Hearty Potato and Minced Meat Casserole

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a hearty delight with our comforting Potato and Minced Meat Casserole! This satisfying dish combines layers of tender potatoes, savory seasoned meat, and melty cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole offers a complete meal in one dish with a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The creamy egg mixture brings everything together while the golden cheese topping creates an irresistible finish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole delivers homestyle goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 5-6 medium potatoes (approximately 800g)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 500g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
• 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• 50ml water
• 8-10 cheese slices (such as gouda or cheddar)
• 3 large eggs
• 125ml milk
• 150g hard cheese (such as cheddar, gruyère, or parmesan), grated
• 1 teaspoon dried garlic or garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Dried oregano to taste
• 3-4 green onions, finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into small, evenly sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). Place them in a medium saucepan, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cook the meat mixture: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add vegetables and seasoning: Stir in the finely chopped bell pepper and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the tomato paste and mix well to incorporate. Pour in the water, then season with salt, black pepper, dried garlic, paprika, and oregano to taste. Stir well and simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Mix in the chopped green onions and remove from heat.
4. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
5. Assemble the casserole: Lightly grease a medium baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches or 23x33cm). Spread half of the cooked potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Layer the cheese slices over the potatoes, covering as much surface as possible. Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly on top of the cheese. Add another layer of cheese slices, followed by the remaining potatoes.
6. Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of oregano until well combined.
7. Finish the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and meat, allowing it to seep into the layers. Sprinkle the grated hard cheese over the top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the egg mixture is set.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.

Nutritional Information and Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8 portions

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg (varies based on salt added)

Cooking Tips and Tricks

1. Potato selection: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Golds for the best texture in this casserole.
2. Don’t overcook the potatoes: They should be tender but still hold their shape, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Drain meat if necessary: If your minced meat releases a lot of fat during cooking, consider draining some of it before adding other ingredients for a lighter dish.
4. Cheese options: Pre-sliced cheese works well for the inner layers, while freshly grated cheese melts more evenly on top. Avoid pre-shredded cheese which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.
5. Seasoning to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings according to your preference. This dish benefits from generous seasoning.
6. Rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes for neater serving.
7. Uniform layers: Try to create even layers for consistent cooking and better presentation when serving.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Meat options: While beef is traditional, try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or a mixture of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
2. Add mushrooms: Sauté 200g of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor boost.
3. Vegetable additions: Include 1 cup of frozen peas or corn added to the meat mixture for added color and nutrition.
4. Herb variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can replace or complement the oregano.
5. Dairy alternatives: For a richer sauce, substitute half the milk with cream. For a lighter version, use all milk or a non-dairy milk alternative.
6. Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
7. Make it crispy: Top with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated cheese mixed with a little olive oil for an extra crunchy topping.

Common FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered. When ready to cook, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the refrigerator.

Can I freeze this potato and meat casserole?

This casserole freezes well either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble but do not add the egg mixture or top cheese. Add these fresh before baking. If freezing after baking, cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or pickled vegetables make excellent accompaniments to this hearty dish.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese on top is golden brown, the egg mixture is set (not liquid), and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with 2 cups of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or a meat substitute like lentils or textured vegetable protein.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until hot. For larger portions, reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
3. Freezing: Wrap cooled portions tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.
5. Portion control: Consider making the recipe in individual ramekins or smaller baking dishes for easier portion control and storage.
6. Meal prep idea: Prepare the meat mixture and cook the potatoes in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake when ready to serve for a quicker weeknight meal.

This Potato and Minced Meat Casserole embodies comfort food at its finest – hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. The combination of tender potatoes, savory seasoned meat, and melty cheese creates a dish that satisfies the whole family. With its straightforward preparation and crowd-pleasing results, this casserole is sure to become a regular feature on your dining table, whether for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.