This Mozzarella and Potato Roll with Spiced Minced Meat is the kind of dish that makes people gather around the table and ask for seconds. With its beautifully crisped outer layer of potatoes and mozzarella, a hearty, savory meat and pepper filling, and a gooey melted cheese finish, it’s perfect for cozy dinners, holiday feasts, or meal prepping something indulgent yet satisfying.
This dish is not only flavorful—it’s also stunning to serve. The layered potato base turns golden and crisp in the oven, wrapping around a juicy, herb-seasoned beef and pork filling that’s rich with tomato and spiced aromatics. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a meat enthusiast, or just a comfort food connoisseur, this roll delivers on all fronts.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Cuisine: Fusion Comfort Food / European-Inspired
Ingredients
For the base and filling:
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200 g mozzarella (shredded or sliced)
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3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon oil (for greasing and cooking)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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500 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
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1 onion, finely chopped
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½ red bell pepper, chopped
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½ yellow bell pepper, chopped (total 200 g for both)
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60 ml tomato juice
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Green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
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40 g additional mozzarella for topping
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Prepare the potato base
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), using high/low heat if your oven allows (top and bottom heat). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread 200 g of shredded mozzarella evenly to create a rectangular layer. Lay the thin potato slices over the cheese, slightly overlapping each piece to form a solid base. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–22 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are softened and slightly golden.
Cook the meat filling
While the base is baking, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced meat and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned. Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pan. Season with a bit more salt and pepper, and cook for 7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
Stir in the tomato juice and let the mixture simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the juice reduces and slightly thickens. Remove from heat.
Assemble the roll
Once the potato base is out of the oven, spread the prepared meat mixture evenly across the surface. Sprinkle 20–30 g of the reserved mozzarella over the meat.
Using the parchment paper to help, carefully roll the potato and meat layer into a tight log. Seal the edge by pressing gently. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top of the roll, followed by some chopped green onions for a fresh flavor boost.
Final bake
Return the roll to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes at 180°C, again using high/low heat if possible. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is golden and bubbly on top.
Serve and enjoy
Let the roll cool slightly for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Nutritional Information (per serving – based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 470
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Protein: 29g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Fat: 32g
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Saturated Fat: 14g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 480mg
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Calcium: 22% DV
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Iron: 15% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The idea of combining thin potato slices with cheese and meat likely originates from rustic European cuisines where layered vegetable dishes and hearty meat fillings are staples. This modern fusion version takes the idea further—turning it into a roll, almost like a roulade, that’s both impressive and deeply comforting.
It’s grown popular on social media and food blogs thanks to its visual appeal: the melted cheese, crisp potato edges, and juicy filling make it a recipe people love to recreate and share.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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It’s ultra-cheesy and perfectly crispy
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Great for family dinners or entertaining
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Customizable with your favorite meats or veggies
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Gluten-free friendly with zero breadcrumbs or flour
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It’s basically lasagna meets potato gratin in roll form
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Ideal for prep-ahead meals or freezing leftovers
Health Benefits
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Potatoes provide potassium and fiber
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Mozzarella adds calcium and protein
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Tomato juice is rich in lycopene and vitamin C
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Bell peppers offer antioxidants and vitamin A
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Beef and pork supply iron and B-vitamins
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a simple cucumber-yogurt salad
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Serve with a side of garlic green beans or roasted carrots
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Top with sour cream or spicy ketchup for dipping
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Add a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Serve with a warm tomato or mushroom sauce
Cooking Tips
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Use a mandoline to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly
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Don’t skip the parchment paper—it makes rolling much easier
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Let the base cool slightly before rolling to prevent tearing
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Use part-skim mozzarella if you want to reduce fat
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Add an egg to the meat filling for extra moisture and binding
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Refrigerate the roll for 10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts
Variations to Try
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Make it vegetarian by using lentils, mushrooms, or soy mince
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Add spinach or kale to the meat for extra greens
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Use sweet potatoes for a different base flavor
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Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicier filling
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Use cheddar or gouda in place of mozzarella for sharper flavor
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Top with herbed breadcrumbs for extra crunch
Conclusion
This Mozzarella and Potato Roll with Spiced Minced Meat is the definition of comforting, homey food with a little wow factor. It’s the kind of meal that’s hearty, full of flavor, and makes the whole house smell incredible while it’s baking.
The textures are everything: crispy edges, tender potatoes, gooey cheese, and juicy, seasoned meat. Whether you’re making it for a weekend dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to win hearts and satisfy appetites.
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking the second time. You can also freeze after baking.
2. What can I use instead of tomato juice?
Use tomato passata, canned crushed tomatoes, or diluted tomato paste.
3. Can I use ground chicken or turkey?
Absolutely. They work great and lower the fat content.
4. Do I have to use both red and yellow peppers?
Not at all—use what you have or even just one type of bell pepper.
5. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes. Add chili flakes, cayenne, or a chopped hot pepper to the filling.
6. What’s the best type of mozzarella to use?
Shredded low-moisture mozzarella melts evenly and crisps up nicely.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
Sure! Mushrooms, spinach, grated carrots, or zucchini would all work.
8. Can I bake the roll on foil instead of parchment?
It’s possible but parchment is better for even baking and rolling ease.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
10. What’s the best way to reheat it?
Bake at 180°C for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.