What if you could enjoy a delicious, hearty meal all in one dish? That’s where the Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake comes into play! This comforting recipe combines colorful veggies and savory ground beef, all beautifully baked with melted mozzarella cheese on top. It’s a fantastic way to get your family excited about dinner, whether they’re veggie lovers or meat enthusiasts. Plus, it’s simple enough to make for a busy weeknight!
What You’ll Need for Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delightful bake:
- 3 medium potatoes, grated
- Salt, to taste
- 2 zucchini, grated
- 2 small carrots, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
- 3 eggs
- Pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 4-5 garlic cloves, chopped
- 200 g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
How to Make Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake
Follow these easy steps to whip up your Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake!
- Prepare the Potatoes and Zucchini: Grate the potatoes and sprinkle a little salt on them. Let them sit for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid using a clean towel. Repeat the same process for the grated zucchini.
- Mix the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, zucchini, grated carrots, red bell pepper strips, and chopped parsley. Toss them well to combine.
- Add Egg and Flour: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the flour until the mixture holds together.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into patties.
- Bake the Patties: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the patties on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, until they become golden brown.
- Cook the Beef and Garlic: While the patties are baking, heat a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant, then add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Layer the Bake: Once the patties are golden, take them out of the oven. In a baking dish, layer the baked schnitzels with the cooked beef mixture and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
How to Serve Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake
Serving your Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake is just as fun as making it! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Plating: Place a generous serving on each plate, and consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or yogurt can also add a nice creamy element on the side.
Tips for Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake
- Make Extra: This dish is perfect for leftovers! You can easily double the recipe and enjoy it again the next day.
- Try Different Cheeses: While mozzarella is delicious, experimenting with other cheeses like cheddar or feta can add a nice twist to the flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables you love, such as spinach or mushrooms, to make the bake even healthier and more colorful.
Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
What can I serve with the schnitzel bake?
A fresh green salad, some crusty bread, or even a side of mashed potatoes would complement this dish nicely.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.
Creating a comforting meal like Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake is not just satisfying, it’s a great way to spend time in the kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the layers of flavors and textures! Happy cooking!
Vegetable and Beef Schnitzel Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Grate the potatoes and sprinkle a little salt on them. Let them sit for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid using a clean towel. Repeat the same process for the grated zucchini.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, zucchini, grated carrots, red bell pepper strips, and chopped parsley. Toss them well to combine.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the flour until the mixture holds together.
- Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into patties.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the patties on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, until they become golden brown.
- While the patties are baking, heat a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant, then add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Once the patties are golden, take them out of the oven. In a baking dish, layer the baked schnitzels with the cooked beef mixture and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.