This savory pumpkin and minced meat bake is a delicious, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With layers of pumpkin, seasoned minced meat, and a creamy topping, it’s both nutritious and comforting. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, and it’s easy to prepare. Let’s get started!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 100 ml milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste)
- 800 g pumpkin, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 350 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 25 g honey
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 30 ml olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Lemon juice, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for greasing
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). - Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Set aside. - Cook the Pumpkin:
In a baking dish, arrange the sliced pumpkin. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and black pepper, and add one clove of minced garlic. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes until tender. - Cook the Minced Meat:
In a skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the second clove of minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the minced meat, paprika, diced tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. - Combine and Layer:
After the pumpkin is done baking, remove it from the oven. Layer the cooked minced meat mixture over the pumpkin in the baking dish. - Add Cheese and Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. - Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix honey, mustard, olive oil, thyme, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. - Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the baked dish before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a main dish.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Cooking Tips:
- You can substitute pumpkin with butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
- Feel free to add more vegetables to the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, and high in fiber.
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients.
- Minced Meat: Good source of protein and iron.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Nut-Free: Yes
- Can be made Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: A delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors.
- Hearty: Filling enough for a satisfying meal.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients.
Conclusion:
Thank you for trying our savory pumpkin and minced meat bake! This dish is not only hearty and delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a family meal or gathering, it brings together the warmth of comfort food with a healthy twist. We’d love to hear your feedback and any variations you try—happy cooking!