Savory French Meat and Vegetable Casserole

The Savory French Meat and Vegetable Casserole is a delightful blend of hearty ingredients and rich flavors. The combination of tender meat, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese creates a comforting dish that is perfect for any meal. The Greek yogurt sauce with dill and garlic adds a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole, making each bite a harmonious balance of tastes.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or provide a nourishing family dinner, this casserole is a versatile and satisfying choice. Its beautiful presentation, with a golden-brown top and colorful vegetable medley, makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables and herbs to make it your own. Enjoy this dish with a side salad or a crusty baguette for a complete and gratifying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• Spring onion, chopped
• 200 grams cheese, grated
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1/2 red pepper, diced
• 1/2 green pepper, diced
• 600-800 grams mixed pork and beef, ground
• Butter for greasing
• 100 grams Mozzarella cheese, grated
• Pepper mixture to taste
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

For the sauce:

• 200 grams Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Pepper mixture to taste
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and spring onion, and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the diced potatoes, carrots, red pepper, and green pepper to the pan. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the mixed pork and beef to the pan. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper mixture to taste.
6. In a bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the grated cheese. Pour this over the meat and vegetable mixture, stirring to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with chopped tomatoes and grated Mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.

For the sauce:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper mixture. Serve on the side or drizzled over the casserole.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

History and Inspiration

This recipe is inspired by traditional French cuisine, known for its rich flavors and hearty dishes. Casseroles have been a staple in French households for centuries, often utilizing local produce and available meats to create comforting and nourishing meals. This particular recipe brings together a blend of classic French cooking techniques and modern culinary creativity, making it a beloved favorite in many homes around the world.

Cooking with Kids

This casserole recipe is a great way to involve children in the cooking process. They can help with washing and chopping vegetables, grating cheese, and mixing ingredients. Not only does this provide a fun and educational activity, but it also encourages them to develop an appreciation for home-cooked meals and healthy eating habits.