The Rustic Potato and Beef Bake is a comforting dish that brings the simple pleasures of hearty, home-cooked meals right to your table. It layers savory ground beef, tender slices of potato, and juicy mushrooms, all topped with a rich layer of melted mozzarella. This casserole not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart with its homestyle goodness.
Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh and creamy Spring Salad, balancing the richness of the bake. It’s an ideal meal for those busy weeknights where you want something satisfying yet simple to prepare. Serve it hot, garnished with green onions for a touch of freshness and enjoy a meal that feels like a hug in a dish.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 1.2 kg (2 lb 10 oz) potatoes, thinly sliced
- 450 g (16 oz) ground beef
- 4 eggs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 200 g (7 oz) champignons (mushrooms), sliced
- 150 ml (5.3 fl oz) beef broth
- 150 g (5.3 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried garlic
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- For the Spring Salad:
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 purple onion, thinly sliced
- 1 sprig of green onion, chopped
- 150 g (5.3 oz) Greek yogurt
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- For the Casserole:
- Directions:
- Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add ground beef, cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried garlic.
- In a greased baking dish, layer sliced potatoes, cooked beef, mushrooms, and another layer of potatoes. Whisk eggs with beef broth and pour over. Top with mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes.
- Spring Salad:
- Mix cucumber, tomatoes, purple onion, and green onion. Combine Greek yogurt with garlic, salt, and pepper for dressing. Toss salad with dressing and sprinkle with paprika.
- Casserole:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 65 minutes | Kcal: 650 | Servings: 4
Why This Recipe Works:
- Simplicity: This recipe involves straightforward ingredients and simple steps, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Comfort Food: It combines classic ingredients in a hearty and satisfying way.
- Versatility: You can easily modify it by adding different vegetables, spices, or cheeses to suit your taste or accommodate what you have on hand.
Ingredient Highlights:
- Potatoes: The base of the casserole, providing a soft texture that complements the beef beautifully.
- Ground Beef: Offers rich, meaty flavor and makes the dish substantial and protein-rich.
- Champignons: These mushrooms add an earthy flavor and a tender bite, enhancing the overall savoriness of the dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty topping that pulls all the layers together.
Nutritional Benefits: This casserole is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. Ground beef contributes high-quality protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc. The mushrooms provide antioxidants and fiber, while the mozzarella offers calcium for bone health.
Cooking Tips:
- Potato Preparation: Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible for an even cook throughout the casserole.
- Layering: Ensure each layer is evenly spread for a consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
- Baking: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helps the potatoes cook through without burning the top.
Serving Suggestions: This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a light side salad, such as the included Spring Salad, to add freshness and balance the richness. Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage: The Rustic Potato and Ground Beef Bake can be assembled a day ahead and kept refrigerated until ready to bake, making it perfect for planning ahead. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion: The Rustic Potato and Ground Beef Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. It’s a dish that promises to deliver smiles and contentment with every forkful, making it a worthy addition to your cooking repertoire.
