Meat Patties on a Potato Bed

This unique and delicious take on traditional meat patties, baked over a bed of seasoned potatoes, is a one-pan wonder perfect for any family meal. Combining juicy beef and pork patties with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes and a flavorful mayonnaise-based topping, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With no need to fry the patties or boil the potatoes, youโ€™ll save time in the kitchen while still serving up a hearty, homemade meal thatโ€™s sure to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Meat Patties:

  • Beef: 250 g
  • Pork: 250 g
  • Bread: 100 g (soaked in water or milk and then squeezed out)
  • Onion: 300 g (about 2 medium onions, finely chopped)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
  • Salt: 1 tsp
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
  • Dried Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
  • Paprika: 2 tsp

For the Potato Bed:

  • Potatoes: 500 g (about 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced)
  • Mayonnaise: 100 g (about 1/2 cup)
  • Salt: To taste
  • Paprika: 1 tsp (optional, for added flavor and color)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Patties

  1. Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, combine 250 g of beef, 250 g of pork, the soaked and squeezed bread, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Form the Patties: Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into round patties, about the size of your palm. You should be able to make around 8-10 patties, depending on their size.
  3. Set Aside: Place the formed patties on a plate and set them aside while preparing the potato layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Bed

  1. Slice the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. You want the slices to be about 1/4-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly with the patties.
  2. Season the Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with a pinch of salt and paprika to taste. This will enhance the flavor and color of the potato bed.
  3. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer in a greased baking dish. Ensure the dish is large enough to hold both the potatoes and the patties.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

  1. Place Patties on Potatoes: Once the potatoes are evenly layered in the dish, place the meat patties on top of the potato slices. Leave a little space between each patty to allow for even cooking.
  2. Top with Mayonnaise: Using a spoon, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over each patty and a little over the potatoes. This will help the dish remain moist and add a creamy richness as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF).
  2. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the patties are fully cooked through. The top of the patties should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
  3. Rest Before Serving: Once the dish is baked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Cooking Tips

  • Add Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the patties and potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices in the patties according to your taste preferences. You can add herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh, aromatic touch.
  • Use a Mandoline: To ensure your potato slices are evenly thin, consider using a mandoline slicer. Even slices ensure the potatoes cook evenly alongside the patties.
  • Alternative Meat: You can substitute the beef and pork with ground chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian meat alternative for a lighter version.

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the patties and potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the patties may lose some of their crispiness.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 450-500 kcal
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg

FAQs

1. Can I use only beef or only pork?

Yes, you can use just one type of meat if preferred. Using a mix of beef and pork, however, adds more flavor and moisture to the patties.

2. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms to the potato bed for extra vegetables and flavor.

3. Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, the patties can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish just before baking.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A side of sour cream or a tangy tomato sauce also complements the rich flavors of the patties and potatoes.


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Conclusion

This delicious and hearty dish combines juicy meat patties and perfectly seasoned potatoes in a unique and easy-to-prepare meal. Whether youโ€™re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, itโ€™s sure to impress everyone at the table. The rich flavors of beef and pork, combined with the creamy mayonnaise topping and tender potatoes, make for a satisfying, comforting meal thatโ€™s full of flavor. Enjoy!