This Potato and Meat Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Layers of seasoned potatoes, savory minced meat, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese come together to create a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
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Total Time: 60 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings
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Cuisine: Comfort Food, Hearty Meals
Full List of Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
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1 onion, chopped
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 carrot, peeled and grated
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8.8 ounces (200g) minced meat
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Salt to taste
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Paprika to taste
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Ground black pepper to taste
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1 fresh red pepper, chopped
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1 tomato, chopped
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2 eggs
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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Fresh green onions, chopped
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3.5 ounces (100g) cheese, grated (for topping)
For Frying:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 egg (for coating)
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4 slices of cheese (for layering)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel and slice the 2 potatoes into thin rounds. Set them aside in a bowl of water to prevent browning. Once ready, drain the water and set the potatoes aside to dry.
2. Cook the Onions:
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the Carrot:
Add the grated carrot to the pan with the onions. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to blend.
4. Cook the Minced Meat:
Add the 200g minced meat to the pan. Season with salt, paprika, and ground black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks until browned and fully cooked.
5. Add Vegetables:
Once the meat is browned, add the chopped fresh red pepper and chopped tomato to the pan. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
6. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and a pinch of salt, paprika, and ground black pepper. This mixture will help bind everything together and create a creamy texture for the casserole.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Layer the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Top with the cooked meat and vegetable mixture. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring it covers the filling completely.
8. Add Cheese and Egg Layer:
Beat 1 egg and brush it over the top of the casserole. Add 4 slices of cheese on top and then sprinkle 100g of grated cheese over everything. This will give the casserole a cheesy, golden crust.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh green onions for an added burst of freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Fat: 20g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 5g
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Protein: 15g
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Sodium: 500mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This Potato and Meat Casserole draws inspiration from classic comfort foods. Casseroles have long been a staple in many cultures, combining various ingredients in one dish to create a satisfying and hearty meal. This particular recipe is popular in Eastern European and Western kitchens where potatoes and meats are commonly used to make filling, budget-friendly meals.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Comforting and Hearty: The combination of creamy potatoes, savory meat, and gooey cheese makes this casserole an ultimate comfort food.
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Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Customizable: You can adjust the vegetables or add your favorite herbs to make the recipe your own.
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Family-Friendly: This casserole is great for feeding a crowd or a large family, and it’s a dish that kids will enjoy too.
Health Benefits
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Potatoes: High in potassium and vitamin C, potatoes help with digestion and heart health.
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Carrots and Red Peppers: Both vegetables are packed with vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining healthy skin and immune function.
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Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, which is beneficial for bone health and muscle maintenance.
Serving Suggestions
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With a Side Salad: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad for added crunch and nutrition.
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With Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
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For a Hearty Meal: Enjoy the casserole with crusty bread or garlic bread for extra comfort.
Cooking Tips
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Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, feel free to add them to the veggie mixture for added flavor.
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Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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Substitute Cheese: If you prefer a stronger flavor, swap the mozzarella for a sharp cheddar or Gouda.
Variations to Try
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Add Meat: You can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken to the filling for a heartier version.
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Vegan Version: Substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives and the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
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Add Spices: For extra flavor, sprinkle in some cumin, curry powder, or chili flakes for a spicier twist.
Conclusion
This Potato and Meat Casserole with cheese and vegetables is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. It’s easy to make, customizable, and will quickly become a family favorite. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to satisfy any appetite!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of potato, but waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold will hold their shape better in this casserole.
2. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey would work just as well and provide a lighter alternative.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just make sure to bake it longer if it’s cold from the fridge.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
6. How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour alternative and make sure your cheese is gluten-free.
7. Can I substitute the cornstarch with something else?
You can use flour or arrowroot powder as a substitute for cornstarch.
8. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or any other vegetables of your choice.
9. Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days.
10. Can I add bacon or sausage to the casserole?
Yes, crumbled bacon or sausage would add a delicious flavor to the casserole. Just cook them first before adding to the filling.