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 (about 3 medium-sized, thinly sliced)
• Pickled cucumber (2–3 cucumbers, sliced for flavor)
• 200 g cheese (grated; mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite type)
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (for richness)

For the Fresh Salad:

• Green salad mix (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)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried mix)

How to Make the Casserole and Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture

1. In a bowl, soak the bread in milk until soft. Squeeze out excess milk and crumble the bread into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the minced meat, egg, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with a little oil or butter.
3. Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Spread half of the minced meat mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. Add a layer of pickled cucumber slices for a tangy flavor.
6. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, meat mixture, and cucumbers.
7. Finish with a final layer of potatoes. Spread the mayonnaise over the top layer for richness and sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the entire dish.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the green salad mix, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, parsley, and Italian herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, then toss with the prepared dressing. Garnish with dill and parsley.

Step 5: Serve

Serve a hearty slice of the casserole alongside a generous helping of fresh salad. Enjoy the balance of rich, savory casserole and light, tangy greens.

Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, for 6 servings)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The beauty of this Minced Meat and Potato Casserole with Fresh Salad lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Casseroles have been a staple in kitchens around the world because they combine wholesome ingredients into a single dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The addition of pickled cucumbers and cheese elevates this dish, adding layers of flavor and texture that make it truly special.

Paired with a fresh, vibrant salad, this meal strikes a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. The creamy garlic dressing ties the salad together, complementing the richness of the casserole. These timeless elements ensure that this recipe remains relevant across cultures, seasons, and generations.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory minced meat.

Can I make the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, the casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the same instructions.

Can I substitute the pickled cucumbers?

If you’re not a fan of pickled cucumbers, you can use fresh cucumber slices, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Thinly Slice the Potatoes: This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the casserole.
2. Grate the Cheese Fresh: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded options.
3. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning each layer for a well-balanced, flavorful dish.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration:

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing:

The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Salad Storage:

Dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp. Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

The Minced Meat and Potato Casserole with Fresh Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and balance. From the savory layers of tender potatoes and juicy minced meat to the tangy kick of pickled cucumbers and the creamy melted cheese on top, this dish offers a symphony of textures and flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Paired with the fresh, crisp salad, it becomes a complete meal that satisfies every craving while nourishing the body and soul. This recipe is timeless because it brings people together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a potluck gathering, or a festive celebration.

Moreover, the process of making this casserole is as rewarding as eating it. It invites you to layer, season, and bake with care, creating a dish that feels both personal and indulgent. The fresh salad adds a vibrant contrast, reminding us that the best meals are those that balance richness with freshness, tradition with creativity.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create something that transcends time—a dish that will not only nourish your loved ones but also create memories to cherish for years to come. This casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a timeless story told through the language of food. Enjoy every bite!