Potato and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

This hearty Potato and Meatloaf Casserole combines crispy potatoes, savory minced meat, and a rich egg mixture, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a satisfying family meal, this casserole is easy to make and packed with flavor. The layers of fried potatoes, seasoned meat, and eggs come together in a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • Vegetable Oil: For frying
  • Potatoes: 5-6 medium, peeled and diced
  • Minced Meat (beef, pork, or a mix): 500 g (17.6 oz)
  • Onion (chopped): 1 medium
  • Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (for meat) + 1 teaspoon (for eggs)
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: To taste
  • Eggs: 5 large
  • Cheese (grated): 50-60 g (2 oz)

For the Baking Dish:

  • Baking Dish: 1.5 liters / 28 x 11 cm / 11.1″ x 4.5″

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced potatoes. Fry the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are slightly tender. You want the potatoes to develop a crispy exterior without becoming too soft.

Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and set them aside.

2. Cook the Minced Meat

In the same frying pan, heat a little more vegetable oil. Add the 500 g of minced meat to the pan and cook it for about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks.

Once the meat starts to brown, add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and slightly browned.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, crack and beat 5 eggs with 1 teaspoon of salt until the eggs are smooth and well combined.

Pour the beaten eggs over the fried potatoes in the large bowl and mix thoroughly, ensuring that all the potatoes are evenly coated with the egg mixture.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease your 28 x 11 cm (1.5-liter) baking dish with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

To assemble the casserole, start by spreading half of the potato and egg mixture evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.

Next, add the cooked minced meat mixture on top, spreading it out evenly to cover the potato layer. Finally, cover the meat with the remaining potato and egg mixture, smoothing it out to form an even layer.

5. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the 50-60 g of grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and form a golden, crispy topping during baking, adding richness and flavor to the dish.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted and golden, and the egg mixture is fully set. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the casserole is fully cooked.

7. Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This will make it easier to serve.

Cut the casserole into slices and serve warm. This Potato and Meatloaf Casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Protein: 22g

Tips for Success

  • Customize the Meat: You can use a combination of beef, pork, or even chicken for the minced meat, depending on your preference.
  • Add More Veggies: For a healthier twist, feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Cheese Choices: While mozzarella or cheddar works well, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

  • This casserole is a filling meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.
  • It also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Enjoy this Potato and Meatloaf Casserole, a comforting dish full of hearty ingredients, perfect for family dinners or gatherings!