This Layered Potato and Meat Bake with Spinach and Herbs is a cozy, rustic, and flavor-packed dish perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Combining layers of grated potatoes, seasoned minced meat, fresh greens, aromatic herbs, and gooey melted cheese, this bake delivers satisfaction in every bite. Inspired by traditional European casseroles and Mediterranean flavors, this dish is nutrient-rich, protein-packed, and wonderfully comforting. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s budget-conscious, customizable, and easy to prepare ahead.
Cooking Time
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
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Servings: 6 portions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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3 eggs
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2 tablespoons flour
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4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
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Plant oil (for frying or greasing)
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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250 g minced meat (beef, pork, chicken, or a mix)
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp Provencal herbs
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1 fresh tomato, diced
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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A handful of spinach leaves
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2 spring onions, chopped
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A small bunch of dill, chopped
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120 g cheese (grated – mozzarella, cheddar, or your choice)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Potato Layer
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Peel and grate the potatoes.
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In a bowl, mix the grated potatoes with 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 egg, salt, and pepper.
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Set aside and allow excess moisture to drain slightly.
2. Cook the Meat Filling
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In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of plant oil over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden.
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Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.
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Add the minced meat. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
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Stir in diced tomato, tomato paste, paprika, salt, pepper, and Provencal herbs.
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Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Add chopped spinach, spring onions, and dill. Mix well and remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Bake
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
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Lightly grease a baking dish with oil.
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Spread half of the potato mixture in the bottom of the dish.
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Spoon the meat and spinach mixture evenly on top.
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Add the remaining potato mixture as a top layer.
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In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 2 eggs and pour over the top.
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Sprinkle evenly with the grated cheese.
4. Bake
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
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Calories: 390
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Protein: 22g
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Fat: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 3g
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Sodium: 420mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish draws inspiration from classic European casseroles like the French “gratin,” Balkan “musaka,” and Mediterranean meat pies. It combines humble ingredients — potatoes, eggs, herbs, and ground meat — with an emphasis on layered textures and fresh herbs. Over time, variations of this meal have become popular in home kitchens across Europe and the Middle East for being comforting, filling, and easily adaptable.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Comfort food favorite: Rich, hearty, and warm — perfect for family dinners.
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Full meal in one dish: Contains carbs, protein, vegetables, and dairy.
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Customizable: Works with whatever greens, herbs, or cheese you have.
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Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Health Benefits
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Potatoes: High in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C when not overprocessed.
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Eggs and meat: Rich in complete proteins and essential B vitamins.
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Spinach and dill: Support immune health and digestion with iron and antioxidants.
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Onions and garlic: Boost heart health and offer antimicrobial benefits.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a side of sour cream or plain yogurt.
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Add a light green salad with lemon dressing for contrast.
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Perfect with crusty bread or roasted vegetables.
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For a spicier version, serve with hot chili sauce or salsa.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Watery potatoes: Be sure to drain excess moisture from the grated potatoes.
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Undercooked layers: Ensure the center is cooked by checking with a knife — it should come out hot and clean.
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Too much moisture in meat: Let the meat mixture thicken before layering.
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Skipping rest time: Let the bake cool a few minutes before slicing for neater servings.
Pairing Recommendations
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Wine: A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel.
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Beer: A pale ale or light lager complements the herbs and cheese.
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Non-alcoholic: Iced tea with lemon or a cucumber mint spritzer works beautifully.
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Soup pairing: A light tomato or vegetable broth as a starter.
Cooking Tips
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Use waxy potatoes: Like Yukon Gold or red potatoes — they hold their shape better.
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Fresh herbs boost flavor: Use parsley, oregano, or even basil for variety.
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Add layers of vegetables: Zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions.
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For a crispy top: Bake uncovered for the final 10 minutes or use the broiler briefly.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Greek Moussaka with Eggplant and Bechamel
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Baked Zucchini and Ground Beef Casserole
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Potato and Chicken Gratin with Cheese
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Layered Vegetable Lasagna (No Pasta)
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Sweet Potato and Turkey Meatloaf Bake
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or tofu.
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Spicy: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the meat mixture.
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Cheesy crust: Add extra cheese under the top potato layer for double meltiness.
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Creamy version: Mix a spoon of sour cream into the meat layer.
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Gluten-free: Use rice flour or omit the flour if your potatoes are starchy enough.
Ingredient Spotlight: Provencal Herbs
This classic French herb blend includes thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, and marjoram. It adds an aromatic, earthy depth to meat and vegetable dishes. In this recipe, it complements both the savory minced meat and the fresh green spinach, bringing a Mediterranean note that makes the bake extra flavorful.
Conclusion
This Layered Potato and Meat Bake with Spinach and Herbs is the perfect dish for those who love hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meals made with real ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals in advance, this casserole-style bake is easy to customize and sure to become a favorite at your table. It’s nourishing, comforting, and packs everything you need into one warm, delicious slice.
10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor and more beta-carotene. Adjust seasoning to balance the sweetness.
2. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb all work well.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 1 day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, once baked and cooled, slice and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.
5. Can I add cheese inside the layers instead of just on top?
Definitely! Sprinkle grated cheese between layers for a gooier, cheesier bake.
6. What herbs can replace Provencal herbs?
Use Italian seasoning or a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and basil.
7. What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Mozzarella melts beautifully. Cheddar, Gouda, or feta can also be used for different flavor profiles.
8. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild in flavor and can be served with ketchup or yogurt for younger tastes.
9. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cheese and ensure your minced meat isn’t mixed with cream-based additives.
10. Can I add eggs into the meat mixture instead of on top?
You can mix 1 egg into the meat to bind it, but still pour some egg on top for a golden, cohesive finish.