This Beef and Potato Bake is a comforting and hearty meal that brings together tender beef and flavorful potatoes in one delicious dish. The blend of spices, including curry and cumin, infuses the beef with rich, aromatic flavors, while the potatoes absorb all the savory goodness, making each bite a delight.
Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal at home, this one-pan recipe is both convenient and satisfying. The optional mozzarella cheese topping adds a melty, cheesy finish that complements the savory beef and potatoes perfectly. Garnish with a sprinkle of rosemary for an added touch of elegance and flavor. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Beef Seasoning:
- 300g beef
- Half an onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 10g (0.7 tbsp) chicken stock powder
- 4g (0.5 tbsp) curry powder
- 2g (0.5 tbsp) cumin powder
- 10g (2 tbsp) chili powder
- 210g canned whole tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Black pepper, to taste
- 200ml water
Potato Seasoning:
- 500g potatoes, cut into chunks
- 18g (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 2g (0.5 tsp) chili powder
- 2 pinches of salt
- 3g (1 tsp) garlic powder (or minced garlic)
Toppings (optional):
- Mozzarella cheese
- Rosemary
Directions:
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the chicken stock powder, curry powder, cumin powder, and chili powder.
- Add the pureed tomatoes, sugar, and black pepper.
- Pour in the water and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the beef is cooked and the flavors are well combined.
Prepare the Potatoes:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the potato chunks with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and garlic powder.
- Mix well to coat the potatoes evenly.
Combine and Cook:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- In the same pan with the beef mixture, add the seasoned potatoes.
- Stir everything together to ensure the potatoes are well coated with the beef seasoning.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Optional Toppings:
- If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with rosemary before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 65 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 4 servings
Tips for Making the Best Beef and Potato Bake
- Use Quality Beef: Choose good-quality beef to ensure tenderness and flavor.
- Pre-Cook Potatoes: Boiling the potatoes before baking can speed up the cooking process and ensure they are perfectly tender.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the beef mixture before baking and adjust the seasonings as needed for your preference.
- Cheese Variation: Try using different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be used in place of rosemary for a different twist.
Additional Tips for a Great Outcome
- Even Coating: Make sure the potatoes are well coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Cover Properly: Ensure the pan is properly covered with foil to prevent drying out during baking.
- Monitor Baking Time: Check the dish in the last few minutes to avoid overcooking and ensure the potatoes are just tender.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble the beef and potato mixture, then freeze in a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Possible Questions About This Recipe
- Can I use ground beef instead of beef chunks?
- Yes, ground beef can be used for a quicker cooking time and a different texture.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- The chili powder adds a mild heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or peas would be great additions to this dish.
- What can I use instead of canned tomatoes?
- Fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce can be used as alternatives.
- Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can cook the beef and potatoes in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
The Beef and Potato Bake is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the best of savory beef and tender potatoes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to dish that brings comfort and joy to your table. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a sprinkle of cheese and herbs for an added touch of deliciousness.