Indulge in the warmth and richness of our savory Beef and Potato Bake—a comforting dish that brings together tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. This recipe is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. With a blend of aromatic spices, wholesome vegetables, and creamy cheese, this bake offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 7 medium-sized potatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- ¼ tsp shredded ginger
- ½ kg (about 1 pound) ground beef
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 onions, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Instructions:
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds. Set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced onions, crushed garlic, and shredded ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent and aromatic.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced carrot and green bell pepper, cooking until they start to soften.
- Add the honey, mustard, soy sauce, black pepper, paprika, curry powder, and dried basil. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Layer the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Spoon half of the meat mixture over the potatoes.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes, then the remaining meat mixture.
- Top with the remaining potato slices. Season with a little more salt and pepper.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the top layer of potatoes generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve:
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow it to set up for easier slicing.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs or a side salad if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
This Beef and Potato Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad of fresh greens dressed in a light vinaigrette. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
For a more flavorful dish, marinate the ground beef with the soy sauce, honey, and mustard for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Layering the potatoes and meat mixture evenly ensures even cooking and distribution of flavors throughout the bake.
Nutritional Benefits:
This dish provides a good source of protein from the ground beef, essential vitamins and minerals from the potatoes and vegetables, and calcium from the melted cheese. It’s a balanced meal that can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this Beef and Potato Bake for its comforting flavors, easy preparation, and versatility. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this bake is sure to be a hit.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Beef and Potato Bake is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings together wholesome ingredients for a comforting meal experience. With its savory flavors, nutritional benefits, and adaptability, it’s a recipe that will become a staple on your dining table. Enjoy the heartiness and warmth of this bake as you create lasting memories around the dinner table with your loved ones.