Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 600 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
• 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
• Bread (enough to soak in milk for binding)
• Milk (enough to soak the bread)
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• Potatoes (enough to layer, about 3 medium-sized)
• Pickled cucumber (for added flavor, about 2-3 cucumbers)
• 200 g cheese (grated; use your favorite type such as mozzarella or cheddar)
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (for richness)

For the Fresh Salad:

• Green salad mix (such as lettuce, spinach, or arugula)
• 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 cucumber (sliced)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved, about a cup)
• Dill (fresh or dried, for garnish)
• Parsley (fresh for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried mix)
• Olive oil (for dressing)

For the Dressing:

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
• Parsley (finely chopped for flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried mix)

Steps to Make the Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. Soak the Bread: Start by tearing the bread into small pieces and placing it in a bowl. Pour enough milk over it to soak the bread. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until soft.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the soaked bread (squeeze out excess milk), minced meat, sautéed onion and garlic, and the egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for added flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Layer

1. Slice the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/4 inch thick). This will create a lovely layer in the casserole.
2. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a casserole dish with a little olive oil or butter.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Ingredients: Start by spreading half of the meat mixture at the bottom of the casserole dish. Layer half of the potato slices on top. Add a layer of pickled cucumber slices followed by half of the grated cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining meat mixture, potatoes, and top with the remaining cheese.
2. Add the Mayonnaise: Spread the 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise evenly over the top layer of cheese for added creaminess.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You can check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork; they should be easily pierced.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit and make it easier to slice.

Prepare the Fresh Salad

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. Mix the Greens: In a large bowl, combine the green salad mix, thinly sliced red onion, sliced cucumber, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian herbs. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Serve

1. Garnish: Top the salad with fresh dill and parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
2. Plate the Casserole and Salad: Slice the casserole into squares and serve alongside the fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Note: Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 30-35 g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
• Fats: 20-25 g
• Fiber: 3-4 g
• Sodium: Moderate (depends on added salt and cheese)

This hearty meal provides a balanced combination of protein from the meat and cheese, healthy fats from the olive oil and mayonnaise, and carbohydrates from the potatoes and bread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! This recipe works well with any ground meat, such as chicken, turkey, or lamb. Just be mindful of the cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using leaner meats, reducing the amount of cheese, or incorporating more vegetables into the meat mixture. You can also use whole grain bread for added fiber.

3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

4. What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It will provide creaminess and tanginess without the extra calories.

5. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Tips for Making the Perfect Casserole

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your casserole, so try to use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meat tough. Mix just until combined.
3. Layer with Care: Ensure even layering of the ingredients to allow for even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the casserole.
4. Check for Doneness: If you find the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to cook.
5. Serve with Extra Salad: For a more substantial meal, serve with extra salad on the side, or consider adding other seasonal vegetables to the mix.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: If you have a lot of leftovers, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers. This allows for quick meals on busy days.

Conclusion

This Hearty Meat and Cheese Casserole paired with a refreshing salad makes for a perfect meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. With the blend of minced meat, cheese, and a delightful salad, you’re sure to have a hit on your hands! Enjoy this delicious recipe and make it a regular in your dinner rotation. Bon appétit!