Savor the Flavor: Easy Potato and Ground Meat Dinner Recipe

Introduction

Indulge in the hearty, savory goodness of our Easy Potato and Ground Meat Dinner. This dish is a delightful combination of crispy potatoes, flavorful ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese and black olives. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Follow these detailed steps to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg potatoes (2.2 lbs)
  • 500g ground meat (1.1 lbs)
  • 1 onion
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 400ml tomato pulp (1 2/3 cups)
  • 180ml tomato puree (3/4 cup)
  • Black olives (to taste)
  • Grated cheese (to taste)
  • Salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, garlic powder (to taste)
  • Oil (as needed)

Nutrition Information

  • Serving Size: 1 portion (1/6 of the dish)
  • Number of Servings: 6 portions
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 18g

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices.
    • Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
  2. Heat a little oil in a pan and add the potato slices. Fry them until golden brown.
    • Ensure each slice is well-coated with oil for a crispy texture.
  3. Season the potatoes with salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and garlic powder.
    • Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
  4. Cover the pan and let the potatoes bake for about 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
    • This ensures the potatoes are tender and flavorful.

Layering the Dish

  1. Transfer the fried potatoes to a baking tray and arrange them neatly.
    • Spread them evenly to form the base layer.
  2. Cut the red bell pepper into small pieces.
    • Set aside for the next step.

Sautéing the Vegetables and Meat

  1. In a separate pan, heat a little oil and sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
    • This should take about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped red pepper and cook for approximately 3 minutes.
    • Stir frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Next, add the ground meat to the pan, breaking it up and frying until browned.
    • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Preparing the Sauce

  1. Once the meat is browned, pour in the tomato pulp and tomato puree.
    • Stir well to combine.
  2. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and oregano.
    • Allow it to simmer for at least 10 minutes to develop the flavors.

Assembling and Baking

  1. Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the potatoes in the baking dish.
    • Ensure the sauce covers all the potatoes for even flavor.
  2. Sprinkle grated cheese over the top, followed by black olives and a sprinkle of oregano.
    • The cheese should be evenly distributed for a gooey, melted topping.
  3. Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Keep an eye on the cheese to prevent over-browning.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and serve hot.
    • Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
  2. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors with your favorite side salad or bread.

Tips for the Perfect Potato and Ground Meat Dinner

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh potatoes, vegetables, and cheese make a big difference.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add more or less of the spices as per your preference.
  • Ensure the potatoes are cooked through before adding the sauce. They should be tender but not mushy.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the meat and tomato sauce mixture while simmering.

Conclusion

This Easy Potato and Ground Meat Dinner Recipe is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory ground meat, and rich tomato sauce topped with melted cheese creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Serve it hot and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite. Happy cooking!