsley, and minced garlic to the meat bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well-combined. Cover and let it rest for 20 minutes on the counter.
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice 3–4 potatoes. Season with salt, dried garlic, and dried herbs. Pan-fry the slices in a little olive oil until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.

Shape the Cutlets: Form small oval or round meat patties from the rested meat mixture. This recipe yields about 20 cutlets. Optionally sear them quickly on a hot pan to develop a crust before baking.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F). In a baking dish, layer the pan-fried potatoes at the bottom. Add slices of red bell pepper over them. Arrange the meat cutlets in a single layer.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the meat and vegetables.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden, and the meat is cooked through.
Optional Mushroom Garnish: While baking, sauté the mushrooms in olive oil until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare Fresh Salad for Serving: Toss lettuce, sliced red onion, canned corn, and fresh dill. Dress with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked casserole hot, garnished with sautéed mushrooms and accompanied by a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximation)

Calories: 480
Protein: 32 g

Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 4 g

Sodium: 600 mg
Calcium: 180 mg
Iron: 3.5 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

This dish blends elements from various European comfort foods: meat cutlets popular in Eastern Europe, potato gratin traditions from France, and the cheese-and-bake techniques of Italian casseroles. Its versatility and layered approach make it beloved across many cultures, particularly in family households where hearty meals are central.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

It’s a complete one-dish meal.

Combines protein, vegetables, and carbs harmoniously.
Customizable to suit different taste preferences.
Freezes and reheats well for future meals.

Comforting, rustic, and packed with rich flavors.

Health Benefits

Protein-Rich: Minced meat and eggs supply essential amino acids.
Vitamins A & C: From carrots, parsley, and bell peppers.

Fiber: Potatoes and vegetables add necessary dietary fiber.
Bone Health: Cheese provides calcium and phosphorus.
Immune Boost: Garlic, parsley, and onions contain immune-boosting compounds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a light salad of lettuce, corn, red onion, and dill.
Pair with a slice of rustic bread or sourdough.
Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side.

Garnish with roasted mushrooms for earthy depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the baking dish: This can result in uneven cooking.
Skipping the resting period for meat mixture: Flavors and textures improve with a short rest.

Undercooking potatoes: Ensure they are golden and partially cooked before layering.
Too much cheese: While tempting, excess cheese can make the top greasy.
Using wet vegetables: Always sauté to remove excess moisture before adding to the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Drink: A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a cold lager beer.
Side: Fresh cucumber yogurt salad or steamed green beans.
Bread: Crusty garlic bread or rye toast.

Sauce: Horseradish cream or garlic aioli adds a zesty kick.

Cooking Tips

Use a mix of beef and pork for juicy cutlets.
Add chili flakes if you like it spicy.

Try pre-roasting the red peppers for a smoky touch.
Shred the mozzarella from a block for better melt quality than pre-shredded.
Grease the baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.

Similar Recipes to Try

Baked Zucchini and Potato Casserole with Cheese
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Bake
Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potato Topping
Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Minced Meat
Layered Eggplant and Beef Lasagna

Variations to Try

Vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms.
Low-carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower slices.
Spicy: Add chili powder and jalapeños.
Cheesy Deluxe: Add a béchamel layer before topping with mozzarella.
Mediterranean: Add olives, oregano, and feta.

Ingredient Spotlight: Potatoes

Potatoes are not only a comfort food staple but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. When pan-fried before baking, they develop a crisp exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior, making them the perfect base for layered casseroles.

Conclusion

This Hearty Baked Meat and Potato Cutlet Casserole is the perfect blend of tradition, comfort, and culinary satisfaction. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, it offers unbeatable warmth and flavor. With its customizable ingredients and foolproof layering method, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

10 Comprehensive FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day before and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze it after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven at 180°C until warmed through.

3. What meat is best for the cutlets?
A mix of beef and pork gives the best flavor and juiciness. You can also use chicken or turkey for a leaner option.

4. Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
Yes, try cheddar for sharpness, provolone for mildness, or a cheese mix for variety.

5. Is it necessary to pre-fry the potatoes?
It improves texture and flavor, but you can bake raw slices—just increase the baking time and cover with foil for the first 20 minutes.

6. What vegetables can I substitute?
You can use zucchini, eggplant, or spinach in place of or alongside the bell pepper and carrots.

7. How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The meat cutlets should register 70°C (160°F) internally, and the top should be golden.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?
Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like vegan mozzarella.

9. What pan size should I use?
A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.

10. How long can leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers last 3–4 days in the fridge.