Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Onion: 400 g (14 oz) – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Minced meat: 1 kg (2 lb) – Provides the hearty protein base.
• Salt: 5 g (0.2 oz) – For seasoning.
• Black pepper: 2 g (0.1 oz) – Adds a subtle kick of spice.
• Ground coriander: 5 g (0.2 oz) – For earthy, aromatic notes.
• Sweet paprika: 5 g (0.2 oz) – Brings warmth and a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic: 10 g (0.4 oz) – Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
• Soft butter: 200 g (7.1 oz) – Adds richness to the layers.
• Eggs: 5 pcs – Creates a creamy and cohesive topping.
• Water: 500 ml (17 fl oz) – For cooking the ingredients evenly.
• Potatoes: 200 g (7.1 oz) – Thinly sliced to create creamy, tender layers.
• Cheese: 100 g (3.5 oz) – Adds gooey, melted richness.
• Mayonnaise: 50 g (1.8 oz) – For a creamy, golden topping.

Steps to Make Layered Minced Meat and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the onions into small pieces. Divide them into two portions: one for sautéing with the meat and one for layering.
2. Season the minced meat with salt, black pepper, ground coriander, and sweet paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
3. Mince the garlic and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Minced Meat

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 100 g of the butter.
2. Add half the chopped onions and cook until golden and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the seasoned minced meat to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) for even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer if available for uniform slices.
2. Parboil the sliced potatoes in salted water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a large baking dish with the remaining butter.
3. Start with a layer of sautéed onions at the bottom of the dish for added sweetness.
4. Spread a layer of minced meat evenly over the onions.
5. Add a layer of parboiled potato slices, ensuring they slightly overlap.
6. Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs with mayonnaise until smooth. Add a pinch of salt for seasoning.
2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring it seeps into the layers.
3. Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Prep Time

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time

• 1 hour

Total Time

• 1 hour 20 minutes

Calories

• Approximately 480 kcal per serving

Servings

• Serves 6-8

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Layered Minced Meat and Potato Casserole is a dish that has stood the test of time because of its universal appeal and versatility. It’s a recipe that brings together simple, everyday ingredients to create something extraordinary. The dish is rich, satisfying, and comforting, making it a staple for family dinners, potlucks, and even festive occasions.

Its timelessness lies in its adaptability. You can easily substitute beef for turkey or chicken, add layers of vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or experiment with different cheeses. The recipe is forgiving and open to interpretation, which makes it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks.

The combination of flavors and textures—from the savory minced meat to the creamy potatoes and golden, cheesy topping—is what makes this casserole so special. It’s a meal that feels nostalgic yet modern, rustic yet refined.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Cholesterol: 140mg

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
   • Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Absolutely. Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. What sides go well with this dish?
   • A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread make excellent accompaniments.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Yes, substitute the minced meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative.

Tips for Making the Best Casserole

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Thinly slice the potatoes for even cooking and layering.
• Don’t skip parboiling the potatoes—it ensures they cook through without becoming mushy.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing to maintain the integrity of the layers.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in individual containers for easy reheating.

Conclusion

Layered Minced Meat and Potato Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together. Its hearty layers of meat, potatoes, and cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures that is both comforting and satisfying. This casserole is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed through thoughtful preparation and layering.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and adaptability. It’s a dish you can make your own by tweaking the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a quiet family dinner.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to create a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors, creamy textures, and golden topping, this casserole is the epitome of comfort food. Enjoy every bite and savor the timeless appeal of this hearty classic.