There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade casserole. It’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Today, I’m sharing a recipe for a Savory Potato and Meat Casserole that combines the heartiness of mashed potatoes with the rich flavors of seasoned meat, all under a deliciously melted cheese topping. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you crave something filling yet utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 5 medium-sized potatoes
- Salt
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper
- Vegetable oil
- 450g minced meat (beef or any preferred meat)
- Paprika
- Black pepper
- 1 tomato
- 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 clove of garlic
- 30g butter
- Fresh dill
- 100g cheese (grated)
- Parsley (for garnish)
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, then drain and mash with butter and fresh dill.
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet, heat some oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the bell pepper and minced meat, cooking until browned. Season with paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the chopped tomato and tomato paste, cooking until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, layer the mashed potatoes, then make wells and fill with grated cheese and the meat mixture. Top with more cheese.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Bake the casserole for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Main Dish: Serve hot as the centerpiece of a cozy family dinner. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
- For Larger Gatherings: This casserole scales up beautifully for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a filling option that’s easy to serve.
- As Leftovers: Enjoy the casserole the next day; it reheats well and even tastes better as the flavors meld overnight.
Health Benefits:
- Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, which are essential for heart health and energy.
- Lean Meat provides high-quality protein and iron, which are crucial for muscle repair and overall health.
- Tomatoes and bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and skin integrity.
Dietary Overview:
1. Gluten-Free:
- This recipe can be considered gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based products like regular flour or bread. However, always check the labels of ingredients like tomato paste and spices, as some brands might include additives that contain gluten.
2. Nut-Free:
- This dish is naturally nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
3. Contains Dairy:
- The recipe includes butter and cheese. For a dairy-free version, you could substitute these with plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives.
4. Contains Meat:
- The casserole uses minced meat, which provides a high source of protein. You can opt for lean meats like turkey or chicken for a lower-fat option, or use plant-based ground meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Components:
- Proteins: The minced meat is a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Carbohydrates: Potatoes are the primary source of carbohydrates in this dish, providing energy and fiber.
- Fats: The recipe contains butter and cheese, contributing to the fat content. Using reduced-fat cheese and less butter can decrease the overall fat intake.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes and tomatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and other essential micronutrients. Bell peppers enhance the vitamin C and A content, which are important for immune health and vision.
Caloric Information:
The caloric value of the casserole will depend on the specific amounts and types of ingredients used, particularly the type of meat and cheese. However, a rough estimate for a serving size of approximately one cup (240 ml) of this casserole might range between 300 to 400 calories. Adjusting the amount of cheese and butter or substituting with leaner meat can alter the calorie count significantly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Savory Potato and Meat Casserole recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, loved for its:
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy potatoes, savory meat, and melted cheese is classic and universally appealing.
- Ease of Preparation: Although it looks impressive, this casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Versatility: Easily adaptable, you can tweak this recipe to use up whatever you have on hand, be it different types of meat or vegetables.
Conclusion:
The Savory Potato and Meat Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or simply when you need a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a dish. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
