This layered potato and meat casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. With layers of potatoes, vegetables, minced meat, and cheese, it’s a complete meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. The creamy topping and fresh dill add a delightful finishing touch.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 1 bunch green onions (green feather onion), chopped
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 150 g (5.3 oz) mushrooms, sliced
- 200 g (7 oz) cheese, grated (divided into 3 portions)
- 500 g (1.1 lbs) minced meat
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 bunch dill, chopped
- 1 cucumber, sliced
Directions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes until tender. Let them cool, then peel and slice them.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and rosemary.
- Prepare the Eggs:
- Boil the eggs until hard-boiled. Let them cool, then peel and chop them.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced carrot and onion, and sauté until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Cook the Minced Meat:
- In a separate pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced meat and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of the sautéed vegetables.
- Add a layer of the cooked minced meat.
- Sprinkle with 1/3 of the grated cheese.
- Add the chopped boiled eggs and green onions.
- Add another layer of sliced potatoes.
- Spread the sour cream and mayonnaise mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle with dill and add a layer of sliced cucumber.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Add the remaining cheese and bake for an additional 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional dill if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine or a light beer.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked and cooled before slicing to ensure even layers.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C.
- Carrots and onions add fiber and essential nutrients.
- Mushrooms and minced meat are good sources of protein.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy, eggs, and meat.
- Can be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients used are gluten-free.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
- The layers of vegetables, meat, and cheese create a rich and satisfying flavor.
- It’s versatile and can be adapted to include your favorite ingredients.
Conclusion: This layered potato and meat casserole is a delightful and nourishing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious casserole with your loved ones. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of meat?
- Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
- Make sure to drain the excess moisture from the sautéed vegetables before layering them in the casserole.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
- Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative.
- What type of cheese works best?
- Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses work well in this casserole.
- How can I make it spicier?
- Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapenos to the meat mixture.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
- Yes, it’s great for meal prep. You can portion it out and store in the fridge for easy meals during the week.