Layered Meat Pancake Casserole

This Layered Meat Pancake Casserole is a unique and delicious dish that combines tender pancakes, a savory meat filling, and creamy béchamel sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it’s a comforting and hearty meal everyone will enjoy.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 700 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
  • 100 g tomato sauce
  • Salt, ground black pepper, dried oregano, and sweet paprika to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

For the Pancake Batter:

  • 400 g flour
  • 10 chicken eggs
  • 250 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
  • Water or milk as needed (to achieve a smooth, pourable batter)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 30 g butter
  • 30 g flour
  • 500 ml milk
  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Meat Filling:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
  • Add the minced meat, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Simmer for a few minutes until well combined. Set aside.

Make the Pancake Batter:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and eggs. Gradually add water or milk until the batter is smooth and pourable (similar to pancake batter).
  • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly oil it. Pour enough batter to cover the bottom of the pan.
  • Cook until the edges start to lift, then flip to cook the other side. Repeat until all batter is used.

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir for about 1 minute to cook out the raw taste.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Assemble and Bake:

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F).
  • In a greased baking dish, layer the pancakes, meat filling, and grated mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, ending with a pancake on top.
  • Pour the béchamel sauce over the top layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese if desired.
  • Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a glass of red wine, sparkling water, or refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Tips

  • Use a mix of meats like beef and pork for a richer flavor.
  • Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the meat filling for extra freshness.
  • For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from the meat, eggs, and cheese.
  • Provides calcium and essential nutrients from the mozzarella and milk.
  • A filling dish that offers balanced energy.

Dietary Information

  • Non-Vegetarian
  • Contains Gluten (use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free)

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 4 g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) or microwave until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Layered Meat Pancake Casserole is a comforting, layered dish that combines the best of savory pancakes, hearty meat filling, and creamy béchamel sauce. It’s versatile, satisfying, and perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Conclusion
This casserole is a delightful way to elevate simple ingredients into a hearty and comforting dish. The layers of pancakes, savory meat, and creamy sauce create a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether served at a family dinner or festive gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use store-bought pancakes?
    Yes, you can use pre-made pancakes to save time, but homemade ones add a fresher touch.
  2. Can I freeze this casserole?
    Yes, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
  3. Can I use different cheese?
    Absolutely! Cheddar, Parmesan, or a cheese blend can be used for different flavors.
  4. Can I make this gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute the flour in both the batter and béchamel sauce with gluten-free flour.
  5. Can I add vegetables to the meat filling?
    Yes, diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers would be a great addition.
  6. Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
    Yes, ground chicken or turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
  7. What can I serve with this dish?
    A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great sides.
  8. Can I make the pancakes ahead of time?
    Yes, the pancakes can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
  9. How do I prevent the béchamel from clumping?
    Whisk constantly while adding the milk gradually to avoid lumps.
  10. How long does it keep in the fridge?
    This dish stays fresh for up to 3 days when properly stored.