Here’s a hearty Potato and Minced Meat Casserole recipe that’s flavorful and comforting:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (or a combination)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Minced Meat:
- In a large pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can add the tomato paste at this stage for extra flavor. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick) so they cook evenly. You can use a mandoline for even slices.
- Season the potato slices lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Spread the cooked minced meat mixture over the potatoes evenly.
- Add a second layer of the remaining potato slices on top.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese:
- Pour the heavy cream (or milk) over the layered potatoes and meat.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, making sure it’s evenly spread.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This casserole is a great one-dish meal perfect for family dinners! You can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
