If you’re looking for a comforting, filling, and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, this Classic Potato and Minced Beef Casserole is a must-try! Combining layers of tender potatoes with seasoned minced beef, mushrooms, and melted mozzarella, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy garlic cucumber sauce on the side adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the rich and hearty casserole, making it a complete and balanced meal. With just a few basic ingredients, this casserole will surely become a regular favorite in your home. Plus, it’s an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time or freeze for later, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 700 g potatoes
• 600 g minced beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 50 g tomato sauce
• 150 g raw mushrooms, sliced
• 150 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• Spices for the minced meat (such as paprika, cumin, or dried thyme)

For the Sauce:

• 60 g sour cream
• 30 g mayonnaise
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cucumber, finely chopped
• A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Steps on How to Do It:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Boil them in salted water for about 10 minutes, until they are just tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Minced Beef:
   • Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened (around 5 minutes).
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the minced beef to the skillet and cook until browned (7-10 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and spices such as paprika or cumin. Stir in the tomato sauce and sliced mushrooms, and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • In a greased baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in a single layer.
   • Spread the minced beef and mushroom mixture evenly over the potato layer.
   • Add the remaining potatoes on top and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the entire casserole.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   • Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Cucumber Sauce:
   • While the casserole is baking, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped cucumber, and dill in a bowl.
   • Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Serve:
   • Once the casserole is baked, let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Slice and serve with the creamy garlic cucumber sauce on the side for a fresh, tangy complement to the rich flavors of the casserole.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Sugars: 4 g

Please note: these values are estimates and may vary depending on the brands and specific quantities of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
2. What kind of potatoes should I use?
   • Starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon golds are ideal for this recipe because they soften well during baking, absorbing the flavors of the beef and sauce.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then bake it when ready to serve. If baking from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
   • Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once fully baked, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until thoroughly warmed.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
   • Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional flavor and nutrition.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezing: As mentioned earlier, the casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Storing the Sauce: The creamy garlic cucumber sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and consumed within 2-3 days. It’s best served fresh, as cucumbers tend to release water over time, which can affect the consistency.

Conclusion:

This Classic Potato and Minced Beef Casserole with Creamy Garlic Cucumber Sauce is a wonderful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious and hearty meal. The combination of savory minced beef, tender potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese is hard to resist, while the cucumber sauce provides a fresh, tangy twist. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is versatile and easy to customize based on your tastes.

Whether you’re enjoying it straight out of the oven or saving it for a later meal, this casserole is sure to satisfy. The sauce adds a cooling balance that elevates the dish and complements its richness. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to make, and the leftovers are just as good, if not better. Try this recipe next time you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that everyone will love!