This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Layers of tender potato slices nestled beneath a savory ground beef filling and a blanket of melted cheese create a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. But the true beauty lies in its simplicity. This dish comes together quickly and requires minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
450 g (1 lb) ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp thyme
3 tbsp tomato sauce
220 g (8 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
3 large potatoes, sliced lengthwise
Chives, chopped for garnish
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and thyme.
Stir in the tomato sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat.
Arrange the potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each slice with the ground beef mixture.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat-topped potatoes.
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped chives before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless Elegance: Despite its impressive presentation, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare.
- Flavor Powerhouse: The combination of seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes is a classic comfort food pairing that never disappoints.
- Customization Canvas: Feel free to personalize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties.
- Weeknight Hero: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
Tips and Tricks for Extraordinaire Results:
- Slicing the Potatoes: Slicing the potatoes with even thickness ensures they cook uniformly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent potato slices, but a sharp knife works just as well.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: When browning the ground beef, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. Cook the meat in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning for richer flavor.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning both the ground beef mixture and the potato slices is essential for bringing out their full flavor potential.
- The Power of Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes cleanup a breeze but also prevents the potatoes from sticking.
- Cheese Selection: Shredded mozzarella cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or a combination for a different flavor profile.
- Leftover Love: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Elevate your potato and meat bake by serving it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
- A dollop of sour cream, plain yogurt, or your favorite salsa adds a refreshing touch and complements the savory flavors.
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be sprinkled on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.